HARRISBURG, PA – Happy Veterans Day 2024! For all who answered the call to serve this great country of ours: we thank you!
Harrisburg University was founded to create opportunities for those who may otherwise struggle to find their path through higher education — including returning service men and women. Keep reading to meet a Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU) alum who used his experiences and acts of service to make a positive impact not just on HU but also on his country and his fellow service members.
Phil Manders came to Harrisburg University in 2015 and graduated in 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in Computer and Information Sciences with a concentration in Cybersecurity. After HU, Phil continued his academic and professional development by earning his Master of Business Administration degree at Southern New Hampshire University and his Executive Certificate in Business Administration, Management, and Operations from Liberty University; he is currently pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration degree.
“Since my graduation from Harrisburg University, I’ve embarked on a fulfilling professional journey,” says Phil. “I’ve had the privilege of working with esteemed organizations like Geneia LLC – a healthcare analytics company focused on improving patient care – where I served as an Information Security Analyst. I’m currently a Senior IT Security Compliance Analyst for Foot Locker.”
In 2015, Manders – a veteran of the United States Marine Corp – became a founding member of the Harrisburg University Alumni Service Council, established to give back to veterans and active military alumni and students. Manders describes the responsibility as a “rewarding” experience.
“The council possesses a wide range of knowledge and history working with the VA,” says Phil. “We know what our brothers and sisters gave to miss the conventional college lifestyle; the council provides a first-hand experience that staff at the University may not be familiar with and helps with the adjustment veterans face while re-entering the community following service. We all know STEM graduates are sought-after in the job market. We want to help bring more veterans to HU to help improve their futures.
“After leaving the Marines, I initially thought I could step into a university environment and thrive right away, but I was wrong. I tried other schools and non-STEM majors, but I struggled to find the right fit. Transferring to Harrisburg University was a turning point. The smaller classes and one-on-one time with professors and instructors made a huge difference, helping me understand the material better and develop strategies to manage the workload.
“At Harrisburg University, the faculty goes above and beyond to support students, especially veterans. Even if they don’t have the answer themselves, there’s always someone at the university who can help. Now, through the Harrisburg University Alumni Service Council, I have the chance to give back and support other veterans on their journeys. Many veterans face uncertainty during their transition and feel they don’t have anyone in their corner to help them adjust. My experience at Harrisburg University has shown me that there is support, and I’m grateful to be part of a community that elevates and empowers veterans in their next steps.”
With his studies at HU now behind him, Phil remains a strong advocate for HU. “My time at Harrisburg University was a great experience. Coming out of the Marine Corps, I was not prepared for the rigorous work that came with school – but with the great student-to-professor ratio, I was able to utilize that to help the experience and get me to the point I am today. The people I’ve met through the University have all been exceptional, and some of them became great friends I still talk to today.”
Phil credits two individuals in particular for providing inspiration and support during his time at HU: Brian Grey and Chad Chu. “I had multiple classes with these gentlemen, and they helped me understand the material and had the time to sit down and help me develop skills to help me grow as an individual. I would not be where I am today without the guidance of these two, and I am truly appreciative of them.”
Phil currently resides in Camp Hill with his chocolate lab, Maya. In his free time, he plays hockey for a veterans-focused nonprofit called PUCHOG. He also volunteers as a baseball coach for 12-to-14-year-olds in the area.
Thank you for your service to Harrisburg University and to our country, Phil!
Anyone interested in contacting or supporting the Harrisburg University Alumni Service Council is encouraged to reach out to Phil Manders at PhilManders15@Gmail.com or GeneCarlo Veno, HU’s Alumni Relations Coordinator, at GVeno@HarrisburgU.edu.
ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY
Harrisburg University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and is a private, nonprofit university offering bachelor’s and graduate degree programs in the fields of science, technology, and mathematics. For additional information about the University’s affordable, demand-driven undergraduate and graduate programs, please call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu. Stay updated by following Harrisburg University on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
