WHAT THE VETERANS ARE SAYING ABOUT HATS OFF FOR VETERANS
MALIK KOBE THOMAS, U.S. MARINES
I want to thank Hats Off For Veterans for providing a pathway for my professional development.
I served as a Military Police Officer in the Marine Corps, and after leaving the military, I decided to completely change career paths and pursue a career in Computer Hardware Engineering. I enrolled at Austin Community College to pursue an associate degree in Electrical Engineering and enlisted in the Navy Reserve as an Information Systems Technician (IT). Along the way, I discovered that Computer Science was a better fit for my interests and goals, so I changed my major.
After earning my associate degree in General Studies, I transferred to Texas State University to pursue a bachelor's degree in Computer Science, which I am currently working toward.
If I could share one piece of advice with fellow veterans who may need assistance, it would be this: Never hesitate to reach out for help, and never underestimate the power of connections. Sometimes, those connections can make all the difference.
Thank you, Hats Off For Veterans, for investing in my future and helping me take the next step toward achieving my goals.
PHILLIP MURRAY KAST, LPC, U.S. ARMY
I am a VietNam vet, serving 1970-71. I am also a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas (#73118) since 2014. I have had the distinct honor to have worked professionally with Lisa Adams and Hats Off for more than 10 years. There is no one I know that is more dedicated to veterans and their causes than Lisa. Her tireless efforts to seek out ways to bring hope and relief to veterans is both admirable and aspirational.
Most recently I was a volunteer therapist for over a year on one of her programs, Courage to Connect. Hats Off For Veterans is doing great work for the veterans and their families.
NOLAN B., U.S. ARMY — 2025 Higher Education Scholarship Recipient
I'm honored to receive the HOFV Higher Education Scholarship. It makes me extremely proud to be a United States veteran when we have organizations like HOFV willing to support us. Being nominated for this scholarship has truly moved me. I am a believer in karma and this gesture from HOFV has inspired me to help someone else in need. Thank you again to Hats Off For Veterans. I do not take this scholarship for granted! Read Nolan's story here.
JUNJIE D., U.S. ARMY — 2025 Higher Education Scholarship Recipient
Receiving the HOFV Scholarship is an incredible honor that allows me to continue my education without placing additional financial strain on my family. As a U.S. Army Reserve Financial Management Technician and a first-generation student, I’ve learned the value of resilience, discipline, and service. This scholarship not only supports my academic and professional goals in finance but also reinforces my commitment to giving back—by mentoring peers, supporting fellow veterans, and using my experience to uplift others. I’m deeply grateful for HOFV’s belief in my journey.
ANDREW C., U.S. ARMY
I am honored and humbled to have received a professional development grant to become a Certified Trauma Recovery Coach. This certification will help me fulfill my passion for helping veterans and first responders who struggle with the trauma(s) associated with their service. We are truly fortunate to have HOFV as a local resource, and I am grateful for their unwavering commitment to supporting veterans across the great State of Texas. Thank you!
TARENCE H., U.S. NAVY
I am truly honored to have recently received a professional development grant from Hats Off For Veterans. The Technical and Business Writing class I am registered to attend gives me the tools to continue my pursuit as a Business Consultant and that dream would not have been realized without the assistance of HOFV. This is truly a blessing.
REGGIE E., U.S. AIR FORCE
I am incredibly grateful to Hats Off For Veterans (HOFV) for their generous grant, which played a pivotal role in advancing my financial advising career. The certification I earned with their support has not only enhanced my ability to serve veterans and their families but also empowered me to provide greater value to business owners. With this new expertise, I am now better equipped to help businesses grow and maximize their potential. HOFV's commitment to veterans like myself is truly inspiring, and I am honored to be a part of their mission to support those who have served.
GRANT B., U.S. ARMY
I recently received a professional development grant to attend a leadership training. This training will undoubtedly enhance my skills and knowledge, contributing positively to my professional growth. Thank you to Hats Off For Veterans for supporting me.
KYLE P., U.S. ARMY — 2024 Higher Education Scholarship Recipient
I am deeply honored to be awarded the Master Sergeant Jimmie Quintero Scholarship. This generous support will greatly aid me in my academic journey, particularly in my studies of Aquatic Biology. As an Army veteran, I am profoundly grateful for resources like Hats Off for Veterans, which provide invaluable assistance and support. I am committed to making the most of this opportunity!