John Ryder, RCSJ’s director of student affairs and military services, was recognized in October 2024 as a 2024 Veteran Champion of the Year in Higher Education. Danielle Crawford, RCSJ’s student affairs and military services compliance manager, nominated John for the award and presented it to him at the Nov. 11 Veterans Day event at RCSJ.​​

John Ryder, the Director of Student Affairs and Military Services at Rowan College of South Jersey (RCSJ), has dedicated his career to ensuring that no one is left behind. This is a principle he carried from his years in the U.S. Coast Guard into his current role. As a Gulf War veteran and former Petty Officer 3rd Class (E-4), Ryder's leadership at RCSJ has transformed the institution into a foundation of support for military students, earning the prestigious 2024 Veteran Champion of the Year in Higher Education Award.  

Ryder's commitment to student veterans has also earned RCSJ the designation of being a 2024-2025 Military Friendly School as well as a 2024 Military Spouse Friendly School. Throughout his eight years of service in the Coast Guard (1989-1997) a deep devotion to service and fellowship was instilled in him. Reflecting on his military experience, Ryder said, “I have always lived by the saying, never leave anyone behind. I carry that true to today by continuing to help those student veterans I serve and those veterans I come across." This mindset forms the principles of his work, where he strives to provide not only resources but also a sense of belonging to those transitioning from military to civilian life.   

In his role, Ryder oversees the Military Services Offices across both RCSJ campuses and serves as a Department of Veterans Affairs School Certifying Official. His work ensures that military students and local veterans have access to the benefits and support they need to succeed, both academically and personally. He also advises and mentors RCSJ's Student Veterans of America chapter, fostering a strong community that celebrates the shared bonds of military service. Ryder explained, “It feels good to give back from one veteran to another. It's a brotherhood and sisterhood. We enjoy what we do, taking great pride in it too."  

Despite the various challenges veterans face, Ryder remains committed to his mission to support them. This dedication is reflected in the programs and initiatives he has implemented, such as the “Boots to Business" entrepreneurial education and training program sponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). “It was a good program," Ryder stated, "If we helped one person with it, we succeeded." Additionally, Ryder and his team helped establish partnerships with the county Veterans Affairs Office, local Veterans Service Officers, and local veteran resources. 

Ryder's leadership also represents the best of what it means to serve, not just in the military, but in his community. Recently, he established a way to recognize both the students and employees of RCSJ who have served in the military through the “Military Wall of Fame." Each campus has a designated wall showcasing the names of RCSJ's military service members past, present, and future along with photographs and branch flags for each branch of the U.S. Military.  

Ryder shared his gratitude for the contributions RCSJ extends to its military service members, “We've made some great strides over the years. I'm thankful that President Keating and the Board of Trustees recognizes what we're doing, and they continue to support us with whatever needs we've had." 

For more information about RCSJ's military services visit rcsj.edu/Veterans​ ​