Columbia State’s Kelvin Webster, college success advisor for the Williamson Campus, was recently honored as a recipient of the 2024 Chancellor’s Commendation for Military Veterans.

Established in 2020 by Tennessee Board of Regents Chancellor Flora W. Tydings, the Chancellor’s Commendation for Military Veterans recognizes military veterans each year from each of Tennessee’s community and technical colleges to honor the service, bravery and sacrifices of military veterans in campus communities.

“Our college communities are strengthened by the veterans and active-duty personnel on campus. The experiences and perspectives they bring are an important part of the broad diversity of people and backgrounds on our campuses that benefits everyone,” Dr. Tydings said.

“We are committed wholeheartedly to serving our veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard members, reserve members, military spouses and children. It’s a privilege to honor them, not only on Veterans Day but all year.”

Columbia State’s commitment to veterans includes a range of benefits and services for veterans and their families, including:

• Columbia State is approved for veteran educational benefits and works closely with the Department of Veterans Affairs and state-approving agencies to ensure that students’ benefits are used appropriately.
• Eligible military spouses may use the MyCAA (My Career Advancement Account) scholarship at Columbia State.
• Columbia State has also achieved VETS Campus certification by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission by meeting additional criteria for excellence standards and compliance for our military-affiliated community.

Recipients of the commendation are nominated by the respective college presidents, and Webster was one of 40 Tennesseans to receive the commendation.

“Kelvin has made significant contributions to both our nation and Columbia State, embodying the qualities of courage, integrity, duty and sacrifice,” said Dr. Janet F. Smith, Columbia State president. “Kelvin’s transition to Columbia State has been marked by the same level of dedication and service, with a strategic and student-focused commitment to achievement in a respectful, welcoming and supportive environment for all. He is committed to student success, and his leadership fosters respect and excellence in everyone he engages.”

Webster served for 25 years in the United States Air Force and Tennessee Air National Guard. As a Senior Master Sergeant (SMSgt E-8), he trained over 1,200 personnel, ensuring mission readiness for the 1,300-member 118th Airlift Wing. His role required deep responsibility, exceptional discipline, and unwavering commitment—traits that continue to define his work in higher education.

During his military service, Webster's leadership supported critical wartime missions during Iraq, Afghanistan, and the aftermath of 9/11. His areas of expertise included information management, human resources, information technology, education and training—all vital to the success of military operations. His work ensured that personnel had the tools, training and support they needed to carry out their missions.

Since joining Columbia State in 2015, Webster has served as a campus support specialist and academic advisor for the Williamson Campus, later expanding his role as an adjunct professor in 2019.

“I was truly blessed to serve my country for 25 years in the United States Air Force,” Webster said. “I am very appreciative and humbled to receive this recognition.”

Webster was presented a special TBR Challenge Coin by Smith on behalf of the chancellor. Challenge coins are a rich tradition in all branches of the military and signify special achievement, excellence, hard work, unit pride, respect and esprit de corps.

View the full list of 2024 Chancellor’s Commendation for Military Veterans recipients at www.tbr.edu.