Meet our military education team

VP, Military Outreach
USN (veteran)
571-358-3100
jaldrich@apus.edu

John Aldrich oversees all military and veteran activities and is the main liaison between the university and Department of Defense agencies. He has been with the university since 2006 and has previously held the positions of: associate vice president of military and community college outreach; director for military outreach; west region senior manager for military outreach; and education coordinator for California and Hawaii.

Prior to joining AMU, John served as an education services specialist for Marine Corps Base Twenty-Nine Palms California; director of career services and job placement at the Technical College of the Lowcountry, Beaufort, South Carolina; and education specialist for Navy College Programs, Sicily, Italy. In addition, he served as academic advisor for undecided students and student athletes at the University of Rhode Island and as a naval hospital corpsman (USN), Fleet Marine Forces.

John served as the 2008 chair for the Joint Spouses Conference Hawaii, and received the 2004 College Administrator of the Year award from the State of South Carolina. He is currently the Vice President of the National Association of Institutions for Military Education Services.

John earned a B.S. in Human Sciences and Services and an M.S. in College Student Personnel from the University of Rhode Island. He is also a 2014 graduate of the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association Leadership Forum.

AVP, Military Outreach, Eastern Region
CMSgt, USAF (retired)
478-390-7202
droby@apus.edu

Dan joined the university he 2005. He retired from the Air Force, serving for 27 years and attaining the rank of Chief Master Sergeant (E-9). During his years on active duty he attended 11 different universities, completing two AAS degrees through the Community College of the Air Force, a B.A. in Human Resource Management and his M.A. in Management at AMU.

In addition to getting great enjoyment out of helping military members achieve their educational goals, Dan loves spending time with his family and watching his grandkids grow up. When not doing that, he spends time riding his bicycle and working on his golf game.

Director, Military Outreach, Eastern Region
MSgt, USAF (retired)
229-539-6042
dallen@apus.edu

Dan joined American Public University System in 2010. He served 24 years in the Air Force as an Inventory Management Specialist, a Military Training Manager, and his final 15 years assigned to five different positions within Air Force Recruiting.

Dan earned his B.S. degree in Organizational Leadership from Mountain State University and his M.S. degree in Sports Management from American Military University. Fully aware of the importance in completing educational goals, he is ready to assist anyone that is up to the rewarding challenge to pursue online education.

Dan is married to his wife Debbie and they are both extremely proud of their son, Jared. Dan's hobbies include playing golf, traveling, and watching his son coach on the varsity football team at IMG Academy.

Military Education Senior Manager
1st Sgt, USA (retired)
210-540-0037
calsleben@apus.edu

Chuck joined American Public University System in 2011. He served over 20 years in the Army as a tank commander, PATRIOT missile & phased array RADAR technician, First Sergeant and operations NCO. Additionally, Chuck spent time as a military science instructor at Fort Bliss, Texas and Fresno State University.

Prior to joining APUS, Chuck earned a Bachelor of Applied Science from Wayland Baptist University, served as Area Operations Manager for Loomis, and worked as an Academic Advisor at Wayland Baptist University.

Both Chuck and his wife Maria enjoy spending time seeking new destinations around the world, and both are avid travelers.

Military Education Senior Manager
808-384-7172
nbarnes@apus.edu

Nicole joined the American Public University System in 2018 bringing with her over seven years of experience in higher education. Throughout her higher education background, Nicole has had extensive experience assisting and supporting service members, their families, and civilians in pursuit of their educational goals.

Nicole earned her B.S. in Psychology from George Mason University. She is currently seeking a Master’s degree in Psychology. Although Nicole has lived in various locations, she has lived in Hawaii for 15 years and currently resides in Honolulu on Oahu.

In her free time, Nicole enjoys reading, spending sunny days lounging in a beachside hammock or indulging in BBQ in the company of friends and family. Outside of her passion for education, she also has a passion for travel and a love of dogs, especially her Boston Terrier, Diesel.

Military Education Senior Manager
706-366-9043
lbinger@apus.edu

Lisa joined American Public University System in 2015. She is proud to hold more than 9 years of experience in higher education, working primarily with military affiliated and veteran students. Prior to joining APUS, Lisa was an Administrative Support Manager for the Fort Benning Education Center and the Site Director for Central Texas College at Fort Benning, GA.

Lisa earned her B.S. in Health Administration from University of Phoenix, a Graduate Certificate in Neuroleadership, and a M.A. in Management with American Military University.

