BGSU alumnus named 2026 Veteran of the Year for Higher Education

After 12 years of military service, Bryan Bills ’21, ’24 is earning national recognition for his commitment to supporting student veterans and making higher education more accessible

Initially recognized as Ohio’s Veteran of the Year by “Military Friendly,” Bowling Green State University alumnus Bryan Bills ‘21, ‘24 advanced through the national selection process and has been named 2026 Veteran of the Year for Higher Education.

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 in 2021, Bills remained at Bowling Green to earn his MBA.

“It was an honor even to be nominated, so my hope now is that the increased visibility will encourage others to pursue advanced degrees,” Bills said. “Student veterans' voices are encouraged and need to be heard. This starts with the feeling that higher education is attainable and a welcoming environment for people from all professions and walks of life.”

BGSU has been ranked No. 1 in the Midwest for veterans and active military students for five consecutive years by “Military Times.” Bills helped make that success possible by serving as the military program coordinator in the Office of Nontraditional and Military Student Services for two-and-a-half years. In his role, he provided comprehensive advising to military students and helped them understand their military benefits and transition to BGSU.

“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 national Veteran of the Year for Higher Education 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.

“I want to empower the next generation and cohort of military students to excel,” Bills said. “There is a reason that BGSU is a top-rated school for military students, and it starts with the staff and students of the Office of Nontraditional and Military Student Services. The time and effort put into every military student is a marvel. Without them, I would not be in the position that I am in.”