On Veterans Day, Frank Covington makes a point of recognizing those who have sacrificed themselves and their families for the freedom of our nation.
“I reach out to people I served with and thank them for their service,” says the director of facility operations in the College of Charleston’s Facilities Management, who is also a 21-year U.S. Army Field Artillery veteran. “I also send a note to colleagues on campus who served in the military. I want them to understand that people do remember their sacrifice and service.”
Covington knew he was destined for the Army since high school. He had a goal to achieve; to lead and command troops. The diverse experiences he gained and the opportunity to work with people from different backgrounds prepared him for developing young soldiers. For two years of Covington’s military career, he commanded 120 soldiers, developing strong leadership skills and the ability to make hard decisions during difficult times.
RELATED: Meet two of CofC’s more than 200 student-veterans.
“I achieved my ultimate goal, and it was the most gratifying experience of my career,” he says. “All of my training led me to this position. I had to understand the different roles of my troops to be able to command them and mold them into successful soldiers.”
After 21 years and 12 moves, Covington left the military.
“Marriage is a partnership,” he explains, “and, with two young children, my wife was done with moving.”
The Lancaster, South Carolina–native eventually landed at the College of Charleston, where he applies the leadership and organizational skills he learned in the U.S. Army, particularly when helping coach supervisors. He also uses the training he received in the military to understand his role and see the bigger picture — something that will come in very handy as we begin implementing the College’s strategic plan.
Today, as we thank our veterans for their service, we also thank the military for providing us with quality professionals who make our campus the wonderful place it is.
If you are a veteran employed at CofC and your name is not listed, please email either the Office of Human Resources or Faculty & Staff News to ensure you are included in the future.
