Texas Tech explores the creation of a Uniformed Services Center aimed at advancing educational pathways for military and first responders.

As an Air Force veteran, retiring as a colonel after more than 25 years of service, Patrick Albritton understands firsthand the meaning of serving in uniform. He also knows that sometimes there are challenges when those who serve or have served look to further their education or advance in civilian careers. He is poised to help resolve, or at least smooth out, those trials for military veterans and first responders. 

Albritton, the associate vice president for facilities and operations at Reese National Security Complex, also serves as the military and veteran liaison for Texas Tech Online. In this capacity he was charged with creating a vision for a Uniformed Services Center, dedicated to advancing educational pathways for veterans, military, first responders and their families.

The purpose of the symposium is to galvanize the uniformed services community by bringing together key stakeholders to develop the vision, establish goals and create an actionable plan for the center’s launch. 

Texas Tech invites veterans, first responders, military families and advocates to join this pivotal conversation, shaping the future of education for those who serve.

Event: Uniformed Services Symposium

Date: Friday, Nov. 21, 2025

Time: 2-5 p.m.

Location: United Supermarkets Arena, Texas Tech University

The Uniformed Services Center, once established, will position the university as a national leader in education for service members and public safety professionals by expanding access to flexible, high-quality online degrees and credentials; supporting transitions from service to civilian leadership; driving research and innovation rooted in real-world experience; and offering meaningful resources for military families, ROTC cadets and first responders.

To Serve Those in Service 

Given his background, Albritton is exceptionally qualified to head the kickoff event for imagining Texas Tech’s Uniformed Services Center. His passion for service members of all kinds is steeped in family connections. 

“My grandfather was a World War II Marine who was in Saipan, Tinian, Guadalcanal, Tarawa,” Albritton explained. “After he got out, he worked for the state of Texas, so public service and the military have been part of me growing up and with my extended family.”

His father is a Navy veteran and was a 30-year firefighter in Austin. Both his sister and her husband are Dallas police officers. Albritton’s other brother-in-law was also in the Air Force. 

According to Brian Still, vice provost for Texas Tech Online and co-chair of the committee, the initiative aligns with Texas Tech’s commitment to student success and community engagement. Top-tier research universities, including many Association of American Universities (AAU) members, are increasingly adopting a “Veteran Ready” model. 

“We think Texas Tech’s model will go one step further by enhancing the university’s role as a leader in supporting uniformed service-affiliated learners, which includes first responders and ROTC cadets,” Still said. “Our goal is to create sustainable pathways for lifelong learning and leadership. Uniformed service members bring unique skills and experiences that are valuable in research and innovation. AAU universities engage veterans in STEM fields, public service and leadership development, contributing to national priorities in workforce development and innovation.” 

In terms of growing Texas Tech’s enrollment, uniformed service members have access to financial resources availing themselves to continued education – especially in the online community.

“Texas Tech has long prided itself on being a veteran-friendly institution,” said Provost and Senior Vice President Ron Hendrick. “This effort helps us move beyond intent to action—embedding lasting support for those who have sacrificed so much for their communities and our country.”

Albritton’s steering committee for the symposium includes Jesus “Eloy” Guerra, Army veteran and senior director, IT System Administration; Matt Gregory, dean of students and vice provost for Student Life; Steve Maxner, Army veteran and director of the Vietnam Center and Sam Johnson Vietnam Archive; Meredith Imes, managing director for Emergency Management; Heather Anderson, Army spouse and managing director for Texas Tech DFW and Chief Kyle Bonath,Texas Tech Police Department and retired FBI agent.

Learn more about the public afternoon session, including the keynote speaker and panelists.