Get Involved (VRC)

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Get the Most Out of Your VRC

The Cypress College Veterans Resource Center is more than just a physical space; it’s a place for veterans and military-affiliated students to connect and build community.

See how you can get involved below.

First Year Transition Program

Program Advisor: Nick Gutierrez
E: ngutierrez@cypresscollege.edu

The Cypress College VRC’s First Year Transition Program assists incoming students during their first year of study. Using an individualized case management approach, the program provides students with support to ensure their personal and academic goals are met as they begin to navigate their college journey.

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Peer Mentorship Program

Program Advisor: Sandy Golden
E: student.sgolden@cypresscollege.edu

Program Student Leads:
Sarai Davalos
E: sdavalos@cypresscollege.edu
Moses Perez

The Cypress College VRC Peer Mentorship Program assists military-affiliated students with achieving a seamless transition and successful journey throughout their time at Cypress College.

Attained through empowerment from mentorship connections, guidance, resources and community, success from the program is reflected in healthy academic standings, increased retention rates, and enhanced well-being as our student population navigates their first-year transitioning into higher education.

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Cypress College Veteran’s Organization (CCVO)

Organization Advisor: Nick Gutierrez
E: ngutierrez@cypresscollege.edu

The Cypress College Veteran’s Organization (CCVO) provides a social group to help veterans adjust to, and become successful in, civilian and college life. The group promotes college spirit and works to establish and maintain fellowship among veterans and students on the Cypress College campus.

2025-26 Organization Leadership

Christopher Marr, CCVO President
US Navy (23 years)
Major: Business Administration-Human Resources

As this year’s CCVO President I bring dedication and leadership to my role within the Student Veterans Club here at Cypress. I am a proud father of four daughters and a retired Navy veteran who is passionate about supporting my fellow veterans in achieving their academic and personal goals. Whether through mentorship, resource guidance, or simply lending an ear, I am committed to fostering a supportive community where veterans can thrive. My mission is to ensure every veteran feels supported and connected as they navigate their college journey.

Jaime Silva, CCVO Vice President
US Army Veteran (27.5 years)
Major: UAV Drone Aviation Pilot, Commercial Pilot, & Aviation Management

As your CCVO Vice President, I’ll use my military training and civilian life experience to guide fellow Veterans in the right direction because I like to help our community in any way that I can. Beyond my role with CCVO, I am a husband, father, and a proud Veteran, with a very energetic and easy-going nature who enjoys bike riding, sailing, flying my drone, and contributing to the larger OC Veteran community through the Veterans Chamber of Commerce in Orange County, Veterans helping Veterans.

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Women’s Unit(y)

Organization Advisor: Esmeralda Martin
E: emartin@cypresscollege.edu

Cypress College Women’s Unit(y) is a collective committed to empowering military-affiliated women, including active duty, veterans, reservists, spouses, family members, and allies, by fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. Through mentorship, advocacy, educational resources, and shared experiences, we aim to honor the unique challenges and strengths that come with military life.

2025-26 Organization Leadership

Aneth Kirk, Women’s Unit(y) President
Navy Veteran Dependent – Spouse
Major: Human Services, AA: Liberal Arts

As the President of Women’s Unit(y) and a proud Navy Veteran dependent, I’m committed to uplifting and supporting our campus and Veteran communities. I’m a wife and a devoted dog mom to two pups, and I find joy in giving back, whether it’s through feeding the houseless, mentoring youth, or advocating for those whose voices often go unheard.

I believe in being present when a helping hand is needed and offering a listening ear whenever possible. Outside of campus, I’m an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary Los Alamitos Unit 716 and passionate about working alongside Veterans to help them transition to life after service. My goal is to connect them with meaningful resources and provide a safe, supportive space. In my downtime, I enjoy reading, spending sunny days at the beach, going to concerts, hiking with my husband and dogs, picking up new hobbies, and cooking meals to share with friends and family.