What is your name and current title with the University of Montevallo?
Traci Crenshaw, Director of the Office of Veteran & Military Affairs (VMA)
Where are you from and what city do you currently reside in?
I am from Omaha, Nebraska and currently reside in Pelham.
If you hold any degrees, what are they in and from what schools?
I have a bachelor’s and master’s degree in communication management from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and a master’s degree in English from National University in California.
How long have you worked here?
This is my sixth year at UM.
Did you hold any previous positions here? If so, what are they?
I taught communications courses as an adjunct professor at UM from 2009 to 2011.
What brought you to Montevallo?
UM was creating a veteran office and I felt like it was time for me to step out of the classroom and start a new adventure. I heard wonderful things about UM as a school and place of employment, and I had never created a university department before and was looking for a challenge. I consider working with veterans a way of giving back and cannot think of a more deserving group of people to help.
What’s the best thing about working for Montevallo?
The people I get to work with are the best! There are so many colleagues on campus that have been pivotal in VMA’s success. Specifically, under Dr. Tammi Dahle’s leadership, the veteran center on campus has flourished.
Do you have any interesting stories about one of your favorite experiences here?
My favorite experiences include Homecoming week, the Staff Appreciation Days on King Quad and walking the bricks in the fall.
What’s your proudest accomplishment since being at UM?
Creating the Office of Veteran & Military Affairs has been a huge undertaking, and I would not have changed a thing about it. As a United States Navy veteran, I know I can do difficult things. Being charged with creating this office also proved I can be patient, creative and that I can ask for help.
Why do you belong at Montevallo?
I believe everyone belongs at Montevallo! There is room for all of us and once you find your group on campus, you realize you are home.
Anything else you want to say?
My husband is a colonel and the state aviation officer for the Alabama National Guard. Our son attends Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, where he is getting his Ph.D. in Public Health Sciences.