Lisa and her husband are both originally from Wisconsin although they currently call Tennessee home. In her free time, Lisa enjoys spending time with her family, and likes reading, gardening, kayaking, and camping.

Military Education Senior Manager
MSG, USA (retired)
540-336-2872
ebrown@apus.edu

Eddie joined American Public University System in 2017, having previously served 20 years in the Army and his final 12 years within Army Retention.

Before coming to APUS, Eddie worked for five years at the Fort Gordon Education Center as the Troy University representative. He is thrilled to continue his passion of supporting students in the pursuit of their academic and professional dreams.

Eddie graduated from Baker College with a bachelor’s degree in Business. He earned an M.A. in Information Technology Management from Webster University.

Eddie currently resides in Georgia, and when he isn’t representing APUS, he can usually be found walking, traveling, or riding his motorcycle. He enjoys spending time with his lovely wife, two children and walking his fun-loving beagle, Max.

Military Education Senior Manager
907-390-0598
zcooper@apus.edu

Dr. Zayda Cooper joined the American Public University System (APUS) in 2020. She is a veteran with thirteen years of Active Duty service in the United States Air Force as a Public Health Technician. She then went on to work four years with the State of Alaska, Department of Health and Social Services.

She holds a B.S. in Public Health, a Master of Public Health degree from American Military University, and a Doctor of Public Health degree from Capella University.

Originally from Long Island, New York, Dr. Cooper currently resides in Palmer, Alaska and enjoys spending any free time with her husband and three daughters.

Director, Military Outreach, Western Region
SMSgt, USAF (retired)
719-360-6979
eedwards@apus.edu

Earl joined the American Public University System in 2014. He retired from the Air Force in 2013, after serving 26 years and attaining the rank of Senior Master Sergeant (E-8).

After entering active duty from his hometown of Knoxville, TN, Earl attended four different universities, completing two A.A.S. degrees in Electronic Systems Technology and Human Resource Management from the Community College of the Air Force and ultimately graduated with a B.S. in Business Administration from Trident University.

Earl resides in Colorado Springs with his wife and 7 children. During his free time, he enjoys camping, fishing, and playing golf.

Military Education Senior Manager
USMC (veteran)
304-590-1961
rhassinger@apus.edu

Rob joined American Public University System in 2009 where he started in the student services department before moving to his current position. Rob served four years in the United States Marine Corps as a Bulk Fuel Specialist and currently resides in Spotsylvania, VA.

Rob holds a B.S. in Legal Studies and an MBA from American Military University (AMU.) Rob's interests include watching the Baltimore Orioles and spending time with his family and friends. He is dedicated to providing exceptional service in order to help our nation’s service members reach their academic goals.

Military Education Senior Manager
757-375-6844
rhhaynes@apus.edu

Rebecca joined American Public University System in 2009. Previously, Rebecca served as an education advisor for the United States Navy and education coordinator for Troy University. She also serves as an adjunct faculty member at AMU.

Rebecca originally hails from southeast Ohio and is a graduate of West Liberty State College where she received her B.A. in Business Administration. She received her M.S. in Management from Troy University.

She currently resides in Virginia Beach, VA. During her free time, Rebecca enjoys being with her husband and children.

Military Education Senior Manager
MSgt, USAF (retired)
304-919-9561
bmiller@apus.edu

Brian joined American Public University System (APUS) in 2005. Prior to that, he served 25 years and attained the rank of Master Sergeant (E-7) in the U.S. Air Force. His many responsibilities included work as a Recruiting Service Flight Chief providing leadership, training, guidance, direction, and motivation to an Air Force recruiting team.

Brian earned a B.S. in Human Resources Management from Mount Olive College, Mount Olive, NC. He is an active member of the clergy in community activities and enjoys reading, fishing, working out, and gardening. His leisure past time is watching professional and college football. No. 1 Florida State fan!

Military Education Senior Manager
254-226-5247
emills@apus.edu

Esra joined the American Public University System in 2020, bringing with her over 10 years of experience in higher education mainly assisting and supporting active duty service members, veterans and their families. Prior to joining APUS, Esra was an Assistant Director with Central Michigan University at Fort Riley, a Site Director with the University at Oklahoma at Fort Benning, and an Administrative Support Coordinator with the Army Education Center also at Fort Benning, GA.

