Dr. Michael Brantley of Chula Vista, California, earned a Master of Science in Management in 2016. He shares, “Hello, I am now retired from the Navy, but I’d just like to share my awesome experience while attending Excelsior (College at the time) for my Master of Science in Management program in 2016. I was due to retire in 2018 and I was looking for a graduate program to help leverage my transition into the private sector and Excelsior aligned perfectly! Attending the master’s program was crucial in my decision to later pursue a career in higher education and after, to complete my doctorate degree. The staff and faculty were awesome, and I always recommend Excelsior University to service members and veterans that I speak with! Juggling being a father, an active-duty service member, and pursuing a master’s degree was tough, but Excelsior University made the process so much easier!”

Mark Stricklett of Danielsville, Georgia, earned a Bachelor of Science in 1997. He shares, “I wrapped up my BS at Regents College, and went on for my MBA at another school. It led to many executive and leadership positions over the years. I used my online education background to begin an adjunct/associate teaching career that has led me to teaching for three online universities and one on-ground school during the past 10 years.”

Nhi Ho of Dothan, Alabama, earned a Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering Technology in 2023. She shares, “I wanted to take a moment to share a glimpse of my journey and my aspirations with you all. It is a journey that has been filled with twists, turns, and unexpected discoveries. My academic journey began in nursing school, driven by an unwavering passion for health care. It was a field where I saw the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, and I was eager to contribute to the well-being of others. However, life has a way of surprising us, and along the way, my interests evolved. I found myself drawn to the complexities of nuclear science and the profound impact it has on our energy future. This fascination led me to make a significant decision—to change my major to nuclear engineering. Navigating this transition while balancing full-time work as a health care professional and pursuing a full-time education in a completely different field has been no small feat. It meant late nights filled with study sessions, the delicate balancing act of meeting the demands of two worlds and pushing my intellectual boundaries further than I had ever imagined. Undoubtedly, this journey has presented its challenges, but it has also been remarkably rewarding. It has taught me resilience, determination, and the power of unwavering commitment to educational and career goals. As I move forward in my pursuit of excellence in nuclear engineering, I am excited about the possibilities and the opportunity to contribute to a field that plays a pivotal role in shaping our energy landscape. I am grateful for the support and encouragement of those around me, and I look forward to what the future holds. Thank you for being a part of my journey, and I cannot wait to share the next chapters of this adventure with you all.”

Zoltan Kiraly of Ringwood, New Jersey, earned a Master of Business Administration degree in 2015. In 2023, Zoltan ran a successful campaign for a seat on the Council of the borough of Ringwood, New Jersey.  He was sworn into office on Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024, for a four-year term. He looks forward to serving his community as an elected official.

 

George “Matt” Simmons of Palmetto, Florida, earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in 1989. George ‘Matt’ Simmons, class of 1989, has published and released “Find Your Hidden Treasure Chest,” a wealth building and retirement planning book aimed at helping the half of American households with no retirement savings. The book makes saving money easier by removing the sacrifice in lifestyle or take-home pay that is typically needed. Matt completed his degree with Excelsior in 1989 while spending seven years worldwide in the U.S. Navy onboard two aircraft carriers. He subsequently spent close to 30 years in the surgical device field and has successfully owned and sold one small company.  He currently lives in south Florida while running his second small business. George credits his degree with Excelsior as absolutely crucial to his career and accomplishments. He and his wife Carol have three successful adult children living in the southeast United States.

 

Gregory Prickett of Crowley, Texas, earned an Associate of Science in Political Science and Bachelor of Science in 1986 and 1996. They share, “I worked as police officer and sergeant in Texas, retiring in 2010. I then obtained my JD at Texas A&M in 2014, and practiced law in Tarrant County, Texas. I was named Lawyer of the Year at Imhoff & Associates, a nationwide criminal defense firm. I am also listed as Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch for 2023-2024. I also served in the Army National Guard, and Air National Guard, retiring in 1999 as a captain. Without Regents College, I would not be where I am today.”

Gina Cronrath of Richland, Washington, earned an MSN in 2017. She shares, “I also earned my BSN from Excelsior (2013) after already having my ADN degree from a community college in Washington state in 1979.  I was able to earn more after getting my BSN and with my MSN was able to teach in Washington State University’s Nursing Program for five years before retiring in 2023.”

Nathan Clark of Auburn, Alabama, earned a BS in Liberal Arts in 2015. He shares, “After retiring from the Army after 20 years of service, I was hired as the human resources director at the East Alabama Mental Health Center in Opelika, Alabama.”

Brady McNulty of Roseburg, Oregon, earned a Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering Technology in 2011. Dr. Brady McNulty was elected a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, recognizing his study of and contribution to Scottish culture. Founded in 1780 and incorporated by Royal Charter in 1783 the Society’s purpose is “to investigate both antiquities and natural and civil history in general, with the intention that the talents of mankind should be cultivated and that the study of natural and useful sciences should be promoted.

 

Daryl Taylor-Hazel of Clermont, Florida, earned a Bachelor of Science in English (literature) in 1981. He shares, “I have been a writer, director, and performer for the majority of my life. When I decided that it was time to make a change, I was able to secure my teaching license in Florida. I began by teaching English. I added Music and Drama licenses soon after and am retiring this year having taught for 12 years. I will continue creating and performing in my retirement.”

Peter Panruk of Palmer, Alaska, earned a Bachelor of Science in Health Science with a focus in Public Health in 2017. He shares, “Having earned a degree in Public Health from Excelsior, I came prepared to be working in the non-clinical medical field where coordination between myself and other health professionals is consistent. I’m very grateful for Excelsior and appreciate their dedication to educate and support working adults.”

 

Marie Emmanuel of Brooklyn, New York, earned an Associate of Science in Nursing in 2018. She shares, “I want to say thank you to Excelsior University.”