FROM STAFF REPORTS

University of Montevallo Office of Veteran and Military Affairs Coordinator Traci Crenshaw, a U.S. Navy veteran, has been honored by the Birmingham Business Journal for the impact she has had on the University’s military veterans and their families.

The BBJ named Crenshaw one of its 2019 Veterans of Influence honorees, which is a recognition created to celebrate military veterans who have gone on to have success in the Birmingham business world and the community as a whole.

“I learned many things during my time in the United States Navy, and one of them is to be an example worth following. Receiving this honor confirms that I took that lesson to heart,” Crenshaw said. “I am proud to be a veteran and cannot think of a more worthy group of people to serve than my fellow comrades.”

Montevallo’s Office of Veteran and Military Affairs assists prospective and current UM students not only with their benefits, but also through scholarship opportunities. The office also offers presentations to the UM military community on finances, resumes, networking and how to manage conflict and stress.

Crenshaw has been leading the office since it was created in 2018. Largely because of her efforts, UM was designated as a Military Friendly School on the 2019-2020 list of “Better for Veterans” institutions compiled by the VIQTORY organization.

Through her position, Crenshaw develops the office’s strategic plans, recruits all military-related students, develops partnerships with nonprofit organizations and state and federal agencies throughout Alabama, creates, executes and fosters student support programs and advises UM’s Student Veterans Association.

“Those who have worn the military uniform learn quickly that those around you become your extended family,” Crenshaw said. “We make sure our veterans know that the University of Montevallo can be their next family. Together, as a unit, we can accomplish anything whether we are currently wearing the uniform or not.”