In honor of Veterans Day on Nov. 11
10 Questions With… Brian Seale, manager of facilities, operation and academic services with the College of Business and co-chair of the Beaver Employee Association for Veteran Success, commonly known as BEAVS. Seale served as a fleet Marine Force hospital corpsman in the United States Navy from 2006 to 2014, including a deployment to the Helmand Province in Afghanistan with the 1st Medical Battalion.
What originally brought you to Oregon State and how long have you been here?
I came to Oregon State for the opportunity to build a meaningful career in a community-focused environment. I’ve always gravitated toward roles that support people, solve problems and create systems that make things better — and OSU gave me a platform to do all of that while serving a bigger mission. I’ve been here since 2018 and have grown through several roles. Being part of the College of Business has been an incredible experience.
What originally drew you to military service?
Service was always something I felt called to. I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself, and I wanted to grow — mentally, physically and emotionally. The Navy gave me all of that. As a hospital corpsman, I had the chance to support and care for people in some of their most vulnerable moments, and that shaped how I approach everything I do now with calm, empathy and accountability.
What makes you passionate about higher education?
Higher education has the power to change someone’s trajectory, not just professionally, but personally. I’ve seen how access to education opens doors, builds confidence and creates lifelong community. I’m passionate about being behind the scenes, helping build the systems and spaces that allow students, faculty and staff to thrive.
How do you think the skills and experiences you had in the Navy apply to working at the university?
The Navy taught me how to adapt quickly, lead through uncertainty and support a mission bigger than myself. At a university — especially one as dynamic as OSU — those skills are critical. Whether I’m responding to a facilities issue, supporting academic operations or helping faculty solve challenges, I lean on the same mindset I had in the military: stay calm, stay clear and serve with purpose.
What advice would you give the younger version of yourself who was just starting college?
Don’t wait until you feel perfectly ready — just start. Be curious, ask questions and don’t be afraid to fail. The classroom is important, but so is everything that happens outside of it: relationships, resilience, problem-solving and learning how to manage yourself. Trust that it’s okay not to have it all figured out on day one.
How did you get involved with BEAVS and why is it important to you?
As a veteran, I know how isolating it can feel to transition into a civilian space, even one as welcoming as OSU. When I saw an opportunity to help form a network for veteran faculty and staff, I knew I had to be part of it. BEAVS is about connection, advocacy and visibility. It’s about saying: “You’re not alone, and your experience matters here.” It’s something I wish I’d had sooner.
Are there ways in which the university could better serve its student veterans?
Absolutely. Student veterans often carry responsibilities like jobs, families and prior service experiences that can make traditional college life challenging. OSU has made strong strides with the Holcomb Center for Military and Veteran Resources, but there’s always room to grow. More dedicated onboarding support, career coaching tailored to vets and visibility across campus can go a long way. Even small changes, like making veterans feel seen and heard, can make a big difference. I encourage all veteran students to stop by the Holcomb Center in Snell Hall, Suite 150, to take advantage of what that community has to offer.
What was your favorite course in college?
Probably a leadership or project management course. I’ve always been fascinated by what makes teams work well and how people lead under pressure. That intersection of structure and flexibility really speaks to me, probably because I’ve lived it in the military and now in higher ed operations.
Who inspires you most in your work or personally?
My family, without question. My wife and kids remind me every day why I do what I do. They keep me grounded, motivated, and honest. Professionally, I’m inspired by people who lead quietly but effectively — those who solve problems, lift others up and don’t need credit to know they’ve made a difference.
What is your favorite non-academic pursuit or passion?
I love building, whether it’s something hands-on like working on a home project, or building systems and workflows that help others. I also love spending time with my family, being outdoors and getting creative whenever I can. Problem-solving is my happy place, even when I’m off the clock.
