Discover Ray Toenniessen's transformative journey as he takes us from his early days as an ROTC cadet at Syracuse University to his influential role at the Daniello Institute for Veteran and Military Families. Ray shares his insights on how a generous $30 million endowment from alum Dan D’Aniello has revitalized the Institute, turning it into a powerful force for veteran empowerment. This episode reveals how veteran-owned businesses not only provide essential community support but also play a pivotal role in creating employment opportunities for veterans and their families.
Learn about the crucial steps veterans and military spouses can take to ensure smoother transitions to civilian careers. Ray delves into the unique challenges faced by military families, including the hurdles of certification transfers and frequent relocations, and discusses how remote work is emerging as a practical solution. Hear about the importance of early planning—ideally starting two years before leaving the military—and the progress seen in initiatives like the Army's Soldiers for Life program. Tune in to understand how comprehensive support systems, such as those at the D’Aniello Institute, are making a difference in the lives of veterans and their families. Visit ivmf.syracuse.edu to explore these valuable resources further.