Campus Life

Texas A&M-Galveston Student Honored With Veteran Excellence Award

From left to right, Dr. Monteigne Long, Ash Reyes and Col. Michael E. Fossum

On Wednesday, August 6, the Texas A&M University System presented Ash Reyes ’26 with the 2025 Student Veteran Excellence Award, recognizing his exceptional service and advocacy in support of student veterans.

The Texas A&M System awards the Veteran Excellence Award to no more than two students annually who demonstrate outstanding service to campus and community, embody core values of the university and advocate for student veterans or veteran-related issues. Col. Michael E. Fossum, vice president of Texas A&M, chief operating officer of the Texas A&M University at Galveston and superintendent of the Texas A&M Maritime Academy, and Dr. Monteigne Long, director of Veteran and Military Services for the Texas A&M University System, presented Reyes with the award, which included a plaque, challenge coin and $200 for the Galveston campus’ Student Veterans Association chapter. 

Reyes is a Marine Corps veteran who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in marine biology with a double minor in maritime studies and diving technologies and methods in the College of Marine Sciences and Maritime Studies. 

“I’m absolutely honored,” Reyes said. “Texas A&M University and the system as a whole are very veteran-focused institutions. We have a very proud military tradition here, and there is no shortage of veterans. Just the fact that I was nominated – I am so honored.”

Reyes currently serves as the treasurer of the Student Veterans Association on campus, where he plays a pivotal role in the organization, ensuring the success of initiatives that support student veterans while fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie. Reyes also works for the 1973 Center, a department dedicated to strengthening the campus community, and is a Community Leader for the Campus Living and Learning. In this role, he bridges the gap between the veteran community and the broader student body, creating opportunities for collaboration and mutual support. Reyes’ ability to connect these two spheres has significantly enhanced the resources and networks available to student veterans, ensuring their academic and personal success.

“Mr. Reyes’ unwavering dedication to his fellow student veterans and his embodiment of our Aggie core values made him an outstanding candidate for this honor,” said Andrew Vierkant, library supervisor at the Jack K. Williams Library on campus and Reyes’ nominator. “He has consistently demonstrated excellence in service, advocacy and community building, both on and off campus. He has a deep sense of discipline, integrity and selflessness, qualities that shine through in everything he does. His efforts have left a lasting impact on the student veteran community at Texas A&M-Galveston, and I am confident he will continue to inspire and uplift those around him.”

Reyes is entering his final undergraduate year and looks forward to receiving his Aggie Ring, made possible by a scholarship from Betty Settlemeyer. He plans to apply to graduate school and said, “I’m excited to get out there and show the world what Aggie values look like.”

View past winners of the Student Veteran Excellence Award from The Texas A&M University System.