JACKSON and JOSEPHINE counties, Oregon (Oct. 10, 2025) — Christopher Stucke, a Navy veteran pursuing an associate degree at Rogue Community College (RCC), has been selected to attend the Student Veterans of America (SVA) Leadership Institute taking place Oct. 15-19, 2025, in Washington, D.C. This honor recognizes Stucke’s commitment to leadership and service as he advances his education.
Stucke, 31, of Grants Pass, served 10 years in the Navy, leaving as a petty officer second class (E-5). In his job as a naval aircrewman, he worked as a helicopter crew chief and aviation rescue swimmer. His crew participated in the aerial firefighting program in Southern California.
Stucke began classes at RCC last fall, pursuing an Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer (AAOT) degree with plans to transfer to the University of Oregon to study business. He is president of RCC’s Student Veterans Organization (SVO), the RCC chapter of Student Veterans of America.
Stucke’s acceptance notification from the SVA Leadership Institute said: “This year’s process was highly competitive, and you stood out as an ideal candidate for this prestigious experience. Your acceptance into this esteemed program is a testament to your leadership, dedication, and potential.”
As president of the SVO, Stucke supports fellow student veterans in achieving the best possible student experience. Stucke also plays a key role in coordinating SVO events that raise awareness about student veteran issues, provide education on GI benefits and connect veterans with resources.
“Being accepted into the SVA Leadership Institute is a tremendous opportunity to connect with fellow student veterans and gain the skills to make a greater impact,” Stucke said. “I’m grateful for the support from RCC and excited to bring back what I learn to strengthen our campus veteran community.”
The SVA Leadership Institute is designed to empower student veterans with essential leadership training, networking opportunities and advocacy skills to support their success in higher education and beyond. Participants engage in workshops, panel discussions and interactions with policymakers and industry leaders, fostering a national network of over 1,600 on-campus chapters and nearly 600,000 student veterans and their families.
Stucke’s selection highlights RCC’s robust support for student veterans through its Military/Veterans Resource Centers, which provide academic advising, career services and a welcoming environment for transitioning service members and their families. RCC serves about 230 students receiving veterans benefits each term.
“We are incredibly proud of Chris and the example he sets for our veteran students,” said RCC President Randy Weber. “Programs like the SVA Leadership Institute align perfectly with our mission to empower veterans to thrive academically and professionally.”
For more information about RCC’s veteran and military services, visit www.roguecc.edu/military.