Veteran students swell the ranks of Olin’s EMBA program

Don Halpin, a 28-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force, is an Executive MBA career coach at WashU Olin. In this guest blog post, he talks about why Olin’s MBA programs have been such popular choices for veterans.

U.S. veteran enrollment at WashU Olin continues to boom both in our Executive MBA cohort and in our new Flex MBA offering.

Veterans comprise 31% of the newest EMBA class, with men and women from three branches of service – the Army, the Navy, and the Air Force. Meanwhile, our Flex MBA program (a new offering that replaces our previous Professional and Online MBA programs) has significant veteran representation – 9% of the total group, with representatives from the Army, the Navy, the Air Force, and the Marines.

This sustained and growing enthusiasm for Olin results from decades of building a supportive environment that understands the veteran student experience. I saw that support myself as a veteran EMBA student a decade ago, and I work hard to sustain it now as an EMBA career coach.

Why has Olin become such a magnet for U.S. veterans looking for a career pivot? Here’s what I hear when I talk to students:

• We’re small, but well-connected – Olin’s smaller cohorts ensure that students don’t get lost in the shuffle. You form tight bonds with your fellow students – both military and civilian – and their experiences enrich your education, just as your unique background adds to their understanding. These relationships transcend the classroom environment and continue throughout your professional career. You will make lifelong friends here.
• Programs that fit your purpose – At Olin, we provide multiple options for professional education, since we know that every student has different goals, strengths, and circumstances. Our EMBA program is a high-touch, high-caliber learning environment that allows for professional exploration and experimentation. The new Flex program, which combines opportunities for classroom and online instruction, allows you to fit your studies around your life. And our entrepreneurial and experiential learning opportunities are unparalleled.
• World-class faculty –  Olin’s faculty are nationally and internationally recognized experts in their field. You will learn from the best and, after graduation, be able to draw from their wisdom and experience as you navigate the challenges and problems that present themselves in the workplace.
• The OVA advantage – For decades, the Olin Veterans Association has helped enhance the Olin experience for veteran students. This on-campus group fosters relationships among student veterans, provides support to you and your family, and facilitates networking opportunities. As an OVA member, you are invited to attend regular events with fellow students, Olin alumni, and members of the business community. Once you have an Olin degree, the OVA network continues to work overtime as a source of connections and guidance.

“The Olin Veterans Association offers current students a unique advantage through its expansive network of alumni who hold leadership positions across private sector industries,” said OVA President Dan Sullivan, MBA 2025. “This network provides us with access to influential leaders and organizations committed to supporting veterans. In my own transition to the private sector, I've found success by leveraging relationships within the OVA community.”

The shared experience of military service, combined with the Olin value of data-driven decision-making, fosters trust and collaboration among our group members. As a result, both alumni and current students thrive within a strong, supportive, and prosperous community.  

Dan Sullivan

Through your selfless service to the United States, you’ve earned this opportunity to pursue your career goals at Olin. WashU proudly supports the Post 9-11 GI Bill® and is a full participant in the Yellow Ribbon Program. If the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs determines your eligibility for the Yellow Ribbon benefit, your WashU tuition could be fully covered. In addition, we provide veterans with scholarships, fellowships, and other assistance as necessary.

If you’d like to learn more about WashU Olin’s programs, join us on campus on January 24 for our Military Preview Day. Learn how your service can be a perfect fit with an Olin degree.

Photo: Members of the Olin Veteran’s Association and Dean Mike Mazzeo at this year’s Dining Out event, which brings together veteran alumni and students. Carol Green/WashU