Patrick W. Welch, Ph.D.

Patrick W Welch, Ph.D., Sgt. USMC (ret) started his military service as an infantry squad leader with the 3rd Division in Vietnam in 1965. Welch was awarded the Purple Heart after being badly injured in combat. As a result of his injuries, Patrick spent the next two years in rehabilitation and had to learn how to walk again. Most recently, Daemen College named Patrick the Director of the Center for Veterans and Veteran Family Services Office.

The Center for Veterans serves as a comprehensive program to provide aid assistance to veterans seeking a degree from Daemen College. Additionally, he will be responsible for recruitment and retention of Veterans and will assist in the development and implementation of college-wide military recruitment and marketing plans. Since 2008, Welch has been a strong advocate for over 100,000 veterans in Erie County as the Director of Veterans Services. During his tenure, Veterans Service and Daemen College signed an agreement allowing all veterans, especially returning active-duty veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan, to obtain assistance in receiving an education from Daemen. Welch also hosts a local radio show on WECK 1230 to promote opportunities for veterans.

Among Patrick’s distinguished awards are: Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct, National Defense, Vietnam Campaign, Vietnam Service Medals, New York State Conspicuous Service Cross. Patrick and his wife, Carol, have been married for 42 years. They have four daughters, three sons-in-law and four grandchildren.