Laurel Ridge Community College honors the stories of veterans—stories of resilience, reinvention and hope. One of those stories belongs to Jeff Sinclair, an Army veteran whose journey from uncertainty to academic achievement shows the power of starting small. Sinclair recently shared his story with Janet Michael on The Valley Today.
When Sinclair left the military, he faced a question many veterans share: What’s next? Unsure of his path, he enrolled at Laurel Ridge, first choosing cybersecurity. But as he navigated classes, he realized his strengths lay elsewhere. “Math made more sense—it was logical,” he said. That insight led him to switch majors and earn an associate of science degree with an engineering focus, building a foundation for his future.
Along the way, Sinclair discovered more than academics—he found mentorship. Chemistry Professor Sam Dillender sparked his passion for science, transforming complex concepts into clarity. “It changed everything,” Sinclair said. That inspiration carried him to Shenandoah University for a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and now to a doctor of pharmacy program at the Bernard J. Dunn School of Pharmacy.
Sinclair credits Laurel Ridge’s Veteran Services team, led by Sharon Painter and Jeanmarie Corrado, for making the transition easier. From navigating GI Bill benefits to easing first-day jitters, they provided critical support. “Sharon was phenomenal—one-stop shopping,” Sinclair said. “She handled everything from class schedules to GI Bill benefits.”
Flexibility also played a role. Sinclair’s time at Laurel Ridge spanned the pandemic, introducing him to online learning—a skill that later helped him thrive in advanced programs. “Laurel Ridge gave me that foundation,” he said. Today, students can start here and transfer anywhere, thanks to strong university partnerships.
When asked about his future, Sinclair smiled. “That’s future Jeff’s problem,” he said. For now, he’s focused on finishing his pharmacy degree and dreams of working near his children in Idaho. His advice to fellow veterans? “Do it…An associate degree gives you something to show for your work and the motivation to keep going.”
At Laurel Ridge, we celebrate these steps forward. Sinclair’s story reminds us that success rarely follows a straight line. It begins with a single step—and at Laurel Ridge, we’re here to walk it with you. Learn more about Military and Veteran Services support at laurelridge.edu/veterans/.