Dr. Mike Colson (mikecolson.com) is a former Navy Commander, combat veteran and human service specialist who assists returning Iraq and Afghanistan veterans and contractors. He is a National Service Fellow, a recipient of the Meritorious Service Medal, was awarded the Iraq (and) Afghanistan War on Terrorism Medal, and is a significantly disabled American veteran. Dr. Colson's academic training includes a BSc. in Education from Eastern Michigan University, a Masters of Arts in Educational Psychology and Counseling from Western Seminary, and a Ph.D. in Clinical Sociology and Human Services from Walden University. He has worked for over 28 years in a variety of challenging military and humanitarian assignments holding positions as a public school teacher and principal, adjunct college professor and Foreign Service Officer. He served for 14 years in war torn Southern Africa assisting with drought relief and refugee programs, started with his wife an orphan support enterprise which he advocates for today, and continues to travel extensively worldwide. His speaking and writing allow him to engage with the community, share his life experiences, and bring to the foreground all that is good in the world.

Past accomplishments include three books: "The Paradox of Underachievement" from EMI that explores youth and military dissonance in a benefit-laden society - "In Irons" from Bookmasters that is a humorous diatribe on the art of living well - and - "We Are Mysterious". He has developed mixed media material targeting youth isues, suicide, depression, stress, education, decision making, and post-combat readjustment available at vettrauma.org.

Dr. Colson is regularly invited to speak at at colleges and universities, military bases, and community events and celebrations. He most recently returned from Iraq and the Middle East. He is an advocate for youth, orphans, refugees, military and contract personel serving their country, and those suffering fro HIV/AIDS worldwide. He lives on Camano Island in Washington State's Puget Sound. He can be reached at mike@mikecolson.com.