Ryan Bauer, in only four short years he has paved the way for student veterans at Florida State University. He truly embodies the quote “leave it better than you found It”. Ryan did not start at Florida State like the traditional college student. He served in the U.S. Air Force as an F-15E Strike Eagle Crew Chief for four years. He was deployed to Al Dhafra Air Base in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, receiving the U.S. Air Force Achievement Medal for his efforts. Upon his departure from the Air Force, he set his sights to attend Florida State University. From service to classroom, Ryan’s ambition is second to none. He has earned his Bachelor of Science degrees in Finance and Marketing from Florida State University and is currently finishing up his MBA this summer. While balancing school, work, and extracurriculars he is constantly challenging himself.

Ryan serves as the President of the Florida State University Collegiate Veterans Association. Ryan dedicates his time and efforts to ensuring that transitioning veterans are receiving the highest standard of benefits and resources. His efforts contribute to the ultimate goal of the Student Veterans Center at Florida State University to become the most veteran friendly campus in the nation. In 2019, the highly competitive SVA leadership institute selected Ryan among thousands of other applicants. He proudly represented Florida State at the Student Veterans of America Leadership Institute.

As his time comes to an end, Governor DeSantis has recently recognized Ryan for his outstanding achievements. He was awarded the 2021 Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services veteran of the month award. This prestigious award was presented by the Commissioner, Attorney General, and Chief Financial Officer of Florida. The trailblazer carried multiple different roles in his 4 short years here at Florida State. Night life, Greek life, and helping veterans along the way. Balancing school and collateral duties, increasing the workload each year, his legacy at Florida State is truly among rarefied air. It’s safe to say that Ryan has indeed “left this place better than he found it”.