Staff Spotlight: Meet Education Program Specialist Xavier Pelaez

Get to know the men and women at the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services who serve those who sacrificed for our freedoms.

The ADVS Staff Spotlight will be published every second and fourth Friday of the month on the ADVS social media pages and website with tidbits and fun facts about our employees.

The Staff Spotlight will highlight staff from all of our departments within ADVS including our Executive staff, Veterans Services Division, Arizona Veterans’ Memorial Cemeteries, Arizona State Veteran Homes and more!

This week’s Staff Spotlight features our Education Program Specialist Xavier Pelaez!

Name: Xavier Pelaez

Role at ADVS: Education Program Specialist with the State Approving Agency

When did you start at ADVS: April 24, 2023

Did you serve in the military: Yes, I served for 12 years in the Navy as a Lt. Intelligence Officer

Did anyone in your family serve: No

What do you do at ADVS: I work in the State Approving Agency, and we ensure all colleges, schools and training programs follow VA and state guidelines.

Why did you decide to join ADVS: I have always admired the mission of ADVS.

Why is your job important to helping Arizona Veterans: We ensure that veterans, their spouses, and dependents educational and training benefits are properly administered.

What do you enjoy about working at ADVS: I love the overall mission of assisting veterans and their families.

Outside of ADVS, what do you enjoy doing: I enjoy hiking, planting and traveling across the Southwest. I also enjoy assisting veteran non-profits.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be: The power to heal

Thank you for the work you do for our Arizona Veterans!