Kevin Ho now competes for votes to receive the national honor  

At the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, one who accepts the responsibility of bearing the torch ensures those around them are guided by its light. Nominated for Military Friendly’s Veteran of the Year® 2025, a national honor, student Kevin Ho holds the torch high, empowered by a mission to continue to serve others. 

Recently named Tennessee Veteran of the Year, Ho’s nomination demonstrates his endless dedication to supporting veterans and advocating for the student-veteran experience. Appreciative of the encouragement he received from all those involved with UT’s Veteran Success Center, Ho hopes to continue to provide that same level of service to others. 

“The Veteran Success Center became my anchor, providing critical guidance, resources, and a sense of belonging,” said Ho. “The road here was long and difficult, but what brings me true happiness now is helping others find their way, just as others once helped me.” 

The award recognizes veterans of strong character who have made a positive impact either while in uniform or after the completion of their service. Recipients are honored by Military Friendly, an organization dedicated to helping companies foster valuable employment opportunities for veterans who have transitioned into civilian life. The national winner will be determined by an online voting contest. Earlier this year, UT earned a Silver ranking as a Military Friendly School by the same organization.  

After leaving his role as an infantryman in the U.S. Army’s 10th Mountain Division, Ho faced difficulty with the transition to his next chapter. He explored different career paths before being accepted to UT, and credits Margie, his service dog, for providing the support he needed to pursue higher education.  

The resources and opportunities Kevin found at UT helped him not only stay on track but thrive. As the Student Veteran Coordinator at UT’s Veterans Success Center (VSC) and dedicated student leader, advocate, and member of the Veterans Impact Program, Kevin has played a pivotal role in enhancing the veteran student experience on campus — both through day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives. His contributions helped the center enhance its support services and foster a more veteran-friendly environment across campus. 

“Since Kevin’s enrollment into the Veteran Impact Program, he has shown dedication, perseverance, and commitment, not only to his own success, but to the success of others,” said Thomas Cruise, director of the Veterans Success Center. “He believes in our veteran scholars here at UT and ensures their voices are heard. Kevin truly embodies the volunteer spirit and the creed of shadowing oneself to give light to others.”

The VSC and the Veteran Impact Program are part of UT’s Division of Student Success.  

Since arriving at the university, Ho has taken on leadership roles across campus, serving as the Student Veterans of America UT chapter president, general member of the Interfraternity Council Judicial Board, and vice president of risk management for Delta Kappa Epsilon. 

Kevin’s leadership also extends into student government, where as a senator for UT’s Student Government Association (SGA) he introduced the Vol Veterans Student Tickets Bill — a student-driven piece of legislation designed to increase accessibility to athletic events for student veterans. Recognizing the importance of community engagement and school spirit in a successful college experience, Kevin advocated for equitable ticket access to provide veterans with the full range of student life at UT. 

“Kevin follows through with heart and a deep commitment to his fellow veterans,” said Erica Quin, associate director of the Veterans Success Center. “He’s got that Rocky Top grit and drive to lead lasting change, not just for himself, but for everyone around him.” 

Click here to vote for Kevin Ho as the Military Friendly Veteran of the Year 2025.