MD HOGGINS, PHD
VETERAN
President
Michelle Hoggins holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Psychology, a Master of Divinity in Pastoral Care and Counseling, and Bachelor of Arts in Accounting. She is a United States Army veteran with 10 years of service, 4 years enlisted, Active-duty and 6 years officer, Reserves. 1LT Hoggins’ tours of duties include Camp Casey Korea, Ft. Benning, GA, and Ft. Jackson, SC. Military service awards include US Army Chaplain Center and School, Honor Graduate; US Army NCO School of Infantry, PLDC, Commandant’s List; Dept. of Army, Commendation Medal; Good Conduct Medal; Achievement Medal (2nd Award); Overseas Service Medal. Dr. Hoggins is the Founder of Virtual OIF/OEF Veterans Organization, Inc. (VVO), a 501c3 nonprofit veterans’ organization.
The vision for Virtual Veterans was birthed out of the overwhelming responses and notable results from Dr. Hoggins’ dissertation research. The dissertation research, A Phenomenological Approach to Understanding the Impact of War Trauma for African-American Female Veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, explored the effects of combat trauma for African-American and European-American female OIF/OEF war veterans. As a result, Virtual OIE/OEF Veterans Organization, Inc. evolved into a social change agent that responds to the challenges associated with the aftermath of military experience.
RONALD BRUNSON, SR. BSN, RCS
(RET.)
Board Member
Ronald Brunson is a United States Army veteran (Ret.), with 20 years of Active-Duty service. SFC Brunson served as a Respiratory Therapist at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington D.C.; Cardiovascular Technologist (Non-invasive) at National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, and Cardiopulmonary Technologist, Supervisor of Cardiology Service at Fitzsimons Army Medical Center, Aurora, CO. SFC Brunson’ military education includes the Naval School of Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD Cardiopulmonary Technician, Certificate and Brooke Army Medical Center, Fort Sam Houston, Texas Respiratory Therapist Program, Certificate. Currently, Mr. Brunson is a Registered Cardiac Sonographer with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. As chief administrator and manager of hospital departments, he acquired invaluable leadership, management, and budgeting skills. Those character attributes are indicative of integrity, honor, and trustworthiness. Mr. Brunson is both a veteran and military spouse.
CAROLYN BROWN, SFC
(RET.)
Board Member
Carolyn Brown is a United States Army veteran (Ret.), with 21 years of Active-Duty service. SFC Brown is a decorated soldier with four campaigns during the Gulf War era. Her overseas tour duties include Dexhiem, Germany and Ft. Wainwright, Alaska. After four deployments, SFC Brown retired with an honorable discharge. Her awards include Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Star, National Defense Service Medal, and Southwest Asia Service Medal with Bronze Service Star. SFC Brown is the CEO and Founder of One Story, LLC. One Story is a resource center for the homeless population in Tampa, FL. With an emphasis on Veterans, One Story provides the housing and services necessary to help homeless individuals return to a productive and meaningful life.
JORDAN COOKE, SSG
SPOUSE
Military Support Network
Administrator
Jordan Cooke is a proud and “seasoned” U.S. Army Spouse (10+ years). She is the Founder of C3 Foundation Inc., a military advocacy non-profit organization. As the CEO, she provides advocacy and support services for military members, retirees, veterans, spouses, and dependents. She is a passionate volunteer for military spouses and soldier support programs. Jordan contributes her passion to serve the military and their families to her Faith and her relationship with God. “This is the purpose to which I was called”. Ms. Cooke is currently working on a Bachelor of Arts in English with an Emphasis in Professional Writing. Upon completion, she will pursue a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Sciences with an Emphasis in Trauma. She brings a wealth of experience in the areas of marketing, accounting health care, hospitality, publishing, and real estate.
SAVANNA SMITHERMAN
YOUTH AMBASSADOR
Military Dependent Network
Savanna is an ambassador for the Virtual OIF/OEF Veterans Youth Mentoring Program. She is a Military Dependent who currently recruits youth and plan activities for the Mentoring Program. She is an upcoming freshman with aspirations of studying Criminal Justice, after High School. She loves to travel, play basketball, and help others. She is a social butterfly, with a great personality and poised demeanor.