It is an honor to nominate Joanna Santorum for the Veteran of the Year® Award. Joanna dedicated 20 years of service to the United States Coast Guard as a Human Resources Practitioner, and since February 2022, she has continued her mission of service as a Veteran Career Service Advisor at Intellectual Point.
Joanna has been a transformative force in the lives of thousands of veterans, guiding them through the complexities of the job market and helping them secure meaningful employment. Her compassion and expertise empower veterans to embrace their unique value, translating military experience into marketable skills for civilian careers. The results speak for themselves — veterans she has mentored have achieved an impressive 68% success rate in securing jobs, a testament to the profound impact she makes every day. Joanna’s passion for education and advocacy extends beyond the classroom; she actively partners with Transition Readiness teams on military bases, promoting free programs and resources to support service members as they navigate life after the military.
Her impact doesn’t stop there. As the Membership Director for her local SHRM chapter, Joanna’s leadership drove an outstanding 16.87% membership growth in 2024, creating a more vibrant and supportive community for HR professionals. Her 2025 growth and retention efforts have already exceeded expectations, further strengthening this network and opening doors for HR practitioners and business leaders alike.
Joanna’s unwavering dedication has not gone unnoticed. She was honored as a nominee for the 2024 Athena Award, recognizing her ability to inspire others toward excellence both professionally and personally. She embodies the spirit of service, consistently going above and beyond to create pathways for success, whether for veterans, HR professionals, or her local community. Joanna’s passion, leadership, and relentless pursuit of positive change make her a truly deserving candidate for this prestigious award.
Transitioning from the military to civilian life was one of the most challenging yet defining experiences of my journey. After serving 20 years as an HR practitioner in the U.S. Coast Guard, I faced firsthand the uncertainty that comes with redefining one’s identity and career path. That experience lit a fire in me to help others navigate that same road with confidence and clarity. For the past three years, I’ve served as a Career Services Advisor, supporting a growing community of veteran and student learners each month as they transition from the classroom to the workforce. I empower them with tools, strategies, and encouragement to succeed in their next chapter. Beyond my professional role, I actively volunteer in organizations that support military families, career readiness, and community empowerment. Every resume reviewed, every coaching session, and every small win shared reminds me why I serve in this new capacity. It’s not just my job—it’s my mission.
I served 20 years as an HR practitioner in the U.S. Coast Guard, where I cultivated a strong dedication to serving others and building mission-focused teams. For the past three years as a Career Services Advisor, I have had the privilege of supporting a growing community of veterans and students each month as they transition from the classroom to the workforce. I provide personalized guidance in career planning, resume development, and job placement, empowering individuals to navigate their career journeys with confidence. Beyond my professional role, I actively volunteer with several organizations committed to veteran empowerment and workforce development. My passion lies in helping others uncover their unique strengths, gain clarity, and step confidently into their next chapter with purpose and resilience. Every success story fuels my commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those I serve.
