This Veterans Day, Shippensburg University proudly honors a handful of student veterans who have served in the US Armed Forces. Their dedication, resilience and unique perspectives enrich our campus and inspire us all. Here, six student veterans share their experiences, their journeys at Shippensburg and what Veterans Day means to them.
Michael Downey
MBA student, Supply Chain Management
Downey served as a military police officer alongside his brother in Afghanistan. Through his service, he became a strong leader. “The resilience, teamwork, and leadership experience during my time allows me to still conquer complex goals, work well with others and go into every opportunity with a positive mindset,” said Downey.
He felt drawn to Ship because of its AACSB accreditation and military-friendly ‘gold status’. For Downey, Veterans Day is a time of gratitude toward all veterans, especially family and friends, who “allow us the freedom we have today, whether we see it or not.”
Natalie Konchar
Sophomore, Supply Chain Management
Konchar served in the US Air Force in active duty for eight years, and is continuing her service in the Pennsylvania Air National Guard. With a specialization in logistics and supply chain management, Konchar ensured that personnel received the supplies needed to fulfill their duties. Reflecting on her military journey, including deployments to Qatar and Jordan.
She values the discipline and leadership skills that she gained through her service. “The military taught me how to be a disciplined professional leader, mentor, and wingman.”
Konchar sees Veterans Day as a time “to recognize, honor, and thank those who have served in our military … for our country’s freedom,” and she is proud to be a part of a university that facilitates a military-friendly environment.
Haley Cook
MEd student, Curriculum and Instruction
Cook enlisted in the military with her twin sister, Ashley, in 2017. Her journey started as a wheeled vehicle mechanic and she worked her way up to a first lieutenant in a postal unit.
Looking back on her service, the diversity in the military and the adaptability needed to succeed has shaped who she is today. “The unique perspective I have is that I see the military as a place where anyone can succeed if they work hard, and we don’t judge based on race, gender, age or rank, but on character.”
Cook felt drawn to Ship because her sister had a positive experience attending the university, and she enjoys the supportive environment and quality education that Ship offers.
Shawn Peno
MA student, Applied History
Peno has an impressive 32-year military background. He served 29 years in the US Air Force, retiring as a chief master sergeant, and is now a warrant officer in the Maryland Defense Force. Reflecting on his background and experiences while deployed in what was Yugoslavia and Iraq, he says, “My military experience taught me time management, prioritization and a wealth of life experience.”
Peno chose Ship for its in-person program, proximity to his residence in Hagerstown, MD and for its “challenging yet enjoyable” academic programming. On a daily basis, Peno applies his life experience and international perspective to his studies.
Faith Keyser
Sophomore, Political Science
Keyser enlisted in the US Army immediately after high school, serving in both Afghanistan and Iraq. She held various positions including being selected as her commander’s machine gunner, taking on the tough role of controlling a gun squad. Later on, she became a fireteam leader.
Her transition journey as a transgender service member came with unique obstacles, but was also an empowering experience. “Being a transwoman in an all-male occupation, let alone a male dominated profession, was challenging on its own. I faced a decent amount of harsh criticism and delt with some threatening attitudes, but it did not deter me, it actually empowered me.”
She chose Ship for its proximity and programs, keeping in mind her background and how it could help her engage in political studies. Keyser believes that the military provided her with structure and allowed her to develop as a professional.
Veterans Day has a deep and personal meaning for her. “It’s about remembering and honoring those who served and placed aside their own future to defend this land,” Keyser said.
Colby Houser
Junior, Criminal Justice
He was deployed to the Middle East in 2022-2023, and completed service in Jordan, Syria and Iraq – where his unit conducted a blend of law enforcement and combat missions. During his deployment, he earned his Air Assault qualification, completing the Army’s rigorous and challenging 10-day course.
“The military has taught me so much about discipline, determination, and how to be the best person I can be,” said Houser.
Houser chose Ship for its criminal justice program and the campus, and he carries his military experience and the skills he gained with him everyday.
Veterans Day is a significant day for Houser. “It’s a day to honor the drive, courage, dedication and bravery of those who serve our great nation”. He believes that the day is reserved to acknowledge the commitment and sacrifice of veterans, and their contribution to the freedom and safety of the United States.
These six student veterans stand as an example of the 100+ student veterans at Shippensburg University. Ship honors each and every one who has served and continues to serve our nation.
