by Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson

Each year, Texas A&M University-San Antonio holds a special Patriot Cord Ceremony for our graduating students who are serving in the military or are veterans. At this year’s ceremony today, May 16, one of the brave men and women we will honor is Cadet Command Sgt. Maj. Jose Michel.

Michel, 34, is a first-generation college student who is participating in the U.S. Army’s Green to Gold Active Duty Option Program, a two-year program that allows eligible enlisted soldiers to earn a commission as an Army officer by completing a baccalaureate degree or a two-year graduate degree.