November 11 is Veterans Day, a time to to honor those who served in the armed forces and made sacrifices for our freedom. During this national day of reflection, we are spotlighting two leaders of the newly established Military/Veteran Faculty & Staff Association (MVFSA). Read on to learn more about their military journeys—and how they are working to support and uplift our university’s community of active military, veterans and families. 

Richard Costa
Rank: Sergeant, U.S. Army (1988-1998)
MVFSA Role: Vice Chair

Director of Construction Services Richard Costa reflects on his experiences transitioning back into civilian life, and how he aims to support his fellow veterans through this process by providing camaraderie and resources through the MVFSA. We sat down with him to learn more about his good work in Project Management and Construction Services, his passion for helping others, and some fun events he has in store for his fellow members. Read Richard’s story.

Darren Hale
Rank: Commander, U.S. Navy Civil Engineer Corps (1999-2017)
MVFSA Role: Chair

Director of Facilities Services, Darren Hale shares his experiences traveling across the globe while serving in the U.S. Navy—and how he found his way to the Forty Acres. We caught up with the proud Cockerel School of Engineering alum (M.C.E Civil Engineering, ’05) to get his insight on the value veterans and active military members bring to UT Austin, and how he plans to strengthen their connections with each other and the university through the MVFSA community.  Read Darren’s story.

More about the Military/Veteran Faculty & Staff Association

Established in Fall 2022, the Military/Veteran Faculty and Staff Association is a University Resource Group that facilitates the inclusion of veterans, military members and their families into the university community in order to enhance recruitment, retention, networking, camaraderie and professional development in collaboration with other organizations. Visit the MVFSA website to learn more.