Southern California Program Coordinator | O2O camarina@syr.edu

Cynthia Marinaccio holds the position of Program Coordinator for Onward to Opportunity in Southern California, concurrently leveraging her background as a United States Air Force veteran. Her academic journey culminated in the obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Technical Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Following her honorable separation from the Air Force, Cynthia demonstrated her commitment to personal and professional growth by attaining Master’s degrees in Human Resource Management and Organizational Leadership.

Beginning her service to the military and veteran community in 2014, Cynthia Marinaccio swiftly established herself as an authority in veteran employment and advocacy within the Southern Californian veteran, non-profit, and education sectors. Recognized as the “go-to” resource for all matters pertaining to veteran welfare, her distinct ability to converge organizations and resources remains instrumental in assisting transitioning veterans, active-duty service members, and resilient military spouses as they embark on their subsequent ventures towards accomplishment.

In 2019 Cynthia was selected as a distinguished Finalist for the coveted title of San Diego Women Veteran of Influence, an accolade underscoring her remarkable contributions to the veteran community. Her remarkable insights were sought as a featured panelist with the San Diego Military Family Collaborative, where she espoused best practices and illuminated the transformative potential of collaboration within the veteran ecosystem. An embodiment of her advocacy was captured in the 2018 Shondaland feature article titled “How Women Vets are Reclaiming Their Purpose,” where Cynthia’s impactful work centered on aiding women veterans’ seamless transition from military service to civilian life.

Dedicating herself to catalyzing positive change, Cynthia assumed the pivotal role of Vice President for the San Diego Women Veterans Network. Her stewardship was pivotal in the inception of transformative programs such as Women Veteran Walks and the Women Veterans Health Forum. Her commitment to empowerment materialized through her role as a Peer Leader and facilitator for WOVEN, a national organization fostering mentorship, sisterhood, and collaboration among women veterans. Furthering her community-oriented engagement, she undertook the position of Peer Support Group Leader for the Wounded Warrior Project in San Diego, passionately advocating for the well-being of Post-9/11 veterans affected by service-connected ailments.

Cynthia Marinaccio’s exceptional journey mirrors an unwavering commitment to service, advocacy, and empowerment, positioning her as a respected advocate within the area of veteran welfare and community collaboration. Her multifaceted contributions have not only enriched individual lives but have also imparted a lasting impact on the collective aspirations of the veteran community.