Green Zone Ally Training is a form of diversity & cultural awareness training that highlights veterans' experiences in higher education & the workplace. Starting in 2010 at just one small college, Green Zone Ally training has now expanded to be offered at more than 100 universities, companies, and organizations nationwide. Green Zone Ally Training provides the needed professional development so organizations can better understand the strengths & needs of the veteran/military connected community. Specifically, the mission of Green Zone Ally training is to distinguish between the different military identities, butter understand the military culture and norms of veterans and military families, identify common challenges veteran and military-connected students and employees face and better understand Veteran Affairs (VA) benefits for veteran students and employees. This session will run for 75 minutes.

Presenter Bio: Josiah has been a member of the veteran and military community for almost 40 years. He grew up all over the United States (and abroad) as the son of an active-duty Air Force officer. When the horrific events of 9/11 happened, Josiah made the decision to join the military. In the fall of 2003, Josiah enlisted in the Army as a Combat Engineer. During Josiah’s six-year career in the military, he deployed twice to Iraq. During his second deployment he received a purple heart and a bronze star with valor for his actions in combat. Following his time in service, Josiah earned an associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degree. Following his bachelor’s degree, Josiah began to work in higher education with a specific focus on supporting and advocating for veteran students. Josiah continues to work in higher education and currently serves as the Director of Veteran and Military Student Services at a higher education institution in Baltimore, Maryland. He has been presenting Green Zone Ally training for over five years and has trained over 400 educators, students, and community members to be allies to the veteran and military community. Josiah has been married for over 10 years and has three amazing children. He currently resides in Carroll County, Maryland.