Anthony Kavouras

Anthony Kavouras retired as a Master Sergeant in the United States Air Force, where he honorably served 34+ years. He spent much of that time with the 105th Security Forces Squadron, including a deployment to Afghanistan with the 755th Expeditionary Security Forces, “Reaper 7."

Mr. Kavouras has held several positions in Security Forces. He has been the Noncommissioned Officer in Charge (NCO) of Training for a Base Defense Group, consisting of over 300 Warriors. He was the first of only a few NCOs to be named a Liaison for two Security Force Groups that deploy together into hostile regions. He was the Team Leader for a 39-man security force deployed to Afghanistan and a Squad Leader for 16 defenders during that deployment. In addition, he was a Flight Sergeant for a Security Flight of 14 Base Defenders.

A founding member of the SUNY Dutchess Veterans Club, Mr. Kavouras was instrumental in establishing a Veterans Resource Center at SUNY Dutchess. He was a charter member of the HVVA - a not-for-profit that helps Hudson Valley Veterans and became a Vet2Vet peer mentor through the PFC Dwyer Program. He is a member of the Dutchess County Veteran Affairs Committee and co-chairs the Dutchess County Veteran Task Force. He is a Board Member of the Dutchess County Adult Mental Health Subcommittee. Mr. Kavouras sits on several boards and committees, including the Veterans Advisory Board and Town of Pleasant Valley Veterans Advisory Board.

Since January 2015, Mr. Kavouras has worked to help veterans who are homeless or soon to be homeless find permanent, sustainable housing. He was instrumental in assisting them with employment opportunities and file veteran and Social Security benefits, as well as transportation. He transitioned to become the Program Director for Mental Health America’s Veterans Services Programs, which include a Veteran Peer Mentoring Program (PFC Dwyer Vet2Vet), a Housing Program (H.E.R.O.), an Employment Program (VET-TAP), NY Project Hope and a new Equine Program.

Mr. Kavouras earned an Associate degree in Criminal Justice and Human Services, and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Services, with an emphasis on Veterans.

He is married to his beloved wife, Jacqueline; they have four adult children and four grandchildren.