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Charles Gulas, PhD, dean of the Walker College of Health Professions at Maryville University, has received the Patriot Award, presented by Employer Support for Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a U.S. Dept. of Defense program.

“I am honored and humbled to receive this award,” Gulas said. “The true heroes are those that are serving our country and their families. It is our duty to do everything we can to assist them.”

An employee serving in the National Guard or Reserve, or the spouse of a Guard or Reserve member, may nominate individual supervisors and bosses for support provided directly to the nominating service member and his or her family. The Patriot Award reflects the efforts made to support citizen warriors through a wide range of measures.

Gulas was nominated by Victor Kizer, director of Maryville’s exercise science program and assistant professor. Kizer is a 1^st Lieutenant in the Army Reserve with nearly 17 years of service. He is also a combat veteran.

“Dr. Gulas received the Patriot’s Award for his unwavering support of the military service, of myself, and others within the Walker College of Health Professions, including family members of deployed soldiers,” Kizer said. “It is a challenge to find a supervisor and employer who has not grown weary of over a decade of war, which puts a burden on the employers of America’s citizen soldiers. Dr. Gulas has gone above and beyond in his support.”