AGENCY TESTIMONY
Introduction and overview of the Veterans Advisory Board
1:15:00
ยท
22 sec
Mercedes Elias, Chair of the New York City Veterans Advisory Board (VAB), introduces herself and provides background on her role and experience with the VAB. She mentions the presence of Ryan Graham, the vice chair, and briefly touches on her history with the board.
- Elias has served on the VAB since 2020, previously as secretary for 3 years before becoming chair.
- The VAB and Department of Veterans Services (DVS) have evolved significantly to address veteran needs in NYC.
- The introduction sets the stage for a comprehensive overview of the VAB's current state and challenges.
Mercedes Elias
1:15:00
Good afternoon.
1:15:01
My name is Mercedes Lias, and I'm a US Marine Corps veteran currently serving as the chair of the New York City Veterans Advisory Board.
1:15:08
With me is Ryan Graham, US Air Force veteran, who serves as the vice chair for the board.
1:15:14
I have served as a member of the VAB since 2020, serving as secretary of the board for 3 years prior to taking over as chair last year.