Esra earned a Master of Human Relations and a Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Diversity and Development from the University of Oklahoma and a Bachelor of Arts in English/ American Studies with a Minor in German Studies from the Eberhard Karls University in Tuebingen, Germany.

As a military spouse of 10 years, she is passionate about helping others in the community further their education. Esra and her husband, who is active duty in the Army, enjoy spending time with their children, traveling, working out and hiking.

Military Education Senior Manager
SGM, USA (retired)
304-590-1037
emounts@apus.edu

Ed joined American Public University System in 2010 and serves as a Senior Manager, Military Outreach & the Western States Liaison to National Guard members and Reservists. He retired from the Army having served over 24 years and attaining the rank of Sergeant Major. He is a graduate of the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy and earned his M.A. in Management from American Military University.He served in various locations throughout his time in service, including deploying in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

He enjoys helping all of our service members and transfer students achieve their educational goals. Ed and his family have been all over the world and now happily live in Geronimo, OK, where he had served as the city Mayor. He continues to serve his local communities and the Army through many volunteer organizations, including his appointment to the Army Chief of Staff Retired Soldier Council. Ed’s main focus off-work is always his family; his hobbies include hunting, fishing, and restoring classic cars.

Military Education Senior Manager
706-562-3928
aomer@apus.edu

Alyssa joined the American Public University System in 2018 bringing with her over six years of experience in military education. Since 2012, she has worked at the Fort Benning Education Center as an Administrative Support Manager. From there, she accepted a position with Central Texas College as a Site Registrar where she stayed over 3 years, further moving on to become the Site Director for the University of Oklahoma at Fort Benning.

Alyssa earned her AA in Liberal Studies, BS in Business Management, completed two Graduate Certificate programs dealing with Human Resources and Counseling and finally, earned her Masters of Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma in 2018.

Alyssa has been married to her husband of 16 years, and a mother to 5 amazing kids. In her free time, she enjoys the beach, trying new foods, traveling, attending festivals, and reading.

Associate Vice President, Military Outreach, Western Region
USA (veteran)
254-392-9799
tnavarrete@apus.edu

Tonda joined American Public University System in 2010. Originally from Michigan, she was an Army Staff Sergeant with eight years of service. Following her time on active duty, she pursued her education, reinvented her career, and took great pride in raising her three daughters.

Tonda started at the university on the Military Assistance Team, processing military Tuition Assistance and Veterans Benefits. She became the team’s manager in 2013, focusing on process improvement and regulatory compliance relating to the DoD and Veterans Affairs; always the advocate for military-affiliated students. In 2014, she joined the Military Outreach Team as the Director of Team West, working primarily out of Fort Hood, TX.

Currently, Tonda is the Associate Vice President of the Western Region with Military Outreach. Her duties include the oversight of military and veteran Senior Education Managers within the 23 states of the Western Region. She and her team assist service members in all branches, on all duty status’, to include transitioning service members, military spouses, veterans, and dependents. The team focuses on complete understanding of education benefits and the successful completion of educational goals.

Tonda completed an MBA with AMU and is looking forward to finish the Master’s in Business Analytics with AMU.

Military Education Senior Manager
MCPO, US Navy (retired)
915-330-8784
lpaquian@apus.edu

Laura joined American Public University System (APUS) in 2016. She proudly served 30 years in the U. S. Navy where she attained the rank of Master Chief Petty Officer (E-9). While on active duty, she was a Career (Vocational and Education) Counselor, serving thousands of enlisted sailors.

While in the Navy, Laura attended community colleges and two universities, ultimately attaining her B.S. in Workforce Education and Development from Southern Illinois University, and her MA in Organizational Leadership from Brandman University.

After her Navy service, Laura continued her work with veterans and military families at Fleet and Family Support Center, and as the Student Veterans Coordinator at the University of San Diego.

Laura is a staunch advocate for our service men and women, veterans, and their family members, and she knows first-hand the challenges of being in uniform and attaining a degree.

In her spare time, Laura enjoys cooking, gardening and reading.

Military Education Senior Manager
619-457-2558
lrovere@apus.edu

Loren has been with American Public University System since 2020 and recently relocated to Pensacola, FL from San Diego, CA to continue working with AMU students. She is a student centric leader with over 10 years of experience working in higher education and with the military. Loren has a passion for education and doing what she can to help others and give back to the community.

Loren earned her B.A. from Arizona State University in Business with a Concentration in Communications and her M.A. in Education with a Concentration in Higher Education from Ashford University.

