The Virginia Advisory Council on Military Education named the acting director for the Navy College Office at Naval Station Norfolk the Military Educator of the Year Award during its annual symposium March 15-17 in Virginia Beach.

Ulysses Byrd, an eight-year Navy College employee, and retired Navy master chief signalman, received the award from Ellen Coleman, treasurer of ACME.

"Each year, ACME recognizes members of the voluntary education community for outstanding service," said Coleman. "Ulysses was nominated and selected for all the work he has done with the Navy Voluntary Education staff and for his service as acting director of the Navy College office. Without support staff like Mr. Byrd, military education would not be possible."

Byrd said he appreciated ACME's recognition, and said being recognized by his peers is an amazing feeling.

"Education has always been a very positive thing for me, even as a young Sailor during my first enlistment," said Byrd. "As a kid from North Carolina coming in with a high school diploma, but retiring with a master's degree, I've found education is a path that can open many doors. It's gratifying to see the light come on and Sailors understand what education can do for them."

Jacqueline Rhodes, regional director of the Navy Voluntary Education Program Region East and Europe, said Byrd's efforts supported nearly 65,000 Sailors in the Hampton Roads area.

"Ulysses is considered by his peers to be a counselor's counselor - he provides countless training hours and mentorship to his counterparts while sharing best practices," said Rhodes. "He has single-handedly taken care of all of the Navy ships and shore commands around the peninsula."

Michael Camden, president of the Virginia ACME, said this year's Military Educator of the Year Award marked a milestone for the organization.

"It was especially significant that Mr. Byrd was recognized for his contributions during the 10th anniversary of Virginia-ACME," said Camden. "This year's theme was 'Celebrating a Decade of Service and Support to Military Education' in Virginia."

According to VA-ACME's website, it was established to promote, support and deliver meaningful education within all branches of the armed services by encouraging educational institutions to be innovative and flexible in meeting educational needs. The annual symposium provides several professional development opportunities, including discussions about educational programs, initiatives and support for service members, veterans and spouses and military transition support.

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