Bowling Green State University has been ranked No. 1 in the Midwest for veterans and active military students for five consecutive years. Now, a two-time alumnus and current doctoral student, Bryan Bills '21, '24, is being recognized as "Ohio's Veteran of the Year" by Military Friendly.

Before enrolling at BGSU, Bills served 12 years in the Ohio Army National Guard, including two overseas deployments and multiple activations throughout the United States. As a student, he enrolled in the management and technology program, which is designed for military members with technical and applied skills. After earning his bachelor's degree, Bills went on to earn his MBA.

"My time at BGSU was nothing short of incredible and fulfilling between my education, rugby and the Office of Nontraditional and Military Student Services," Bills said. "BGSU has been highly ranked by Military Times for years and has had several Leadership Fellows recognized by the National Veterans Leadership Foundation. Now, I hope to be a small part of that legacy and further cement BGSU as a military-friendly campus."

The Veteran of the Year program recognizes veterans of strong character who have made a positive impact during military service or afterward. Criteria in uniform include exemplary combat or non-combat military service. After-service criteria include community involvement, professional success, overcoming challenges or other noteworthy contributions to society.

As Ohio's Veteran of the Year, Bills was recognized for his volunteer efforts with numerous organizations that help veterans find gainful employment, edit resumes and apply for higher education. Serving veterans through advocacy, mentorship and scholarship, Bills helps them navigate benefits offered by organizations, nonprofits and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

"I have always done what I thought I had to do – take care of my fellow service members and veterans," Bills said. "Being part of something bigger than myself was the reason I enlisted in the military, and advocating and helping veterans is my chance to continue to serve."

While at BGSU, Bills served as the military program coordinator in the Office of Nontraditional and Military Student Services for two and a half years, providing comprehensive advising to military students and helping them understand their military benefits and transition to BGSU.

"Helping veterans and their families was similar to being a noncommissioned officer (NCO)," Bills said. "There was a ton of coaching and developing that had to occur while being an NCO. Your soldiers looked to you for advice on next steps in life and work choices. Being an advocate in the military office at BGSU gave me the chance to continue that deeply meaningful work."

Bills made an impact on every veteran that walked into the Office of Nontraditional and Military Student Services, something not only appreciated by fellow veterans, but also by the University.

"Bryan is a rare individual whose commitment to serving others is genuine and unwavering," said Barbara Henry, Ph.D., assistant vice president of the Office of Nontraditional and Military Student Services. "His humility, compassion and empathy make him a natural leader and enable him to connect with and support veterans in meaningful ways.

"His influence created a strong foundation at BGSU that continues to benefit veterans and military-connected students today. The continued success of the program reflects the lasting legacy he helped establish, and we look forward to building on that work for years to come."

Humbled and honored to receive the state award, Bills plans to continue advocating for and helping his fellow veterans through his involvement in veteran organizations. As he continues his pursuit of a doctoral degree in leadership studies at BGSU, he plans to focus his thesis on student veterans and the ever-changing obstacles they face.

Bills now has the opportunity to be named National Veteran of the Year. Voting is open at www.militaryfriendly.com. 

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