Veterans Association VP Savier Heredia Gonzalez ’26 Builds Community
Military Service: E5 Sergeant, Infantry Team Leader, U.S. Army
Current Job: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Veteran’s Liaison
Major: Human Services & Community Justice
Program: John Jay Veterans Association
Mentors: Richard Pusateri, Director, Military and Veteran Services; Elton Beckett, Professor, Africana Studies; Eishelle Hargrave-Tillery, DSW, Lecturer, Africana Studies
Hometown: Bronx, NY
Career Aspiration: Financial Consultant
What was life like growing up?
My mom, Martha, my brother, Hector, and I immigrated to the United States from the Dominican Republic when I was six years old. We settled in the Bronx and mom raised us on her own. She worked two jobs and did everything she could to provide for us and put food on the table. During the week, she worked as a home attendant taking care of elderly people, and on weekends she worked at my aunt’s beauty salon. When she decided to bring us here, her goal was for us to get a good education. In the Dominican Republic, you don’t really see people going to university. Growing up, I witnessed how resilient and hardworking my mom was. It’s a trait I’m proud to have as well.
What inspired you to join the U.S. military?
When I was in high school, I saw a group of students in the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) in their junior ROTC uniforms, and I thought it was just the coolest uniform ever. I remember thinking, I want to wear a uniform like that with all those medals. Joining the Junior ROTC changed the trajectory of my life. Before joining, I was slacking off in school, I wasn’t getting good grades, and I had no idea what I wanted to do in the future. After joining the ROTC, I became focused and serious about my education. I fell in love with the discipline and structure that the military provided. It made me want to be a better person, all around. Before graduating from high school, I enlisted in the U.S. Army.
I loved the challenge, both physically and mentally, as a member of the U.S. Army. I knew I didn’t want to stay in the Bronx, and being in the military gave me an avenue to grow as a person, travel to different parts of the country, and meet great people. Being in the U.S. Army was also a way to give thanks to this country that has given my family so much. To have the opportunity to live in this country is a blessing and one my family doesn’t take for granted.
Basic training surpassed all my expectations. Before I went, I watched YouTube videos to have a better idea of what I was getting into, but it was so much more. Through all the training, both physical and technical, I felt like I was constantly learning more about myself while being pushed to a higher level. I physically got stronger and faster, and I learned how to work a weapons system and how to maneuver using a map and compass.
What was it like being an infantry team leader?
I was stationed in Fort Irwin, California, and then at Fort Drum, New York. As a sergeant, I would wake up around 5:30 in the morning, check the soldiers’ rooms, and ensure everything was in good order. Throughout the day, the mission was to maintain accountability among the infantry. When we had to go out to the field, I made sure that they had their gear and that their weapons were ready. I wanted my infantry to succeed in the field and accomplish the commander’s mission.
What was your best day in the U.S. Army?
When I achieved the rank of sergeant, it was such a proud moment. Growing up in the Bronx, I never expected to be a leader in anything, and when I first joined the Army, achieving the rank of sergeant seemed something so far-fetched. So, when it happened, I was extremely proud of myself.
Why John Jay?
Six months after leaving the Army, I reached out to a friend of mine from high school and the ROTC program, Sandro Villalona ’24. At the time, Sandro was a student at John Jay. He said, “Bro, come to John Jay. We have so many veterans here, and the community is very supportive. Put your GI Bill to use and get your degree.”
After my conversation with Sandro, I reached out to Richard Pusateri, Director of Military and Veteran Services. Richard is such a great guy, and it’s clear he wants to see military and veteran students succeed academically and professionally. During that call, he shared all the wonderful programs available to students and how tight-knit the military and veteran community is at John Jay. Once he said that, I knew I had to apply. What’s exciting is that I’m the first in my family to go to college. At John Jay, I’m not only uplifted as a veteran but also a first-gen student. My educational journey has been transformative.
How has the Military and Veteran Services Center helped you?
When I was transitioning from the military to student life, I felt a bit lost. I didn’t really know what to do in a college setting. What I realized was that I wasn’t alone on this journey. The longer I hung out in the military and veterans lounge, and had conversations with students who are from different branches of the military, the easier it was to feel at home at John Jay. There’s a real sense of community in the Center. There’s always someone to talk to or to give you guidance and encouragement. And, you’re met with zero judgment, which is so essential when you’re having tough conversations. It’s a group of people that will help you get back up when you’re down. What I’ve come to realize is that I am meant to be here. At John Jay, and with the support of the military and veterans’ community, I can accomplish my academic goals, do some good, and earn my degree.
What’s it like being vice president of the Veterans Association?
It’s been a lot of fun, and the experience has helped strengthen my leadership skills. I saw joining the Association as a good opportunity to support the veteran population at John Jay. I get to help usher in fun events and initiatives, and foster a sense of community among veterans, not just at John Jay, but beyond.
One of the things I’m most proud of is reestablishing a relationship with the New York Common Pantry—the Veterans Association previously worked with them pre-COVID. The goal was to do something on a humanitarian level to really help the local community at the ground level. In partnership with New York Common Pantry, we held our first soup kitchen program before Thanksgiving, serving 150 individuals. I hope to continue these types of community events in the coming months.
As vice president, I’m also trying to bridge the gap between John Jay College and private colleges in the city. We’re collaborating with Fordham University to bring veteran communities together on November 21 for a veteran’s social night. Student veterans from across the tri-state will be attending. It’s an excellent way to connect, have fun, and network.
What do you do as a veteran’s liaison with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs?
As a veteran’s liaison, I assist veterans, military-affiliated students, and students at John Jay who want to join the military. I provide them with guidance and access to the resources they need. Whether it’s just pointing them in the right direction, getting them the right forms, helping them file a claim, or letting them know what support services are available to them and their families, my role is to help them navigate the process to ensure that their needs are met.
What advice would you give military servicemembers considering John Jay?
Three words: Jump to it! Coming to John Jay was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. As a military servicemember, you’re coming to a college that is focused on criminal justice—the best criminal justice college in the country—which aligns perfectly with your military career. You’ll bring your unique perspective on being in the military into the classroom and transition into life at John Jay seamlessly. Come to John Jay, you won’t regret it.
What do you hope to be doing in 10 years?
After graduating with a Master of Business Administration, I’d love to work in the financial sector as a financial consultant. I hope to work with a leading company like Deloitte, Ernst & Young, or JPMorgan Chase. I want to help with the company’s investment and growth in new sectors, manage financial risks, and help them make better strategic decisions.
Please finish this sentence: Because of John Jay…
I’m a better student, veteran, advocate, and all-around human being.
