Veterans Use Chaminade University to Transition Into New Careers

Veterans pivot to new careers in Hawaiʻi

Four military veterans are using their service experience to transition into civilian roles through Chaminade University of Honolulu, according to a report from chaminade.edu.

The group includes students and an adjunct professor who are moving from roles in the U.S. Army and Air Force into fields like psychology, sports management, and business education. As Veterans Day approaches on Nov. 11, these individuals are highlighting how military leadership translates to academic and professional environments.

Veterans transitioning from active duty to the classroom must change their mindsets and routines. For many, the structure of the military provides a foundation for high-stakes responsibility that can be redirected toward community service and specialized professional sectors.

Leadership through psychology and service

Victoria Francois, 40, spent nearly 19 years in the Army before leaving her post as a sergeant first class in February 2023. Having served as a surgical technician for 17 years, she was assigned to Tripler Army Medical Center in 2017.

Francois began her studies at Chaminade in 2019, attending evening classes while still in uniform. After earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology in May 2024, she is now working toward a master’s degree in counseling psychology.

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“I may know how to get things done and execute, because that’s just what the military has taught me over and over,” Francois said. “But collaboration is everything, right?”

She currently serves as the president of the university’s Psi Chi psychology honor society. Francois intends to finish her master’s program in May 2027 and eventually pursue a doctorate in educational psychology while working with the Hawaiʻi Department of Education.

Adam Haley, 28, also found a new direction in psychology. After six and a half years in the Army working in communications and information technology, Haley reached the rank of sergeant.

While he initially worked as a network engineer, Haley realized his interest lay in the interpersonal aspects of leadership. As a noncommissioned officer, he found fulfillment in conducting monthly counseling sessions for soldiers.

“I never thought I’d be the type to say I love coming to school, love school, or anything like that, but I genuinely look forward to coming to Chaminade,” Haley said.

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New paths in management and education

For some, the transition is driven by physical necessity or a desire for specific academic programs. Jonah Martell, 22, served as an Army cavalry scout at Schofield Barracks until a medical discharge in 2025 ended his two-year career.

Martell chose Chaminade specifically for its Sports and Event Management program, an option he noted was unavailable at other institutions he considered. He is currently a freshman planning to add a second major in criminal justice.

“So, ever since I joined, now I’m more focused and, like, okay, I need to get this done, to start my career, and help myself,” Martell said. He believes his military service fundamentally changed his approach to education.

Michael Rose, a retired Air Force senior master sergeant, has completed the full circle from student to educator. After 20 years of service that included deployments to 58 countries, Rose earned an Executive MBA from Chaminade in 2023.

After working as a researcher at the university’s School of Business and Communication, Rose now serves as an adjunct professor. He teaches principles of macroeconomics through the university’s Early College program at Sacred Hearts Academy.

“I think it’s just to not take it for granted,” Rose said regarding the sacrifices made by military members. “And to really think about the sacrifice that military members make on a daily basis.”

Service Member Transition Profiles

Name	Military Branch	Highest Rank	Current/Recent Path
Victoria Francois	Army	Sergeant First Class (E-7)	Master’s student in Counseling Psychology
Jonah Martell	Army	Specialist (E-4)	Freshman in Sports and Event Management
Adam Haley	Army	Sergeant (E-5)	Junior majoring in Psychology
Michael Rose	Air Force	Senior Master Sergeant (E-8)	Adjunct Professor

The ability of veterans to integrate into higher education and the professional workforce remains a critical component of post-service economic stability. While the military provides technical training, the move into specialized roles in healthcare, education, and management demonstrates a broader application of disciplined leadership.

Whether through specialized degree programs or direct entry into the workforce, these individuals manage the complexities of civilian life using the skills developed during their service.