Lessie Branch, Ph.D., is the Special Assistant for Community Engagement for the New York State Department of Veterans' Services. In this role, Dr. Branch supports community engagement and initiatives for the Veterans of New York State and their families. This engagement includes activities aimed at increasing efforts to reach women, minorities, faith-based and other marginalized Veteran communities. Dr. Branch holds a Ph.D. in Public and Urban Policy from The New School and is a proud Navy Veteran.