About Us
The Office of Veteran and Military Services provides leadership, guidance, and coordination of services and support for military-affiliated students within the Texas A&M University System. Formed in 2011 by the Board of Regents, the Office of Veteran and Military Services is a continuation of the System’s “Project Military Friendly.”
The mission of the Office of Veteran and Military Services is to enhance the collaboration and communication of the Texas A&M University System campuses to facilitate veteran success by focusing on academic, financial, well being, and career support of veterans in higher education institutions and agencies within the Texas A&M University System.
Director, Office of Veteran and Military Services, Texas A&M University System
Col. Gerald “Jerry” L. Smith ’82, USMC (Ret.)
979-845-3161
gsmith@tamu.edu
Col. Smith served for thirty years as a US Marine Artillery Officer, holding six command tours with two combat tours (Iraq 2003 & Afghanistan 2007). Other military assignments included eight years in higher education: three years as the Marine Instructor at Rice and Prairie View A&M; one year instructing at the USMC Command & Staff College; and four years as the TAMU Professor of Naval Science from 2008-2012. He earned a Master of Science in Strategic Studies from the National War College, a Master of Science in Military Studies from the U.S. Marine Corps Command & Staff College, and a Master of Arts in International Relations from Troy State University. Col. Smith’s Bachelor of Arts is in Political Science from Texas A&M University.
As the OVMS Director, he facilitates support, collaboration and communication between the 11 Texas A&M University System campuses that enroll nearly 4,000 student veterans and over 8,000 military family members. Col. Smith has raised nearly $15 million to support Aggie student veteran scholarships and programs. He received the Congressional Veterans Commendation Award from Congressman Bill Flores (2014), and the TAMU John J. Koldus III Faculty & Staff Achievement Award (2015).
Col. Smith and his wife Cindy ’83 enjoy scuba diving, boating, fishing and spending time with their three granddaughters.
Associate Director, Office of Veteran and Military Services, Texas A&M University System
Monteigne S. Long ‘02
979-458-6355
mlong@tamu.edu
Monteigne Long is a Gold Star wife and military spouse who has been working with student veterans in higher education since 2010, when colleges and universities saw a large influx of Post-9/11 veterans. Prior to joining The Texas A&M University System, Monteigne served as the Veterans Coordinator at Antelope Valley College in Lancaster, CA, and opened the first Veterans Resource Center at California State University, Northridge. She received a bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Texas A&M University and a master’s degree in Postsecondary Administration and Student Affairs from the University of Southern California. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in Higher Education Administration at Texas A&M University.
As Associate Director, Monteigne conducts the daily operations of the Office of Veteran & Military Services, to include facilitating the collaboration and communication among the other System offices, state agencies, and 11 campuses of the Texas A&M University System that enroll nearly 4,000 student veterans and over 8,000 military family members.
Monteigne is an alumna of the 2022 George W. Bush Institute Stand-To Veteran Leadership Program. Additionally, she serves on numerous committees and boards. She is the Co-Chair of the Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education (NASPA) Veterans Knowledge Community and an Advisory Council member for HigherEdMilitary. She was recognized in 2023 by the University of Chicago and received an Outstanding Educator Award for her excellence in teaching and compassion for students. In 2018, Monteigne received several awards and recognition for her service to the military-affiliated community in California, including Special Congressional Recognition from Congressman Steve Knight, along with a Commendation from Los Angeles County Supervisor, Kathleen Barger.
Monteigne and her husband, Ron, a Marine Corps Veteran, have a daughter.
Jack Brindle, Communication & Outreach Graduate Assistant
Jack Brindle, ’22, is a Master of International Affairs candidate at the Bush School of Government and Public Service, focusing on national security and diplomacy. He graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in International Studies. While in undergraduate studies, he was an active member of the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets.
Jack works as the Office of Veteran & Military Services Communication & Outreach Graduate Assistant. In this capacity, he is responsible for much of the outward communication of the OVMS, including with regional institutions, and local and national constituents. Further, Jack manages the social media platforms and website of the Office of Veteran & Military Services. Jack comes from a family with strong military ties, who have taught him the importance of duty to one’s country and service to others.
With this lesson at heart, Jack is eager to serve the veteran community of the Texas A&M University System. Upon completion of his master’s degree, he aspires to serve the nation in a diplomatic role.
Joshua Sutherlin, Data & Assessment Graduate Assistant
Josh Sutherlin is a Master of International Affairs candidate at the Bush School of Government and Public Service. He graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in International Studies.
Josh works as the Office of Veteran & Military Services Data & Assessment Graduate Assistant. In this role, he compiles, tracks, and publishes data surrounding military-affiliated students to enhance assessment and programming to promote efficient student success results. Josh served on Active Duty in the United States Marine Corps and is currently in the Reserves. He has a passion for serving the military community.
Upon graduation, Josh is wants to continue his service to the United States in any form.