As a nationally recognized leader in supporting student veterans, Florida State University is further empowering those who served through a new merit scholarship offered in partnership with the Stamps Scholars Program.

Launching this fall, the Stamps Veteran Scholars Program will honor the service, leadership and sacrifice of U.S. military veterans by providing transformative educational and leadership opportunities. It will be the nation’s first Stamps Scholars Program designed specifically for undergraduate student veterans.

“Stamps Veteran Scholars at FSU will be individuals of exceptional intellectual curiosity, demonstrated leadership and a deep commitment to service,” said Billy Francis, director of the FSU Student Veterans Center. “We are looking for students who seek not only to succeed academically, but to contribute meaningfully to our campus community and the world beyond.”

The SVSP at FSU will launch with an inaugural cohort of up to five Stamps Veteran Scholars, each receiving a merit scholarship and enrichment support package. Through a dollar-for-dollar funding match between Florida State University and the Stamps Scholars Program, the SVSP is designed to provide select student veterans with education and networking opportunities that provide a foundation for future growth.

Each veteran scholar will receive a total of up to $26,000 toward the completion of an undergraduate degree. That includes covering any remaining balance of Florida State’s estimated cost of attendance, up to $8,000 per year. It also includes up to $10,000 in enrichment funding that can be applied toward professional and scholarly enhancement opportunities, including study abroad experiences, undergraduate research, leadership programs and national conferences.

Stamps Veteran Scholars will also join a national network of Stamps Scholars and alumni, gaining access to a community of accomplished student leaders, mentorship opportunities and experiences that extend far beyond the classroom.

“The SVSP will build upon FSU’s foundation of veteran student support by helping to eliminate financial barriers, empowering recipients to fully dedicate themselves to their academic goals, undergraduate research and leadership development as they transition into impactful civilian careers.”

– Billy Francis, FSU Student Veterans Center director

E. Roe Stamps IV is a businessman, private investor and philanthropist who, with his late wife Penny, has supported students through their philanthropic work since 2000. They founded the Stamps Scholars Program in 2006 to help exceptional students achieve their education and life goals. Through partnerships with universities across the country, the program supports high-achieving students through scholarship funding, leadership development and enrichment experiences.

The Stamps Scholars Program currently supports more than 1,330 Scholars, with 39 partner institutions nationwide. Together with alumni, the Stamps community includes more than 4,400 exceptional leaders.

“We are honored to partner with Florida State to recognize and support veterans whose service, leadership and sacrifice have strengthened our country,” Roe Stamps said. “The Stamps Veteran Scholars Program reflects our commitment to helping these exceptional students pursue their educational goals, develop their talents and continue making meaningful contributions in their communities and professions. We look forward to welcoming them into the broader Stamps Scholars community.”

In establishing the SVSP at FSU, the Stamps Scholars Program has recognized FSU’s stature among peer institutions in veteran support, retention, graduation and career-placement metrics. Central to this success is FSU’s commitment to providing students with comprehensive services, dedicated facilities and robust campus relationships. The Student Veterans Center hosts more than 30 annual veteran-centered programs and events to cultivate a deep sense of community and belonging among military-affiliated students.

“The SVSP will build upon FSU’s foundation of veteran student support by helping to eliminate financial barriers, empowering recipients to fully dedicate themselves to their academic goals, undergraduate research and leadership development as they transition into impactful civilian careers,” Francis said.

For more information about the SVSP, visit veterans.fsu.edu/stamps-veteran-scholars-program.

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Allison Justice is a doctoral student in the Florida State University Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences and an assistant professor in the FSU School of Physician Assistant Practice whose career is built on a foundation of service to others. Long before guiding future clinicians or pursuing her doctorate at FSU, Justice served her country as a flight medic with the Florida Army National Guard, completing two deployments to Iraq in OIF 06-08 and OND 2011. Her military background forged a deep resilience and a mission-first mindset she carries into both her doctoral studies and her civilian career. 

This veteran spirit anchors her roles in education, clinical practice and advocacy. In the classroom, she shapes the next generation of medical professionals as an assistant professor, a responsibility that pairs with her leadership as president-elect of the Florida Academy of PAs. She also serves as the founding faculty adviser for the HOME (Homeless Outreach Medicine and Education) Street Medicine Program, managing the logistics and performing outreach that allow FSU students to support essential healthcare in Tallahassee’s encampments. Across all these responsibilities, she connects tactical military medicine, advanced instructional design and hands-on community advocacy.

