User:Robertnear1987/sandbox

Submission declined on 24 December 2024 by WaddlesJP13 (talk).

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Declined by WaddlesJP13 1 second ago. Last edited by WaddlesJP13 1 second ago. Reviewer: Inform author.

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Robert R. Near, Ph.D.C., M.P.A. is a U.S. Army veteran, public servant, and executive leader specializing in veterans' affairs, public administration, and organizational leadership. He is a former Deputy Director of the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency, where he led transformative initiatives to improve the lives of veterans across the state.

Early Life and Education

Robert Near served as an Airborne Artilleryman in the United States Army, completing deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. His military service earned him the Combat Action Badge, Army Commendation Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.

Near pursued higher education while serving in the military, earning:

Associate Degree in General Studies from Central Texas College

Later he went on to complete his:

Bachelor of Science in Leadership in Business from Grand Valley State University Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) with a focus on Governmental Administration and a Certificate in Homeland Security from Pennsylvania State University

And he is currently working on his:

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Candidate in Interdisciplinary Health Sciences at Western Michigan University

Career

Deputy Director, Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (2019–2023) As the longest-serving Deputy Director of the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency, Near oversaw statewide programs, legislative advocacy, and strategic planning. His accomplishments include:

Expanding agency staff by 48%, enhancing service delivery for Michigan’s veteran population. Developing a statewide veteran registry that connected with over 50% of Michigan's veterans. Launching innovative programs for mental health, homelessness prevention, and underserved veteran populations, including women veterans. Creating and expanding statewide events such as the Veterans Leadership Summit and Michigan's first Veterans and Military Gala.

Veteran Systems Navigator, HealthWest (2017–2019) At HealthWest, Near developed veteran-focused mental health programs, securing funding and expanding services across the region. He worked directly with veterans to address barriers to care, focusing on mental health and substance abuse recovery.

Economic Development Coordinator, Center for NonProfit Housing (2016–2017) Near led economic development initiatives at the Center for NonProfit Housing, including programs to improve housing affordability and financial empowerment. He also formed partnerships with state agencies to expand the organization’s impact.

Military Service

Near served as a Tactical Data Systems Specialist and Combatives Instructor in the U.S. Army, where he managed multimillion-dollar equipment inventories and trained soldiers in combat techniques. His service included deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, where he earned recognition for leadership and valor.

Leadership Philosophy

Near's leadership philosophy emphasizes empathy, integrity, and collaboration. He advocates for innovative problem-solving, strategic partnerships, and data-driven decision-making to achieve measurable outcomes and lasting impact.

Awards and Recognition

Combat Action Badge Army Commendation Medal (2x) Army Achievement Medal (3x) Global War on Terrorism Service Medal Operation Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom Campaign Medals with Stars NATO Medal

Personal Life

Near is a devoted husband and father who enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and snowboarding. He is committed to community service and public leadership.