Matthew Beer named as Carson College military, veteran affairs manager

Beer

By Sue McMurray, Carson College of Business

PULLMAN, Wash. – Matthew Beer has been selected as the new military and veteran affairs manager in the Carson College of Business’ Office of Graduate Programs.

Beer, a 1996 WSU graduate in political science, was commissioned into the U.S. Air Force from WSU’s AFROTC program. In his new position, he will facilitate the success of veteran students with the college, specifically, delivery of the Rucksacks to Backpacks to Boardroom program supporting online MBA and Executive MBA military and veteran students’ transition into military leadership roles or the civilian workforce.

Wealth of experience

Beer was previously the chair of the Department of Aerospace Studies at the University of Alaska Anchorage, where he led a team in recruiting, educating and training 50 cadets annually through college-level Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps. Under his leadership, enrollment increased by 60 percent in two years. He was also an adjunct online instructor for Air Force Command and Staff College, teaching graduate capstone courses for active duty military and civilian personnel in advanced air power studies.

Beer served 1996-2013 as an officer in the Air Force, holding positions as program manager, squadron operations officer, and flight instructor, leading and mentoring personnel in a range of responsibilities from curriculum development to combat flight operations.

From 2013 to 2015, he was squadron commander of the Air Force’s C-130 school house, leading a team of over 300 military, civilian and contract instructors to administer academic and flight training to 1,750 Department of Defense and international students.

“I am so excited to be back at Washington State University as a part of this important new program,” says Beer. “I’m committed to ensuring the success of Carson College’s deepening commitment to our military and veteran students.”

“Matt’s experience serving our country and leading military students, service members and veterans will bring critical insights to WSU and the Carson College concerning our service to and support of this important population of learners,” says Cheryl Oliver, Carson College assistant dean for online and graduate programs. “He will be a key contributor as we invest in deepening our military friendly commitment and reputation. I am thrilled to welcome Matt to our team as we work towards our mission of providing commensurate career opportunities for online MBA service members and veterans.”

Donor support strengthens veteran program, reputation

Tom and Lisa Thompson (’84 HRA) have made a five-year commitment supporting Beer’s work with online MBA and Executive MBA military and veteran students to successfully transition into military leadership roles or the civilian workforce. The Thompson’s investment also will enable other valuable programming and services, including a speaker series, coaching towards jobs and entrepreneurship, and relationships with organizations providing related services.

“Our long-run goal is to create a framework that will endure and expand to provide more and better services to our veterans both online and in person,” say Tom and Lisa. “We feel it is important to give back to those who have protected our country and made many sacrifices in the process. Providing support to help ensure their success while at WSU allows us to contribute in a very meaningful way.”

For more information about the WSU MBA and Executive MBA programs, visit the Carson College of Business MBA programs website.

 

Contact:

  • Sue McMurray, senior communications coordinator, Carson College of Business, 509-335-7578, sue.mcmurray@wsu.edu

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