Syracuse Sun

Elizabeth "Beth" Kubala, a teaching professor and director of veteran and military affairs at the College of Law, has been honored with the New York State Bar Association's Judge Robert T. Russell Veterans Advocate Award. This accolade is given to an attorney who has significantly impacted or provided outstanding services to U.S. military members in New York State.

Domenick Napoletano, president of the New York State Bar Association, remarked on Kubala's efforts: "Elizabeth Kubala takes her students from the classroom to the community, breaking down barriers so veteran clients can access quality health care, food and other government benefits." He further highlighted how her work assists veterans from different generations, including those currently in college and those who served in Korea and Vietnam.

Kubala serves as executive director of the College of Law’s Betty and Michael D. Wohl Veterans Legal Clinic (VLC). Under her leadership, students have drafted amicus briefs for the U.S. Supreme Court and argued cases at the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals. Her determination has led to new initiatives and funding aimed at combating veteran homelessness and substance use.

Syracuse University and its College of Law have a long-standing commitment to supporting veterans, with over 100 years dedicated to military-connected students. The university is recognized as one of the best private schools for veterans and strives to be an ideal place for them by offering extensive resources, academic programs, and student organizations. Additionally, Syracuse hosts the D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families, a national nonprofit that has assisted more than 208,000 service members, veterans, and their families in transitioning to post-service life.