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Gabrielle Dybalski, a graduate student in Florida State University’s master’s clinical social work program, brings a wealth of experience from her nine years in the U.S. Marine Corps, where she rose to staff sergeant (E6) as an intelligence specialist.

Her time at FSU has been defined by her commitment to service and involvement with the FSU Student Veterans Center, which she credits for easing her transition from military to academic life.

Dybalski continues to draw on her leadership background and dedication to helping others as she builds skills and serves both the campus and the broader community.

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As Florida State University celebrates the summer class of 2025, more than 2,850 graduates are stepping into the next chapter of their lives, joining a global network of over 407,000 FSU alumni.

This summer, the university will award 1,692 bachelor’s degrees, 881 master’s and specialist degrees, 183 doctoral degrees, 4 Juris Doctor degrees, 93 Juris Master’s degrees, and 2 LLM degrees. Roughly 1,850 graduates will participate in person, marking a proud moment for the FSU community.

This summer’s graduates have had a variety of experiences, mentors and moments that shaped their individual academic journeys. From groundbreaking research to personal transformation, these stories reflect the resilience, curiosity and drive that define the spirit of FSU.

Miguel Garcia-Salas is graduating with a doctorate from FSU’s School of Communication Science and Disorders. His work focused on speech-language pathology with an emphasis on family-centered interventions.

During his time at FSU, Garcia-Salas published in top-tier journals, presented at national American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) conferences, earned multiple awards and taught undergraduate courses.

A highlight of his research was the development of the DREAM Program, Dialogic Reading Education through Accessible Modules. This online initiative helps families implement dialogic reading, a proven technique that fosters language development through interactive storybook reading. Garcia-Salas piloted the program with 42 families and reported promising outcomes in his dissertation.

Beyond academics, Garcia-Salas raised his young family in Tallahassee, an experience he describes as deeply meaningful.

“This is all my family knows, this FSU community,” Garcia-Salas said. “The FSU Childcare and Early Learning Program, the Florida Center for Reading Research my school, the library and university grants have all played a role in helping me balance fatherhood and scholarship.”

After graduation, Garcia-Salas will join the University of Arkansas as an assistant professor. He plans to continue working with historically underserved families and community organizations to promote language and literacy development through home-based interventions.

Carlton Wier, a Marine Corps veteran born and raised in Tallahassee, is graduating this semester with a degree in interdisciplinary social science from Florida State University’s College of Social Sciences and Public Policy.

Wier chose to attend FSU for its tradition, culture and the outstanding reputation of the Student Veterans Center.

“It is an honor to walk in this semester’s commencement ceremony and join close relatives as Florida State alumni,” Wier said. “The history, culture, tradition and the people I had the privilege to meet set Florida State apart.”

During his time at FSU, Wier found support through the Student Veterans Center, which he described as a model of integrity, inclusion and expertise in navigating VA benefits.

“The Student Veterans Center is an example of what selfless service truly means,” he said. “It improves character, performance and confidence in a veteran experiencing college life after and during military service.”

He said he will miss the staff, facilities, athletics, academics, professors, students and alumni most from his time at FSU.

After graduation, Wier plans to start a business or organization dedicated to supporting veterans, law enforcement, first responders and their families with a broader mission to serve the community in any way possible.

“I look forward to continuing to uphold the title and responsibility that comes with being a graduate of Florida State University,” he said. “Go Noles!”

Zahria Moore, a first-generation college graduate from Boca Raton, Florida, is earning her degree in criminology with a minor in African American studies from Florida State University’s College of Criminology and Criminal Justice.

Moore chose Florida State for its standout academic programs and vibrant campus life. Criminology, one of FSU’s top-ranked majors, caught her attention early on, but it was the university’s spirit and support systems that made it feel like home.

“My journey has been very unique and challenging,” Moore said. “Walking in this commencement ceremony is something I’ve always dreamt of, but never fully imagined happening until this week. Getting the email that I would graduate made my heart do a backflip.”

Throughout her time at FSU, Moore found a strong sense of community through the Unconquered Scholars Program and CARE (Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement). These programs provided her with more than just academic support—they gave her a village.

