Bay College proudly announces Dr. Thad Strom, Associate Director of the Oscar G. Johnson VA Healthcare System, as a recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award, honoring his exceptional leadership, service, and lasting impact on Veterans’ healthcare and the Upper Peninsula community.
A Gladstone native, Strom began his academic journey at Bay College, earning an associate in arts degree in 1997. He went on to earn advanced degrees, including a doctoral degree in counseling psychology, building a career rooted in service and leadership. Today, he is recognized as a strong advocate for Veterans and rural healthcare.
During his nearly 20 years with the VA Healthcare System, Strom has advanced mental health care at both national and local levels. A leader in PTSD treatment, he has trained hundreds of clinicians nationwide and contributed to research that has helped reshape standards of care and improve thousands of lives.
Since returning to Upper Michigan in 2018, Strom has brought innovation and servant leadership to the Oscar G. Johnson VA Healthcare System. Under his leadership, the facility has been nationally recognized for its mental health program, reinstated the region’s only doctoral psychology internship program, and strengthened the future workforce for rural Veteran care. Now serving as Associate Director, he continues to guide strategic, people‑centered change while maintaining board certification as one of only three psychologists in the Upper Peninsula with that distinction.
Strom credits Bay College as a pivotal influence in his life. “Bay College taught me more than course content—it taught me how to be a student and take ownership of my success,” said Strom. “That foundation gave me the confidence to pursue opportunities I never thought possible.” He added, “What makes Bay College so impactful is its commitment to students. It’s a place where growth is encouraged and where people truly care about your success.”
Beyond his professional role, Strom remains deeply engaged in his community, supporting local schools, serving in his faith community, and contributing to his family’s non-profit organization, Senior Crafting Connections, which is designed to strengthen connections across generations.
“Bay College takes tremendous pride in the achievements of our alumni,” said Laurie Mold, Alumni Engagement & Conference Services Coordinator at the College. “Dr. Strom’s career stands as a testament to the lasting impact a Bay College education can have. His leadership, dedication to service, and commitment to others embodies the very spirit of our Distinguished Alumni Award.”
Strom was formally recognized at Bay College’s annual Awards Celebration in April and will also be the guest speaker at the College’s Commencement Ceremony in 2027. The Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award honors graduates who demonstrate outstanding professional achievement, community service, and a strong connection to Bay College. Strom’s contributions to healthcare, education, and the Upper Peninsula community make him a truly deserving recipient.
For more information about the Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award, please visit www.baycollege.edu/alumni or email alumni@baycollege.edu.
About Bay College
Bay College is the community’s college with a mission of: Student Success, Community Success, and Culture of Success. Bay is devoted to each individual’s achievement in the classroom, on-campus, online, in the community and into the workforce by providing career certificates, associate degrees, transferable university credits, industry certifications, trainings, and professional development programs which develop skillsets, enrich individuals, and advance careers. #BayIsTheWay