Rosario Thomas, Southern Union State Community College’s (SUSCC) Veterans Specialist, was voted as Military Friendly’s Alabama’s Veteran of the Year. The announcement came Friday, June 13, after primary voting closed on Memorial Day to determined state-level winners.
According to Military Friendly’s website, The Veteran of the Year® program recognizes veterans of strong character who have made a positive impact either while in uniform or after service. Criteria in uniform includes exemplary combat or non-combat military service. Criteria after service includes community involvement, professional success, overcoming challenges or other noteworthy contributions to society.
“I think all veterans are Veterans of the Year for the State of Alabama,” said Thomas.
As a former SUSCC student who relied on the resources of the Student Veterans Resource Center (SVRC), Thomas, who was highlighted by the Alabama Community College System in a 2019 video, returned to help guide veterans who have chosen to return to school. More than 350 students at Southern Union are veterans or military dependents, and as the Veterans Specialist, Thomas is their go-to person. He walks them through their education benefits and explains how to access and use them.
“For most veterans, all we need is somebody that listens to us,” said Thomas. “I give them an ear. I give them give little guidance to help them be more successful.”
Thomas now represents Alabama for the National Veteran of the Year award. Voting will remain open now through July 4. National winners will be announced September 11. To vote, visit https://viqtory.us.launchpad6.com/voy-2025.