“These programs feel like drinking from a wishing well,” Moore said during her keynote address at the 2025 Unconquered Scholars Awareness Banquet. “Everything that I wanted, everything that I came to college looking for, I found in this remarkable program and these amazing people. My family, my home away from home, my safe space, my confidants.”

Moore’s proudest accomplishment was not only growing within the Unconquered Scholars Program but also helping it grow. Serving on the executive board became a defining part of her college experience.

“Joining the board was possibly one of the best things I could have done in my college career,” she said.

When she reflects on her time at FSU, Moore lights up at the memory of football season and spontaneous campus events.

“Something I love about FSU is the spirit of football season. It unites everyone—no matter who you are or where you came from,” she said. “And I’ll miss the random events on Landis. Waking up to a carnival being built genuinely made me smile.”

After graduation, Moore will begin her career as a youth counselor at a juvenile detention center in New Hampshire—her first step toward a long-term goal of positively impacting the criminal justice system.

“I earned this,” she said. “And I’m excited for everyone to see that.”

Alison Cole has always been drawn to the roar of engines. Growing up in Jupiter, Florida, she was captivated by a nearby facility that assembled and tested military helicopters.

“I grew up down the street from where they built the Blackhawks, and I’d always watch them get tested, and you could hear the engines going,” Cole said. “It was just really fascinating to me.”

That early fascination led her to pursue a Master’s in Business Administration at FSU, which she will receive this month. After graduation, she will work in Orlando for Lockheed Martin’s Missiles and Fire Control department.

Cole credits her success to the support she received from professors and mentors, especially Larry Giunipero, one of the nation’s top supply chain experts.

“Without Dr. Larry Giunipero, I don’t know where I would be,” she said. “His connections and his love of the supply chain really helped me focus on where I wanted to go after graduation.”

Giunipero praised Cole’s intelligence, business acumen and drive, noting her potential to help solve complex supply chain challenges.

Cole said her MBA experience helped her understand business dynamics and corporate strategy, giving her the tools to navigate the professional world.

Outside of academics, Cole recently completed the London Marathon, a personal milestone she describes as one of her proudest accomplishments.

“It was the hardest thing I’ve probably ever had to accomplish, but I’m really proud that I did that,” she said.

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U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Deputy Secretary Paul R. Lawrence visited Florida State University’s campus Tuesday, June 24, for a roundtable discussion with FSU, Florida A&M University and Tallahassee State College student veterans and those who work to support them.

The discussion was held in FSU’s Harpe-Johnson ROTC Building and focused on VA education benefits, with the Deputy Secretary seeking input from attendees about what is working well in addition to identifying potential areas of improvement for all involved.

“One of the best benefits from being in the military is the G.I. Bill — free college education if you serve for three years honorably,” Lawrence said. “But of course, it has to be a great experience. What I was impressed with was how granular and detailed the students’ feedback was and how really operational it was — things that we could go and do right away to make the experience better.”

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Christopher Marley, a Marine Corps veteran, FSU nursing alumnus and current Master of Business Administration (MBA) student, has demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout his academic and career journey.

While working as a nurse in late 2021, Marley experienced a life-threatening stroke when he was just three classes short of graduation with his third degree, an MBA from Florida State University.

Since then, he has been working on recovery, and with the help of FSU’s Student Veterans Center and Office of Accessibility Services, recently returned to FSU to finish his MBA in hopes of making a difference in health care administration.

Marley’s journey has shaped his perspective on leadership and resilience. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance, taking risks and not letting complacency hinder personal and professional growth.

Through FSU’s Student Veterans Center, Marley has participated in community outreach and events while also finding a community that supports him throughout his education and recovery.

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Researchers at Florida State University are helping to develop the next-generation technologies and breakthroughs that will have positive impacts on Florida and the world. In medicine, childhood literacy, weather forecasting, food safety and other fields, FSU researchers are providing expertise and solutions to help solve difficult problems.

Here are some of the ways FSU is making a difference:

Magnifying Impact: The National High Magnetic Field Laboratory

FSU is home to the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, the largest and most powerful facility of its kind in the world. Each year, it hosts thousands of researchers whose work tackles critical questions in materials, technology, energy, health and the environment. With generous support from the Florida Legislature, MagLab scientists and engineers have developed a revolutionary process that would potentially extract $20 billion worth of previously untapped rare earth materials from phosphogypsum stacks across central Florida.