Outside of work, Loren enjoys spending time with her dog Gunnar, baking/cooking, and is an ASU Sun Devil football fan. She also has a passion for traveling and experiencing different countries and cultures throughout the world.

Military Education Senior Manager
757-335-2779
hsharpe@apus.edu

Heidi joined American Public University System (APUS) in June 2015. She has 16 years of experience working in military/distance education. Her involvement with the military started as the daughter of an Army Sergeant Major and in the role of a Navy wife for 25 years.

Heidi earned her B.S. in Human Services Counseling with a minor in Gerontology from Old Dominion University. In the intervening period of completing her degree, Heidi worked for Fleet and Family Services, providing support to military service members and their families.

Heidi lives in Jacksonville, N.C. In her free time she enjoys traveling, music, spending time outdoors, and meeting new people. She has two grown children, two grandchildren, and a dog Rusty.

Military Education Senior Manager
304-620-2762
jwaller@apus.edu

Jill joined American Public University System in 2016. Previously, Jill worked as an Army Education Counselor at Fort Irwin and Camp Victory, assisting service members, veterans, and civilians with all aspects of higher education.

Jill earned her B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies and a California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from Western Governors University. She has taught elementary, middle, and high school in the U.S. and overseas.

She is originally from Southern California but currently resides in Las Vegas, NV. In her free time, she likes to travel, read, paint, and improve her photography skills.

Military Education Senior Manager
USMC (veteran)
760-5-5-1322
jwarhol@apus.edu

Joe joined American Public University System in December 2022, bringing with him several years of experience working in higher education. He served in the United States Marine Corps for 13 years in various locations as an Engineer Equipment Operator, Team Leader, Platoon Sergeant, Battalion Training and Operations Chief, Leadership Development Deputy Director, Public Relations Chief, and as an Education and Career Advisor for transitioning Marines and sailors.

Joe earned a B.A. in Sports Business from W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University. He is now eager to start and complete a Master’s degree from American Military University.

Joe is a service member and veteran centric servant leader and champion. In his free time, he enjoys working out, playing guitar, traveling, and spending time with his wife and dog.

Senior Manager, Military Outreach & the Eastern States Liaison to National Guard members and Reservists
MSgt (Ret), USAF
803-528-3077
mwilliams@apus.edu

Mik has been with American Military University since 2014 and currently serves as a Senior Manager, Military Outreach & the Eastern States Liaison to National Guard members and Reservists. Mik retired from the United States Air Force in 2004 after 20 years of service. While in the Air Force, he supplemented his quest for self-improvement by earning a variety of college degrees including three separate CCAF degrees in Electronics Technology, Personnel Administration and Instructor Systems Technology. His educational pursuits culminated with earning a dual M.A. degree in Management and Human Resource Development from Webster University in 1998.

He married his wife Laura in 1986. They live in Savannah and enjoy traveling, watching football and spending time with their five grandchildren whenever possible.

Military Education Senior Manager
Cell: 720-814-7516/Desk: 703-334-3292
jvdriet@apus.edu

Jack comes from a long line of decorated Military veterans and has a personal understanding of the sacrifice that our soldiers, sailors, and airmen have made to our country. Jack is deeply driven to serve our veterans because they have chosen a career serving us.

Jack joined AMU/APU in 2009. Prior to joining the Military Outreach Team, Jack spent 12 years with the University becoming an expert of transfer credit policy. Jack’s expertise in transfer credit allows him to offer his students unique insight on the transferability of training and education.

Jack earned his Bachelor of Science in Communication with Concentration in Public Relations and a Minor in Journalism at Radford University in beautiful southwestern Virginia. Jack lives in the Denver area and is married with young children. They are sure to ski as much as possible during the sunny Colorado winters. Jack and his wife are musicians and can be found smiling and performing in the Front Range area.

Military Education Senior Manager
702-882-8429
mwheatley@apus.edu

Michael is a retired Marine. He currently works for American Public University System as a Senior Manager with Military Outreach.

Michael previously earned a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, a Bachelor of Business Administration, and a Master of Business Administration with American Public University. He is currently enrolled at AMU to earn a Political Science degree.

Michael is married to Jennifer with one daughter named Zoeie and a Chiweenie named Monster Leviathan. They live in Las Vegas. In their free time, they attend concerts, baseball games, and run organized races to earn shiny medals.