Bellevue University Military Veteran Services Center Manager Named Board President of Hero’s Encore
Bellevue University Military Veteran Services Center Manager Ashlea Rodriguez has been named President of the Board of Directors of Hero’s Encore, a Nebraska-based nonprofit that serves veterans, transitioning service members, and first responders. The leadership transition marks a new chapter for the organization as it expands its mission, strengthens governance, and grows its impact across Nebraska communities.
Key Facts
- Ashlea Rodriguez has been appointed Board President of Hero’s Encore.
- Rodriguez serves as Military Veteran Services Center Manager at Bellevue University.
- Hero’s Encore is a Nebraska-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
- The organization provides a nine-month performance and resiliency program for veterans, transitioning service members, and first responders.
- Participants use music, songwriting, and public performances to support personal growth and community connection.
- Hero’s Encore was launched in 2025 by veterans, military family members, and community leaders.
- The organization builds on more than a decade of experience supporting military-connected communities through creative expression programs.
Ashlea Rodriguez to Lead Hero’s Encore Board of Directors
Hero’s Encore has named Ashlea Rodriguez as its new Board of Directors President, marking a milestone in the nonprofit organization's continued growth and long-term development. Rodriguez has supported the organization's mission since its founding and has worked alongside fellow leaders dedicated to serving veterans, transitioning service members, and first responders.
As Board President, Rodriguez will help guide the organization's strategic direction, strengthen community partnerships, and support efforts to expand programming across Nebraska. Her appointment reflects Hero’s Encore's commitment to shared leadership and building a sustainable organization that serves future generations of military-connected individuals and first responders.
Many people spend years defining themselves by the uniform or the role they served in. When that chapter ends, the challenge is not just figuring out what comes next, but rediscovering who you are beyond that identity. Hero’s Encore creates space for that journey. Through connection, creativity, and shared experiences, we help people recognize that their service is part of their story, not the end of it.
Supporting Purpose Through Creative Expression
Hero’s Encore provides a nine-month performance and resiliency program that helps participants develop musical skills, build confidence, and share their personal stories through songwriting and public performances. The nonprofit uses creative expression and community engagement to support post-service transition and personal growth.
Founded in 2025 by Taylor Ullom, David J. Mike, James Hoy, and Jordan Ullom, Hero’s Encore was created by a team with extensive experience serving military-connected communities. The organization evolved from more than a decade of support through a national music program that graduated more than 200 Nebraska veterans. Today, Hero’s Encore continues that work while expanding services to include first responders and transitioning service members.
Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a non-profit university with more than 70,000 graduates worldwide. The University is a recognized national leader in preparing students for lifelong success with career-relevant knowledge and skills, while making college affordable. Routinely ranked among the nation’s top military and accessible institutions, the University serves residential students at its main campus in Bellevue, Nebraska, and everywhere online with more than 85 degree programs uniquely designed for working adults. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).