Student Veterans of America to get New Leader

By Debbie Gregory.

After three years of stellar leadership, Michael Dakduk is stepping down as Executive Director of the Student Veterans of America (SVA). Military Connection would like to thank Mr. Dakduk for his dedication in serving Student Veterans nationwide.

Student Veterans are a valuable resource for our nation. The eventual employment of today’s Veterans will play a major factor in the future of America. Therefore, their education should be seen as a critical investment. As the only nonprofit organization exclusively dedicated to Veterans in higher education, the SVA’s role is vital to the long-term success of student veterans.

The SVA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit coalition, with a  mission to provide Student Veterans with the “resources, support & advocacy needed to succeed in higher education and following graduation.” The organization’s focus is on peer-to-peer support through its local chapters. This support network has proven to be beneficial for student Vets, and has had a positive effect on their academic success.

During his tenure, Dakduk helped to establish the SVA as a force in the community of higher education. The SVA, which could only be found at 20 schools in 2008, is now on over 850 campuses, spanning all 50 states, championing military Veterans and their family members who are attending institutions of higher learning. With over 26,000 members, the SVA has become one of the leading connection and support networks for Student Veterans.

Replacing Dakduk will be D. Wayne Robinson. Robinson is a former Command Sergeant Major of the U.S. Army, with years of military leadership. He has an MBA from the Booth School of Business at the University of Chicago, and has previously served as partner and head of new business development at the Wall Street investment firm, Drexel Hamilton Investment Partners.

While it is sad to see Dakduk go, Military Connection is excited to see what Robinson can do for the Student Veteran community. We look forward to the continuing leadership and advocacy from the SVA that we came to know under Dakduk; and welcome the addition of Robinson’s experience and knowledge to the student Veteran network.