Pioneering Medical Research to Combat Rare Pediatric Diseases

The Institute for Pediatric Rare Diseases (IPRD), a key initiative of the FSU College of Medicine, is transforming the landscape of rare disease research, treatment and advocacy. Some of IPRD’s cutting-edge initiatives include establishing a whole-genome sequencing lab, expanding genetic counseling services and funding over 20 active research projects. With strong backing from university leadership, legislative funding and community partnerships, the institute is accelerating medical advancements that will improve the lives of children and families worldwide.

Enhancing Extreme Weather Predictions with Innovative Techniques

Researchers at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering have developed Empirical Quantile Mapping with Linear Correction (EQM-LIN), a groundbreaking technique that improves the accuracy of extreme weather forecasts. Through integrating advanced statistical modeling with bias correction techniques, EQM-LIN enhances weather projections, aiding disaster preparedness. Initially focused in South Florida, this research is expanding statewide to help stakeholders identify flood-prone areas and protect vulnerable infrastructure.

Equipping Children with a Lifetime of Literacy

Since 2002, the Florida Center for Reading Research (FCRR) has been a driving force in advancing literacy through evidence-based research and innovation. By developing reading resources, assessment tools and interventions, FCRR supports learners of all ages, ensuring reading is accessible to all. Collaborating with educators, policymakers and researchers worldwide, FCRR’s efforts are transforming literacy education and improving learning outcomes.

Leading Innovations in Food Safety

Researchers at the Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences are developing rapid, standardized tests for detecting foodborne pathogens. Offering unmatched speed and efficiency, these tests are invaluable for stakeholders such as food processors and testing labs. FSU research also helped to develop the RIGHTTest, a seafood identification tool used by SeaD Consulting to detect mislabeled shrimp. Innovations like these promote transparency and accountability, playing a crucial role in ensuring public safety in the food industry.

Advancing Research and Response in Emergency Management

The Emergency Management and Homeland Security Program at FSU stands out for its leadership in preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation across diverse emergency scenarios. Its members actively contribute to the Florida Division of Emergency Management’s State Emergency Response Team (SERT) and the Florida Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) system, assisting in air operations and disaster response efforts, such as those following Hurricane Idalia. Beyond field operations, the department is nationally recognized for its cutting-edge research. A current study on information transmission within unmanned aircraft systems explores potential cybersecurity risks to U.S. infrastructure. As innovations in technology advance, this research plays a vital role in safeguarding government agencies and the public.

Empowering Veterans for Academic and Career Success

FSU’s Student Veterans Center (SVC) is a national leader in supporting student veterans and helping them achieve academic and career success. Enlisting in the U.S. military equips individuals with valuable skills such as strong decision-making and self-discipline, which are highly sought after by employers. However, challenges like limited prior higher education and a lack of workforce experience can impact veterans’ career opportunities. The SVC not only makes higher education more accessible but has also increased student veteran graduation rates by 15% in recent years. By ensuring veterans have the support they need to complete their education, the SVC helps produce highly skilled and desirable employees for the workforce.

Expanding Health Care Access and Research

With the goal of improving access and innovation in health and health care in Northwest Florida, Florida State University has announced plans to build an acute care hospital in Panama City Beach. The planned hospital will be located in the same medical district and adjacent to a new medical office building that opened in July 2024 and currently offers primary care, urgent care, cardiology and pulmonary services. Beyond meeting community health care needs, the campus is distinguished by its commitment to advancing research in aging and digital health, ultimately enhancing the quality of life in this region and beyond.

Restoring Apalachicola Bay

The Apalachicola Bay System Initiative (ABSI) was established at FSU’s Coastal and Marine Laboratory to help restore what was once a top fishery. After four years of research and stakeholder engagement, ABSI developed a community-centered restoration and management plan for Apalachicola Bay. This plan outlines five key goals supported by research-backed strategies, serving as an ‘ecosystem roadmap’ that the legislature is encouraged to adopt. Implementing this framework will restore the bay and foster a thriving economy.

