Meet Emily DaBruzzi, Director of Military & Veteran Engagement
Can you tell us about your role here at Clemson?
I am lucky enough to lead an incredible team that works together to ensure the success, well-being, and sense of belonging of military-connected students by serving as both advocates for and experts on military-connected student needs. We oversee tailored support services, guide students through academic and VA-related processes, and equip them for academic, career, and personal success.
One of my favorite things about my role is that it is completely student facing. I get the privilege of working with students daily to empower them through personalized support, promote academic and career readiness, share knowledge about impactful programs and resources, and foster meaningful connections all alongside THE BEST team while collaborating with campus partners to enhance the overall student experience.
Ultimately, it’s my hope that my position ensures Clemson University delivers a high-impact, military-inclusive environment by aligning programs, communications, and resources to help military-connected students thrive from enrollment through graduation and beyond.
What is something fun we might not know about you?
My family has a brand new swimming pool at our house, and we can’t wait to enjoy it daily when the South Carolina summer is fully upon us!
What brought you to Clemson?
Our family relocated to the Clemson area from Jacksonville Beach, Florida, when I was offered my current role. We love the Upstate and Clemson University. Everything feels like home here and everyone feels like family. My youngest son, Maxwell, is so “All In” that he was 5 years old before he realized the color orange wasn’t actually named “Clemson.”
Is there anything you would like for people to know about your department?
There are actually two incredible offices on campus that support military-connected students 100% of the time- Military & Veteran Engagement, which falls under Student Affairs, and the VA Educational Benefits Office, which falls under the Registrar’s Office. While technically we belong to two separate divisions entirely, we work together as a team daily to ensure our students are cared for and successful. If you call either of us, we’ll be sure to assist you or connect you to the other office if they are the best point of contact for your question or need.
The Clemson Champion is Staff Senate’s spotlight for exceptional staff and teams at Clemson. Stay tuned and meet more Clemson Champions in future posts.
