Former Navy yeoman Ray Sullivan, an undergraduate student majoring in both psychology and sociology, now advocates for victims of sexual assault during military service.
Sullivan speaking at OSU's annual Out of the Darkness campus walk in 2023.
By Taylor Pedersen, CLA Student Writer - September 18, 2024
Ray Sullivan’s story, stemming from a turbulent childhood in Bend, Oregon, to becoming a devoted advocate for veterans and survivors of sexual assault, epitomizes his extraordinary resilience and determination. At 17, Ray’s entry into the military was unconventional, catalyzed by a brush with the law during high school. A fight sparked over helping a friend led to an ultimatum: join the Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) or face a harsher penalty. Opting for JROTC was a turning point. Initially skeptical, Sullivan soon found support and structure in the program's discipline and camaraderie. “It was the best decision I ever made,” he said, crediting JROTC for providing a much-needed foundation and a sense of purpose during his teenage years.
In the Navy, Sullivan's roles were diverse and demanding. Joining as a yeoman, he handled administrative tasks, managed awards and evaluations, and contributed to policy formulation on the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln. His responsibilities extended across three continents, where he served as a lead secretary to multiple admirals and as a sexual assault response victim advocate. “I was the leading victim advocate for three continents while stationed in Italy, which involved a lot of additional education and training ” he shared. This role involved support, education, and training, ensuring that others could carry on their vital work without harm.
One of Sullivan's most memorable experiences in the Navy encapsulates his commitment to helping others. During a deployment, he worked tirelessly to secure a humanitarian leave for a fellow sailor, whose mother had died. Despite bureaucratic hurdles and the improbability of getting the sailor off the ship in time, Sullivan's persistence paid off. “I got him off the boat within hours and two weeks in Jamaica to take care of business,” Ray recalled. This act of kindness was reciprocated in a small but meaningful way when the sailor gifted him a Jamaican mug after Sullivan’s had been stolen on the ship, which he says he still holds onto today.
Transitioning back to civilian life after six years in the Navy was one of Ray's greatest challenges. The camaraderie and sense of purpose he found in the military were difficult to replace. "It was lonely," he admitted, describing the struggle to find understanding and connection in a civilian world that felt alien after years of military service. His work with the Veterans Affairs (VA) in Bend as a houseless case manager and his involvement with the military-connected community at Oregon State University (OSU) became lifelines. These roles allowed him to continue serving his community and find a new sense of belonging. Now, as a peer education specialist at OSU’s Military Veteran Resource Center, Sullivan continues to support veterans.
Sullivan’s military experiences enormously influenced his academic pursuits. Driven by his passion for advocacy and his desire to address systemic issues like sexual assault, he chose to pursue a dual major in sociology and psychology, with a minor in women, gender, and sexuality studies at OSU. He speaks highly of the mentors who guided him.
One of the most significant figures in Sullivan’s journey is Willie Elfering, the director of the Military Veteran Resource Center at OSU. Elfering, affectionately referred to as the “dad” of the veterans’ community, has been a guiding force for Sullivan and many others. "He really helps all of us find a place," Sullivan explained. Elfering's experience as a 30-year Army veteran and his dedication to supporting military-connected students have created a nurturing environment that fosters growth and community.
Another influential mentor is Master Chief JW Terry, Sullivan's high school teacher and later his boss at the VA in Bend. Terry's unwavering support and belief in Sullivan's potential were crucial during his transition back to civilian life. Additionally, Dr. Dwaine Plaza, professor of sociology, played a pivotal role in validating Sullivan's academic interests, particularly in the field of gendered sociology. Dr. Plaza's encouragement led Sullivan to publish a 32-page thesis on masculinity and incels, solidifying his passion for research and advocacy.
Looking ahead, Sullivan envisions a future where he can continue to educate and advocate, particularly as a professor of sociology. He aims to shed light on the true experiences of veterans, challenging stereotypes, and highlighting the diverse talents and contributions of those who have served. “There’s poets, there’s lawyers, there’s doctors, there’s artists, we’re all around the world,” he asserted. His ultimate goal is to leave a legacy of compassion and understanding in the field of military sexual assault support and advocacy. "You never know what someone is going through," Ray emphasized. "Being a good person, recognizing your strengths, and helping others—that's what I want to be remembered for."
Sullivan's story is powerful—a journey of transformation and dedication. Using personal adversity as fuel for his determination, Sullivan has become a beacon of support for others. His experiences remind us of the importance of community, understanding, and, as he puts it, "just being a good human.”
Sullivan speaking at OSU's In Memoriam in 2024.