Rico Nelson of Columbus, Georgia, earned a Bachelor of Science in Business in 2022. He shares, “My story is a typical one, characterized by aspirations of selfless service. A value that has been a cornerstone of my life for as long as I can remember.

I firmly believe in having a purpose. Occasionally, that purpose is to selflessly give of oneself. My purpose was the well-being of my family and the defense of my country. After 20 years of service, I found it challenging to rediscover that purpose. Although retirement was well earned and relaxing, it wasn’t quite for me just yet.

After a brief hiatus of approximately four months, I revisited my Army tough box and retrieved my “I Love Me” book. I meticulously reviewed my documents to identify the most distinguished awards and citations with the intent to translate the military jargon into more comprehensible terms for future employment in the civilian sector.

Upon reviewing my documents and evaluations, I finalized my curriculum vitae (CV), which effectively conveyed high executive-level performance.

I successfully managed personnel, time, and government funds, all while minimizing equipment costs. I met all annual training requirements and managed resiliency programs. I maintained comprehensive company records, ensuring no accounts incurred delinquency. Furthermore, I cultivated a positive work environment devoid of discriminatory practices by implementing unique equal opportunity standards.

I utilized effective communication skills to narrow language barriers between foreign partners while serving abroad, which optimized workforce performance, resulting in shared goals being set and achieved. All of this during a career that spanned two decades, across three continents, and in some of the most austere living conditions.

This is the resume I submitted through USA Jobs. It took some time, but I was offered a position back in government service. Not on the front lines, or anything that required me to brandish a weapon. That skillset was not listed, and for good reason. Tinnitus has consistently hummed in my ear for several years now.

The interview with the agency went well. Once I accepted the job offer, I’ve received the best training from the best-qualified instructors, and this position kind of places me back on the front lines in a sense.

Upon successfully completing the requisite training and obtaining the necessary certifications, I was officially sworn in as a federal agent. I still find it to have been an honor to be sworn in as a federal officer, particularly considering the extensive time I dedicated on the enlisted side. I would often jest with my lieutenants about their age and lack of facial hair, remarking, ‘You cannot spell lost without the “L.T.”‘

I am not a United States Army officer; rather, I am an officer serving with the Transportation Security Administration.

As a Transportation Security Officer (TSO), I find myself in a unique position, dedicating myself to a cause that prioritizes the safety of the nation’s transportation system, passengers, and commerce.”

Marvin Williams of Pooler, Georgia, earned a Master of Science in Liberal Arts in 2005. He shares, “I completed my dissertation, “Do You See What I Hear?: The Effects of Musical Harmony on Cultural Perception and Recognition,” for my PhD from the Graduate School of Leadership and Change of Antioch University.

I currently serve as a member of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, the largest volunteer service and supplemental force to the Coast Guard. In my role as an auxiliarist, I have previously served as the flotilla and division diversity officer, attaining the National Commodore (NACO) 3-Star Award multiple times. For fun, I am also pursuing a civilian helicopter pilot license to further support the humanitarian objectives of the USCG. In addition, I am completing studies in law in pursuit of a Juris Doctor, with the goal to serve as an immigration, human rights, and tribal law advocate.

Whether as an author, lawyer, lecturer, or musician, to become as complete an advocate for the underrepresented and those who are struggling to find their place is the ultimate vision for my pursuits.”

Edward Samaro of Winter Haven, Florida, earned a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts in 1991. He shares, “I’m pleased to announce the publishing of my book, The Things I Teach My Patients. After graduating from Excelsior, I went on to complete a master’s degree in counseling psychology and have been practicing for 30 years in the state of Florida.”

Carolyn J. Mcdonald of Naples, Florida, earned a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts in 1989. She shares, “I really appreciate my degree. I had the courage to be a substitute teacher in Watertown, New York, when we lived there.”

Shreyas Bhatnagar of Houston, Texas, earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology in 2016 and was recently promoted to acting chief in the Office of Project Delivery at the Federal Railroad Administration.

Deljina Weber of New Milford, Connecticut, earned an Associates in Applied Science in Nursing in 2026. She shares, “My experience at Excelsior University was shaped by an extraordinary level of understanding and compassion. As a wife, a mom with young children, a working nurse, and a person navigating the realities of life and mental health, I felt genuinely seen, supported, and valued. Every instructor I encountered left a meaningful impact on me, and I will carry the lessons they taught into the world with pride and purpose. Excelsior’s flexibility allowed me to pursue my degree without sacrificing my family, and for that I am profoundly grateful. My two sons watched me grind, struggle, and refuse to give up, and this achievement has reshaped the future of our family in ways that will be felt for generations. I wholeheartedly recommend Excelsior University. If you are on the fence, just take the step — your future self will thank you.”

John Hill of Sparta, New Jersey, earned an Associate in Applied Science in Nursing in 2014. He shares, “I bring extensive qualifications and experience that make me a strong asset in nursing, particularly in long-term care. I hold a master’s degree in nursing with a concentration in executive leadership, as well as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) focused on healthcare leadership. My advanced education reflects not only my commitment to personal and professional growth, but also my dedication to improving the quality of care provided to vulnerable populations. I am driven to ensure that long-term care organizations have the leadership necessary to adapt and thrive in an increasingly complex healthcare environment.

My managerial journey began in 2014 after earning my associate degree through Excelsior. Since then, I have consistently taken on leadership roles that emphasize operational excellence and regulatory compliance. My tenure as director of nursing in skilled nursing facilities provided a strong foundation for my subsequent roles as corporate director of nursing at Polaris Healthcare and now as part of Knights Care’s executive team. This progression has strengthened my understanding of organizational dynamics and prepared me to navigate the complexities of today’s healthcare systems.

One of my key achievements was at Vista On 5th, where I led a comprehensive analysis and implemented a strategic execution plan that revitalized facility operations. Successfully integrating this plan into daily practice demonstrated my ability to create and sustain meaningful improvements in both patient care and organizational performance. My work reflects expertise in organizational structure, policy development, and long-term sustainability strategies—skills that are essential in today’s healthcare landscape.

Beyond my leadership roles, I am deeply committed to promoting healthy aging in safe and supportive environments. I recognize the growing demand for long-term care services and the importance of strengthening these systems to meet future needs. Through my work, I strive to enhance not only individual patient outcomes but also the overall health and well-being of the communities I serve.”

James Norton of Menands, New York, earned a Master of Science in Criminal Justice in 2018. He shares, “I recently accepted a role with the National Alliance on Mental Illness as the government and community affairs manager. I use my degree in criminal justice and emergency services to help advance the way mental health and addiction are addressed by police, EMS, and ERs around the state. I also work daily with legislators to address root causes and improve care for those with mental health concerns.”