Keiser University Sarasota Campus learners Jason Briggs, Jim Valentin, and David Howells are among many student veterans who are preparing to serve their communities in civil service and healthcare professions.

Motivated by a strong desire to assist fellow community friends and neighbors, the group is thankful for the support of their families and Keiser University faculty and staff members as well as for their military experiences.

“As I walk through Keiser University, there are times when I realize that the smiling photos in the brochures are from daily life on campus,” said Valentin, who along with fellow student Jason Briggs is majoring in Law Enforcement Operations and credits Professor Randy Gonzalez for his insightful lessons. “His experience and knowledge are exceptional, and his teaching style allows for learning and fosters growth among those he instructs,” reflected Valentin.

Howells, a Radiologic Technology graduate who enjoys sharing his experience and knowledge with other veterans as president of the campus’ Student Veterans Association and also as an Esports program performance coach is now working toward his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and acknowledges the value of familial support. “Each generation of my family has served the military including myself and now my wife who recently just graduated from the United States Air Force boot camp with honors. They have always pushed me to achieve any goal I set for myself,” he said while adding that his service in the armed forces has also helped shape him into an effective and collaborative leader.

The servicemen are appreciative that they can lead and motivate fellow learners. “I’m thankful for how my journey is of value to classmates,” reflected Briggs. “After being here for a while, I’m able to share what I’ve learned and to provide insights as we prepare to transition to the professional world,” he said.

With approximately 20% of students being Veterans, active-duty military, and family members, Keiser University continues to be a valuable partner to employers, the community, and, above all, a valued choice for military students serious about their education and career.

Keiser University’s Bachelor of Science degree in Law Enforcement Operations program prepares students for career positions in various areas within the field of law enforcement.  It provides students with in-depth exposure to the criminal justice system and the forensic investigations field.  The BSLEO is delivered through a unique hybrid format to maximize student learning and promote career development in a flexible scheduled format while also maximizing efficiency in resources.  Fundamental areas critical to both public and private sector entry-level positions are included in the program such as crime scene investigation, fingerprinting, introduction to law enforcement, criminal investigation, forensic photography, and police communications report writing.  In addition, the program prepares students with competencies in real-world applications that emphasize identifying, locating, documenting, collecting, and preserving evidence within legal frameworks.  Students may select from concentrations in Law Enforcement, Forensic Investigation, or Courts and Corrections.

Keiser University is a private, independent, non-profit university serving nearly 20,000 students at 21 Florida campuses, online, and two international sites. Co-founded in 1977 by Chancellor Arthur Keiser, Ph.D., and Evelyn Keiser, Keiser University currently offers more than 100 degrees from associates to the doctoral level. Keiser University is a  designated Hispanic-Serving Institution, a member of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, and was ranked No. 5 in the U.S. in Social Mobility by U.S. News And World Report in 2022.