Since the start of the Global War on Terrorism, more than 7,000 American service members have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation. The Gold Star family designation honors these families, recognizing the immense loss they have endured while reflecting the courage and sacrifice of their loved ones.
Stephen Ross, a former U.S. Air Force Captain and graduate of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI), provides a unique perspective and a wealth of experience to his new role as a Gold Star Fellow. With a background in operations management and a career focused on serving military-affiliated students, Stephen has demonstrated unwavering commitment to those who serve. As a Gold Star Fellow, Stephen will help educate future generations on the enduring impact of the Global War on Terrorism and ensure the sacrifices of those who served are never forgotten.
Q: Tell us a little about yourself.
Currently, I serve as the Director of Military Student Services at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), where my team and I provide comprehensive support for military-affiliated students, including monitoring and managing all military educational benefits. Prior to VCU, I was at VMI for 27 years, where I was a soccer coach, swimming coach, economics instructor, and mentor.
Outside of my career, I am a proud father of two children. My son, Drew, was a West Point graduate and a strong patriot who was tragically killed in action by an IED on November 27, 2018, while serving with Special Forces Team 3126 near Ghazni, Afghanistan. My daughter, Sarah, honors his legacy through the Drew Ross Memorial Foundation, which supports initiatives such as the Servicemember Transitional Advanced Rehabilitation (STAR) to assist veterans.
Over a year ago, I was introduced to the STAR program at McGuire VA Hospital, which provides holistic support to Special Forces members to improve their lives after service. In partnership with STAR, I launched a woodworking therapy program where participants build wooden American flags. This initiative was inspired by a shared love of woodworking with Drew and honors his memory through service to others.
Q: What are some key memories from your time at VMI that shaped your path in the military?
As a cadet, I was blessed with many great instructors, coaches, and mentors. I built strong bonds with my roommates and teammates, often sharing struggles and successes! It is those great people that I recall the most.
Q: What do you find most rewarding about working with military-affiliated students and families?
The most rewarding part of assisting military-affiliated families is knowing we are supporting those who were willing to sacrifice and serve something greater than themselves. There is a shared bond and a deep mutual understanding of what our service represents.
Q: Looking back, what do you consider your greatest achievement—whether in your current role or during your military service?
Simply being a father, coach, mentor, and teacher. The greatest achievement has been the ability to inspire and motivate others to accomplish great things and guide them toward positive directions that help them lead fuller lives.
Q: What does it mean for you to be named a Gold Star Fellow?
The title of Gold Star is something no parent ever wants. Losing a son or daughter in military service is crushing, and the pain never truly goes away. However, being named a Gold Star Fellow brought me tears of joy. It was completely unexpected and incredibly meaningful to me.
The connection I’ve felt with Rod since we first met—knowing he knew my son through his service in the Special Forces community—has been powerful. And the opportunity to work with the GWOTMF team, a group of truly remarkable people, and to contribute to something so meaningful to so many is a special gift that I cherish deeply.
Q: Why is the Global War on Terrorism Memorial important to you?
The men and women who have served need and deserve something impactful to honor that service. Throughout history, monuments have been raised to recognize those who have served their nation. This Memorial is important to me because of my son’s sacrifice. Drew loved his country and demonstrated that love through his service. All those who have been directly impacted by the Global War on Terrorism need a place to go to say thank you, to mourn, and to mend.