Optimizing AI to its Fullest Potential

Recognizing the growth of AI, Florida State University is equipping future professionals with expertise in emerging technologies. The College of Nursing, for example, is the first nursing school in the nation to offer a concentration in AI Applications in Healthcare, bridging the gap between AI and nursing practice to improve patient outcomes and efficiency in health care delivery. At the College of Law, groundbreaking research explores the intersection of AI and law, reinforcing FSU’s leadership in legal education. Through integrating AI into coursework, FSU ensures students are prepared to succeed in an evolving world across all fields of study.

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When the Student Veterans Center (SVC) opened its doors 12 years ago, Director Billy Francis envisioned Florida State University becoming the most veteran-friendly and empowering campus in the country.

Fast forward to today, and the SVC has established itself and the veteran community as an integral part of FSU, with more than 20,000 military-connected students served and counting.

This past weekend, FSU held its annual Military Appreciation Football Game. Student veterans were recognized on the field, photos of veterans were shared on the video boards during the game and three paratroopers from MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa descended onto the field before the game.

“The special energy the Military Appreciation Game generates really encapsulates the positive vibe Florida State aims for in its support of veterans and military students,” Francis said. “FSU Athletics does such a great job making veterans feel connected to and even a special part of the university community.”

PHOTO GALLERY

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Florida State University’s Student Veterans Center will host a series of events and activities Nov. 6-11 for the Tallahassee community to celebrate veterans and their service. Read more …

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Florida State University’s Student Veterans Center will host a series of events and activities Nov. 6-11 for the Tallahassee community to celebrate veterans and their service. Veterans Week will kick off with a film screening and conclude with the Military Appreciation Football Game as the Florida State Seminoles take on the University of Miami Hurricanes.

“Florida State salutes veterans past, present and future,” said Billy Francis, director of the FSU Student Veterans Center. “Veterans Week at FSU was originated by students and embodies the special military and veteran supportive campus we have. We hope you join us for this special week of events.”

FSU’s rich history with veterans began with the renaming of Florida State College for Women to Florida State University in 1947 to allow men to attend the now co-educational university following World War II. Since then, FSU has been committed to its veteran students, including opening the Students Veterans Center in November 2011 to serve as a “one-stop shop” of resources for veteran and military students.

Veterans Week events include:

THURSDAY, NOV. 9

“Sisters for Soldiers” Film Screening
6:30 p.m. event, 8 p.m. film
Landis Green

The women of Alpha Omicron Pi are sponsoring the “Sisters for Soldiers” film screening, with all proceeds benefitting the FSU Veterans Emergency Fund. The event starts at 6:30 p.m. with a BBQ, vendor tables, cornhole and other activities and the Oscar-winning film “1917” will be shown starting at 8 p.m. Tickets for the event are $7.

FRIDAY, NOV. 10

Alumni Association Welcome Veterans Alumni Party
5:30-7:30 p.m.
FSU Alumni Center

This complimentary event includes food and drinks and is open to all students and alumni who have served – or are still serving – as well as their family members. Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP online at fla.st/52PS9URT.

SATURDAY, NOV. 11 (Veterans Day)

Collegiate Veterans Association’s Pregame Tailgate
12:30 p.m.
Golden Chiefs Parking Lot 4, Spot 82

Student veterans and veteran alumni are invited to the Collegiate Veterans Association’s Pregame Tailgate in the Golden Chiefs parking lot before the Military Appreciation Football Game.

Military Appreciation Football Game
3:30 p.m.
Doak S. Campbell Stadium

The Florida State Seminoles take on the University of Miami Hurricanes for the annual Military Appreciation Game, which will include an on-field recognition of currently enrolled veterans, a separate recognition of ROTC cadets, veteran-submitted photos displayed on the stadium’s video boards and a pregame flyover of military aircraft (conditions permitting).

FSU’s veteran-rich heritage and culture is symbolized by the Veterans Alliance Arrowhead, which represents the thousands of individuals who have initiated, cultivated and sustained relationships with FSU’s veterans.

Veterans Alliance Arrowhead merchandise can be purchased in-store or online from Garnet and Gold, with a percentage of proceeds benefitting the FSU Student Veterans Center.

For more information, visit veterans.fsu.edu and follow FSU Student Veterans Center on Facebook, Instagram and X for the latest updates.

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