Military Insider: Graduates 2026

MAJ Alexandra Perez

Army Reserve

Master of Divinity

My journey to graduation has been marked by unexpected turns and unwavering faith. I left the corporate world to pursue my degree as a full-time student, committed to building a better future. Soon after, I was unexpectedly selected for a deployment to the Middle East. While serving overseas in demanding roles, continuing my education often seemed nearly impossible.

Yet in the middle of the desert, God was working. In a place far from home, I found my spiritual walk growing stronger alongside my academic journey. I began to understand that the Lord had called me to leave my nation for a purpose greater than my own. With His guidance, I received approval to organize a Spiritual Fitness 5K called “Running on Faith.” The event brought together more than 2,000 service members across our base, raising awareness about the importance of being spiritually ready.

Just like the race, faith carried me forward and gave me the strength to walk, and when necessary, run the extra mile. This journey to graduation became more than earning a degree; it became a testimony of resilience, purpose, and finishing the mission God set before me.

Stay encouraged as you work toward your degree. Missions, deployments, and life’s challenges may come, but a Soldier stays resilient and focused on the mission. It’s okay to take a knee and slow the pace as long as you don’t stop moving forward. “Let us not grow weary in doing good… we will reap if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9

Robert Broughton

Navy Veteran

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration & Data Analysis: Entrepreneurship

I came from a family that entered the workforce as teenagers, honing our crafts so that by high school graduation we were already employed. Higher education was not part of our family history. I followed that tradition, first serving in the military after high school, then returning home to join my family in the trades. Everything changed when I met my wife, Shannon. She refused to let me waste my GI Bill and encouraged me to enroll in college, setting me on a journey that has now led to earning my bachelor’s degree with a master’s afterward. Along the way, I discovered that I truly enjoy learning and desire continued spiritual, personal, and professional growth. I credit my wife for seeing potential in me that I did not yet see in myself. Our journey has also shown our children that persistence, good intentions, and a commitment to growth can open doors you never imagined possible.

To all military students still working toward your degree, it’s never too late to reach your goals. Don’t doubt yourself. You’re more capable than you think. I once said I’d never go to college, and I’m grateful I was wrong. Stay the course. Your discipline and resilience will carry you forward, and your future self will thank you.

Sgt. 1st Class Dana Clarke

Active-Duty Army

Master of Arts in Visual Communication Design

From Germany to South Carolina, my journey to graduation has been anything but ordinary. As an active-duty Soldier working in visual information (photography, videography, and graphic design), I began LUO’s Master of Visual Communication Design program in 2022 because I was determined to grow beyond the demands of my uniform. Late nights after long duty days. Deadlines met across time zones. Creative breakthroughs celebrated quietly while the rest of the world slept. Every project pushed me further than I thought possible.

Now, I cross the finish line with a 4.0 GPA and a portfolio stronger than I ever imagined, built not in a traditional classroom, but through discipline, sacrifice, and a genuine love for the craft. Liberty Online gave me something rare: the chance to level up my skills on my own terms, wherever the Army sent me. This degree doesn’t just represent academic achievement; it represents who I am as a Soldier and a creative.

To military students pursuing a degree, balancing the demands of military life, whether on active duty or as a veteran, with higher education takes grit, sacrifice, and an unshakable belief in your potential. That’s not just admirable, that’s extraordinary. Serve your country honorably, pursue your goals with fervor, and never lose sight of yourself along the way!

Kimmie Hawkins

Navy Spouse

Education Specialist in Curriculum & Instruction

In 2014, after my youngest graduated from high school, I began a journey that had quietly been waiting for me. As a military spouse, mother, and educator, my life had always centered on serving others. That year, I chose to also invest in myself, simply putting one foot in front of the other.

In 2017, I earned my bachelor’s degree in education. In 2018, determined to keep growing, I completed my master’s degree in one year; it became my full-time job. Knowing in my heart that I was not finished, I began pursuing my doctorate in 2019. Although my path shifted and I ultimately completed my Education Specialist degree, that change does not diminish the perseverance, faith, and dedication poured into this eleven-year journey.

This milestone reflects late nights, resilience through transitions, and the unwavering support of my family and friends. Today, I graduate with deep gratitude for the growth, the calling, and the community who walked beside me every step of the way.

Tanya Amir

Marine Corps Spouse

Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling

I never thought about becoming a pastoral counselor until my husband, a proud Vietnam Marine veteran, died in 2017. I had never felt so lost and alone. A year later, while still grief-stricken and in prayer, I was finally ready to talk. I looked for a grief counselor but had no luck finding one. Grief counselors were not accepting new clients, and social media grief groups had memberships in the thousands. So, in prayer again, I sensed the Lord saying, “Well, I guess you have to start your own.” That calling led me to Liberty University, which I now know was the open door to my new ministry purpose.

I could not see or understand it then, but through this journey, I became a licensed and ordained pastor, started a successful grief support ministry, and now lead workshops and talks specializing in grief so that, by God’s grace, no one has to feel as alone in their grief journey as I did in mine.

Trent Jacobi

Navy Veteran

Bachelor of Science in Information Systems

My journey to graduation was 30 years long. After high school I attended a small junior college in Northwest Iowa. I was not a disciplined student and realized I needed to make a change. After speaking with some friends and former veterans I chose to join the United States Navy and gain technical skills in electronics. After a 6-year enlistment and a journey I will always cherish, I exited the Navy and returned to school part time but still did not finish. I was fortunate to begin working in cybersecurity before it was a recognized skillset. This early entry into cybersecurity allowed me to have a very successful career, but through encouragement of family, friends, and mentors, I chose to focus and finish my degree.

I found Liberty University Online and was immediately impressed by their dedication to Building Champions for Christ. Continuing to work full time, my family allowed me to dedicate my evenings and weekends to my studies. After two focused years, I was able to complete my Bachelor of Science in Information Systems graduating Summa Cum Laude.