From Soldier to Healthcare Advocate After nine years of service in the U.S. Army, I saw how deeply mental health challenges can affect soldiers’ lives. Witnessing the consequences of stigma and misunderstanding pushed me to speak up rather than stay silent. Although my first degree was in accounting, I felt compelled to shift my path toward healthcare—motivated by a desire to meet people’s needs and expand access to compassionate, high‑quality care. Today, my commitment extends beyond supporting veterans. I am dedicated to serving my broader community by challenging stigma and advocating for a more informed, and empathetic approach