Lone Star College System appoints David Yebra as Chief Veterans Officer

HOUSTON, TX -- Lone Star College System is proud to announce the appointment of retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel David J. Yebra as its inaugural chief Veterans Officer, effective Sept. 1.

A nationally respected leader in veteran support, leadership development and organizational strategy, Yebra brings more than 35 years of experience across military, higher education and public service.

“Lone Star College System has a longstanding commitment to honoring and supporting those who have served in our nation’s military,” said Mario K. Castillo, J.D., LSCS chancellor. “Lieutenant Colonel Yebra’s unique combination of military leadership, higher education innovation and deep dedication to service makes him the ideal person to lead this next chapter for our veteran and military-connected students.”

In his newly created role, Yebra will lead system-wide efforts to support veteran and military-affiliated students at Lone Star College System. He will work with internal, community, military, and industry partners to expand educational access, enhance veteran success, and strengthen engagement across campuses. His role will report to Kristy Vienne, Ed.D., LSCS vice chancellor, Finance and Administration.

“I’m honored to join Lone Star College System and continue my life’s work supporting those who have served our country,” said Yebra. “We have an extraordinary opportunity to not only educate veterans, but also to empower them as leaders in our communities and workforce.”

As the Chief Veterans Officer, Yebra will work to position LSCS as a national model for veteran success, aligning student services, academic advising, workforce development and community partnerships in support of the college’s strategic priorities.

“I’m honored to serve those who have worn the uniform by helping them succeed in the next chapter of their lives,” said Yebra. “Lone Star College System has a bold vision for veteran support, and I’m proud to be part of it.”

Prior to joining Lone Star College System, Yebra served as Division Director of the Training and Leader Development Division for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, where he oversaw training initiatives for more than 32,000 employees. His career also includes distinguished service at Sam Houston State University, where he served as the emergency management coordinator and professor of military science, designing nationally recognized leadership development programs.

A West Point graduate with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering management, along with a master’s degree in counseling and Leader Development from Long Island University, Yebra received four Bronze Star medals over his three years of combat in Iraq. He graduated from the Army's Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, KS. He was also honored as the U.S. Army Cadet Command’s Professor of Military Science of the Year in 2011.