About Us

On October 30, 2009, Youngstown State University officially dedicated "Armed Forces Boulevard," a section of street running from Fifth Avenue to the YSU Veterans Plaza, as a permanent tribute to our men and women in uniform. This dedication, even today, is especially felt in the YSU Office of Veterans Affairs. The Office of Veterans Affairs was established January 2009 and reports directly to the Associate Vice President of Student Experience.
 
We work to assist YSU students who have served or are currently serving in the armed forces of the United States of America in attaining their educational goals, and we are continually improving and working toward being a "one-stop" office for all YSU student veterans. The Student Veterans Resource Center (which opened September 2014 and dedicated to Vietnam War Veteran and YSU alumni, Carl A. Nunziato May 2018) helps military veterans and service members transition to college and succeed as university students.
 
It is yet another step in YSU's continued commitment to serve veteran and military students. The Office of Veterans Affairs is located on campus in the Carl A. Nunziato Veterans Resource Center, 633 Wick Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio.

Meet our Staff

The Office of Veterans Affairs at Youngstown State University is located in the Veterans Resource Center at 633 Wick Ave, Youngstown, OH 44502. Please contact any one of our office staff with your questions, comments, or concerns.


 

Patrick "Rick" Williams

Patrick Williams

Director of Veterans Affairs

"I retired from the U.S. Army in 2013 with the rank of Major after 25 years of honorable service. As the Director of the Veterans Resource Center and the university's primary point of contact for military-affiliated students, I am dedicated to supporting veterans, active-duty service members, reservists, National Guard members, and eligible dependents as they navigate their educational benefits and pursue their academic goals.

It is a privilege to assist our military-connected community in understanding available resources, maximizing their benefits, and achieving success both in and out of the classroom. Whether you are transitioning from military service, returning to school after many years, or pursuing the next step in your career, I am committed to helping you make the most of your educational journey."

A Personal Message to Our Veterans

To all veterans and service members: thank you for your service, sacrifice, and commitment to our nation. Transitioning from military life to higher education can be both exciting and challenging, but you do not have to navigate it alone. The discipline, resilience, leadership, and dedication that helped you succeed in uniform are the same qualities that can help you thrive in the classroom and beyond. My goal is to ensure you have the support, resources, and guidance needed to achieve your academic and professional goals. I encourage you to reach out, ask questions, and take full advantage of the opportunities available to you. We are honored to serve those who have served.

(330) 941-2506
plwilliams@ysu.edu


 

Jeremy Firm

Jeremy Firm

Assistant Director of Veterans Affairs

"Following graduation from high school, I served four years in the United States Marine Corps. After which I returned home and began utilizing GI Bill® benefits to obtain a bachelors degree in communication studies and a minor in business here at YSU. During my time at YSU, I was grateful to participate in the work-study program at the YSU Office of Veterans Affairs for three years. I am now privileged to work at the same office full-time and excited to serve our military-connected population. Please don't hesitate to contact me!"

(330) 941-1585
jafirm@ysu.edu


 

Ms. Melanie Paez

Ms. Melanie Paez

"I’m a first-year graduate student in the School Psychology program at Youngstown State University. After earning my bachelor’s degree in early childhood education in 2024, I began working in special education, where most of my professional experience lies. I’m passionate about serving students and walking alongside them, offering academic, mental health, and professional guidance. At YSU Office of Veterans Affairs, I look forward to supporting student veterans and military-connected families and helping people build on their strengths."

(330) 941-2547

mpaez@student.ysu.edu

 

VA Work Study Students

The Carl A. Nunziato Veterans Resource Center at YSU is authorized up to 6 VA Work Study Students. If you are interested in working as a VA Work Study Student at the Center, please contact the office for more information.