TUSCALOOSA, AL — A Shelton State Community College administrator who has spent more than two decades helping military veterans navigate higher education has been selected as the 2026 State of Alabama's Veteran of the Year.
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Shelton State's Director of Financial Aid Eric Prewitt will now compete for the prestigious distinction of being named the national Veteran of the Year by Military Friendly.
Military Friendly is a nationally recognized assessment and designation program that identifies employers and educational institutions demonstrating strong outcomes and support for veterans, military service members, and their families.
Prewitt, a U.S. Navy veteran, is among the nominees in the Higher Education category of the 2026 Veteran of the Year and was recognized for his longstanding commitment to assisting veterans and their families in accessing educational benefits and support services.
According to his nomination profile, Prewitt began working in higher education in 2005 following a distinguished military career and quickly found his calling helping veterans achieve their educational and career goals.
As Veterans Resource Manager at Shelton State, he worked to connect veteran students and their dependents with resources while helping them navigate the transition from military service to college life.
Prewitt's military service earned him numerous honors, including the Sea Service Award, two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and a Sailor of the Year nomination.
His nomination states that the leadership skills and commitment to service he developed in the Navy have continued throughout his civilian career, where he has focused on supporting veterans and strengthening student success initiatives.
Prewitt currenrly serves as Shelton State's director of financial aid while continuing to oversee the college's Veterans Affairs Office. In that role, he manages financial aid operations while remaining actively involved in veteran support services.
Prewitt is also a member of the Alabama Veterans Affairs Association and the Western Association of Veterans Education Specialists.
His nomination notes that Prewitt has been recognized as an Outstanding Support Staff Member at Shelton State and is known for going beyond the requirements of his position to assist students, support colleagues and strengthen the college community.
National winners of the award are selected through public voting and are expected to be announced later this year.
Click here to cast your ballot before July 4.
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