A Commitment to Service: How Jamie Frazer’s journey of service and faith led her to a rewarding new career.
Jamie Frazer’s journey of service began in 1995 when she enlisted in the United States Marine Corps (USMC). Stationed at Parris Island, SC, for recruit training, she quickly learned the discipline and resilience that would shape her future. Her role as a Marine Musician, playing the clarinet in the First Marine Division Band at Camp Pendleton, CA, allowed her to experience both the rigor of military life and the honor of representing the Marine Corps in ceremonial and public engagements.
Reflecting on this time, Jamie shares, “This role was both unique and fulfilling, as it combined the discipline and readiness of a deployable unit with the honor of representing the Marine Corps in various ceremonial and public engagements.”
During her service, she performed in concerts, parades, and military ceremonies, experiences that left a lasting impact. “Each event was an opportunity to uphold the traditions and esprit de corps of the Marine Corps while connecting with communities and honoring service members,” Jamie recalls.
A New Mission: Teaching
After completing four years in the Marine Corps, Jamie initially pursued a career as an Administrative Assistant. However, her path changed dramatically when she became a mother, particularly after her child was diagnosed with autism. This pivotal moment reshaped her professional aspirations—she no longer wanted to sit behind a desk; she wanted to make a difference in the lives of children.
“Once I started my family and had a child with autism, my perspective shifted,” Jamie explains. “I realized I no longer wanted to work behind a desk—I wanted to make a difference by helping children learn and grow.”
Jamie’s military background instilled in her a profound sense of discipline, patience, and adaptability—traits that proved invaluable as she entered the field of education. “Helping children learn has become my passion, and I truly enjoy guiding them as they discover their strengths and potential,” she adds.
The Concordia Connection
As Jamie searched for the right teacher preparation program, she discovered Concordia University’s Accelerated Education program in Cross-Categorical Special Education. Concordia’s online and accelerated format provided the flexibility she needed to balance her education with her personal and professional responsibilities. Beyond that, what truly set Concordia apart was its commitment to Christian values.
“What drew me to Concordia’s online or accelerated program was the flexibility it offers, which works perfectly with my schedule,” Jamie notes. “I wanted a program that aligned with my values, and Concordia stood out because of its strong foundation in Christian principles.”
Military Values in the Classroom
Jamie’s time in the Marine Corps shaped her approach to teaching in profound ways. “The discipline, structure, and resilience I developed in the Marine Corps have given me a strong foundation for managing a classroom and creating an environment where students feel supported and motivated to succeed,” she explains.
She also credits her military training for teaching her patience and adaptability—qualities she now brings into her classroom. “My time in the military taught me the importance of patience, adaptability, and teamwork—qualities that are essential when working with students, especially those who face unique challenges,” she says.
Having navigated the challenges of raising a child with autism, Jamie also brings a deep sense of empathy and advocacy to her teaching. “My goal is to instill confidence and provide the tools students need to thrive, just as the military taught me to do with my own team,” she emphasizes.
Advice for Fellow Veterans
For veterans considering a career in education, Jamie offers a simple but powerful message: “Go for it—you already have a strong foundation of discipline, adaptability, and leadership that will serve you well in teaching and higher education.”
She encourages fellow veterans to explore Concordia’s flexible programs and take advantage of the university’s academic advising and veteran-specific resources. “The transition from military to civilian life can be challenging, but education provides a rewarding path forward—one where service continues, just in a different form,” she says.
A Vision for the Future
As Jamie looks ahead to her future as a teacher, she hopes to serve her community by creating a supportive and inclusive classroom environment. “Through my teaching career, I hope to serve my community by creating a supportive and inclusive environment where every student feels valued and capable of success,” she states.
She is especially passionate about working with students who face unique challenges, ensuring that they receive the encouragement and resources needed to reach their full potential. Additionally, she wants to be an advocate for families, particularly those navigating the special education system. “By fostering connections, promoting growth, and showing compassion, I hope to make a meaningful impact on my students’ lives and contribute positively to the community,” she shares.
For Jamie, teaching is more than a profession—it is a mission, one that allows her to continue serving others while living out her faith. Through her experiences as a Marine, a mother, and now an educator, she exemplifies what it means to lead with courage, compassion, and conviction.
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Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body, and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world. Our Education programs focus on optimizing your abilities to serve students, schools, and the community through education. We develop well-rounded educational professionals that can teach and lead in rural and urban communities. With a Christian-centered focus, relevant curriculum, and engaging faculty you can play a meaningful role in the world of education.
Dr. Adam Paape is assistant dean of the School of Education at Concordia University Wisconsin