In recognition of Military Appreciation Month, the U of A proudly honors the service, sacrifice and ongoing contributions of veterans and military members within our campus community. Their leadership, dedication and commitment to excellence continue to strengthen our institution. Observed each May, Military Appreciation Month is a time to reflect on and express gratitude for the courage, service and selfless commitment of all who have worn the uniform of the U.S. Armed Forces.

In this employee spotlight, for Military Appreciation Month, we recognize Dylan Hollums for his dedicated military service and commitment to the U of A. He has served in both the U.S. Air Force Reserve and currently serves as a captain in the Arkansas Air National Guard. Hollums was inspired to join the military by the opportunity to pursue higher education through the GI Bill, a decision that continues to shape his path in public service and leadership. In the Q&A below, Hollums shares insights about his military journey, his evolving roles at the university and how his service experience continues to influence his work and growth.

What is your current position at the U of A?

Project manager for the Arkansas Alumni Association.

How long have you worked at the university?

Six months (December 2024) — previously worked as an emergency dispatcher (911 call center) for UAPD in 2007-08.

What branch of the military did you serve in, and what was your rank (current or at the time of separation)?

U.S. Air Force Reserve 2001-2007 (Tinker AFB, Oklahoma); currently Arkansas Air National Guard-188th Wing, Fort Smith; captain.

What inspired you to join the military?

The opportunity to further my secondary education with the GI Bill.

How long did you serve, and where were you stationed?  

Tinker AFB, Oklahoma. Currently, Arkansas Air National Guard-188th Wing, Fort Smith.

What led you to pursue a career in higher education or your current field?

Federal tuition assistance offset some of the cost to obtain my M.B.A. from the University of Arkansas, Grantham.

How have your military skills or experiences contributed to your success, and in what ways have they enhanced your work with students, staff or faculty?

I applied my Six Sigma/Greenbelt training toward my M.B.A. in project management.

What is one of your most meaningful memories from your time in the military?

Deployment(s) to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2010 and 2012.

What do Military Appreciation Month and Memorial Day mean to you personally? 

I think Military Appreciation Month is an important way to recognize the different paths veterans have taken in their post-military careers.

How do you stay connected to the military or veteran community?

Serving in the Arkansas Air National Guard, 188th Wing-Fort Smith and the Armed Forces Alumni Society (AFAS) through the Alumni Association.

What advice would you give to other veterans or former military members entering the civilian workforce?

Don't turn down any veteran-related service organizations that can help you achieve your higher education goals, such as the Veteran and Military-Affiliated Student Center and the Syracuse University Institute for Veterans & Military Families.

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About the Armed Forces Employee and Colleague Resource Group: The AFECRG is a voluntary, employee-led organization that fosters a university community grounded in the principles of equal opportunity. We promote mutual respect, celebrate the contributions of faculty and staff, and support professional growth. Our group is committed to nurturing a culture of collaboration and providing opportunities that advance career development. Through community engagement, cultural enrichment, career advancement and holistic care, we empower employees and contribute to the university's goals of research excellence, student success and becoming an employer of choice.

To know more about the AFECRG or if you are interested in joining the AFECRG, feel free to visit the Employee and Colleagues Resource Groups website.