UIW Veteran Graduate Gilbert Lauriano

The University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) has made continuous efforts to support and provide new opportunities for its military-connected and veteran students. In fact, as of this month UIW was ranked the #1 university in the nation by Military Times in its 2025 "Best for Vets: Colleges" list, making this the third consecutive year that it's received this distinguished title. With more and more service members joining the Nest, UIW and its Military and Veteran Center (MVC) strive to uplift students as they pursue their academic and professional goals.

Gilbert Laurino, a U.S. Army veteran who has served three deployments, is amongst the Fall 2025 graduates that will be crossing the Commencement stage on Saturday, Dec. 13. This isn't the first time Laurino will be walking the UIW Commencement stage, though, as he previously received his Bachelor of Business Administration from UIW in 2024.

Since beginning his academic journey, the University has offered him support on both academic and personal fronts. From the Military and Veteran Center to his instructors in the classrooms, he feels that all have been considerate of the challenges veterans and parents face in higher education. This strong sense of belonging has helped Laurino feel at home, which ultimately influenced his decision to continue his education at UIW, now completing his Masters of Business Administration (MBA).

"My MBA was something I truly wanted to pursue because it strengthens not only business knowledge, but real-life decision-making skills," noted Lauriano. "Studying economics has also helped me understand why choices are made at the community and county level on our behalf. It gave me a deeper appreciation for how policy, leadership and economics all work together in the real world."

Laurino explained that studying business is more than just understanding how to run one, but rather how to run one successfully. Through his studies, he's learned how to be an effective leader and gained a better understanding of complex theories and systems that can positively impact a business. Seeing all the intricate moving parts of his chosen field has been an enjoyable and eye-opening experience for him.

Aside from his genuine interest in his field of study, Laurino's drive has been deeply influenced by his family. As a first-generation American and the first on his maternal side of the family to serve his country and earn a degree, Laurino wanted to make his mother proud. Additionally, as a father, his daughters have remained one of his biggest sources of motivation. Having his girls witness him take his academic journey day-by-day means a lot to him. He knows that by witnessing his journey they will better understand the value of education. He hopes that when they look at him, they see the importance of working hard and have the courage to believe in themselves.

Laurino noted that the guidance and support of the Military and Veteran Center has been immensely helpful to him. From navigating benefits to staying on top of enrollment, the MVC has provided an accepting place for him to feel understood and has offered multiple resources. Working closely with the center helped Laurino recognize his own love for helping fellow veterans, inspiring him to work at the Bexar County Military and Veterans Center.

"Being a veteran myself, I know how tough transitions can be," share Lauriano. "I wanted to help others avoid the confusion and challenges I experienced. In a way, it felt like a calling to continue serving, just in a different uniform."

"Gilbert truly embodies the spirit of a UIW student," said Veterans Services Specialist Karissa Ramos Vigil. "Every day, he shows unwavering dedication, deep compassion and a genuine commitment to serving both our University and the veteran community. This achievement is a reflection of his hard work and character. Our entire office (the MVC) is incredibly proud of him, and we cannot wait to see the impact he will continue to make in the years ahead."

With his graduation on the horizon, Lauriano is proud to officially earn his MBA and is looking forward to his next steps beyond UIW. He intends to continue serving the veteran community and growing as a leader within Bexar County, wanting to build programs, strengthen partnerships and support service members and their families. Wherever life may take him, he is confident that his passion for serving his veteran community will remain present in all that he does.

Laurino leaves this message to prospective graduates:

"Keep going, even when it feels impossible. As a father, a veteran and a working student, there were times when the balance got tough, but the reward is worth it. Lean on your community, trust the process and never forget who you're doing it for. If I can do it, while raising kids and serving my community, others can too."

Congratulations, Gilbert Lauriano!