Tanya Bradsher retired from the Army after reaching the rank of Lieutenant Colonel during her 20-year military career. Since then, Tanya Bradsher's husband, John Bradsher, has had to try a bit harder to squeeze in quality time with his wife. Bradsher's been putting in work and hours to help a variety of military-related organizations. Now, her esteemed career is taking yet another step forward for the betterment of the Veteran community. Tanya J. Bradsher is the new permanent Deputy Secretary for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Related read: The Future of the U.S. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

Tanya Bradsher is the New Deputy Secretary of VA

Tanya Bradsher has become the Deputy Secretary of VA after being confirmed by the U.S. Senate on September 12, 2023. This is the first time a woman has held the position, the second highest position found in the VA. The VA continues to look for leadership and solutions as more and more Veterans are in need of benefits. Bradsher has been instrumental in helping the organization meet these needs. In March of 2021, she was instrumental in rolling out the PACT Act while serving as the VA’s Chief of Staff. It’s an important step for the VA. This is the first time since 2014 that it has confirmed various leadership positions at the same time. The organization is filling roles with talented, hardworking leaders to meet evolving concerns within the military community. Suggested read: The PACT Act 2023 Special Enrollment Period is Ending in September

Experience and Knowledge Where it Matters Most

After just a quick look at the Tanya Bradsher VA Senior Executive biography it's easy to see exactly why she is the right person for the job. As a combat Veteran with two decades of service experience in the U.S. Army and experience as the VA's Chief of Staff, Bradsher has the knowledge to do the job right. Responsible for a $246 billion+ budget and over 424,000 employees who work for the VA, Bradsher knows how to overcome organization challenges from a leadership perspective. As a Soldier, Bradsher found success in various roles. These include working for the DoD, the Pentagon, and fighting in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Her years of experience position her deeply rooted within the military community. Moreover, she has the poise and expertise needed to navigate Washington. Bradsher's military awards include: Army Commendation Medals, Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Army Commendation Medals, Legion of Merit, and the Meritorious Service Medal. However, her impressive resume doesn't end there. Tanya Bradsher's American Psychiatric Association (APA) experience, Tanya Bradsher's National Security Council role, and her position within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) further prove her qualifications. Bradsher also attended George Washington University for her M.A. in Strategic Communications after receiving her B.A. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. It's clear that Bradsher has the right experience to provide truly outstanding leadership for the VA.

Tanya Bradsher Veterans Affairs Promotion Means a New Chief of Staff

Since March 1, 2023, the VA has been relying on the leadership of Guy Kiyokawa. He is currently serving as the Acting Deputy Secretary. However, now that Bradsher is taking over, Kiyokawa is taking back the role he had before filling in as the VA’s Assistant Secretary for Enterprise Integration. Because of this structural shuffle, it’s a bit curious as to who the VA will turn to as the new Chief of Staff. No one has been chosen just yet, but it’s expected that the VA will fill the role quickly. The VA has a vast reach and responsibility to our nation’s heroes. Therefore, those interested in the leadership position should brush up on all that it entails. It’s certainly no surprise that the role is going to require a lot from whoever is next. According to the VA’s Functional Organization Manual, the Chief of Staff of Veterans Affairs (COSVA) is going to work to ensure that various offices, officials, and administrations are working to support the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (SECVA) and the Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs (DEPSECVA). Whoever takes over for Tanya Bradsher is sure to be in close contact with her. The Veteran population deserves an organization that is emphasizing dignity and access to world-class care. With this key leadership role newly filled, the VA is one step closer to fulfilling that promise. Read next: Oracle Cerner VA Health Solution Rollout Being Pushed to 2024