Travis Akers

Travis Akers is a retired U.S. Navy Intelligence Officer, military families advocate, and educator based in Jacksonville, Florida. Originally from South Carolina, he has dedicated nearly 30 years to public service and community engagement.

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During his career in the U.S. Navy, Akers held several key positions, including Director of Intelligence, Maritime Security Director, and Deputy Chief of Analysis. His leadership was instrumental in global missions across multiple regions including the Middle East, Europe, Southeast Asia, and Central and South America. He retired in 2024 following a distinguished career, being recognized with numerous medals, personal awards, and unit and campaign awards. After completing a corporate fellowship with a top defense firm, and spending a short period as a Business Director, Travis followed his next calling as an educator, and now teaches World History in Jacksonville's largest and most diverse high school. 

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Akers is currently a doctoral candidate in Education Leadership and holds a Master of Public Administration from Villanova University and a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Management from the University of Arizona. He has been acknowledged by the White House and other prominent institutions for his advocacy on veterans' issues, including contributions to the PACT Act. In 2024, he ran for the Duval County School Board District 7 seat, and despite having to withdraw from the race for health reasons, he remains committed to public education advocacy and the local community.

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Beyond his professional endeavors, Akers is a devoted husband and father. He actively participates in local initiatives, having served on Mayor Donna Deegan's Military and Veterans Affairs Committee, advising the Urban League’s Veterans Community Center, serving on the Villanova Alumni Association Northeast Florida Chapter Board, and volunteering with organizations such as the Wildlife Rescue Coalition of Northeast Florida and The Laundry Project. Additionally, he leads children's bible study, plays in his church's praise band, and coaches youth soccer.

 

In addition to advocacy work, Akers has been featured in various media. He has appeared in outlets such as The New York Times, Newsweek, The Washington Post, Fox News, MSNBC, and CNN, discussing topics related to veterans' issues, gun safety, and social issues. He is also the co-founder of Left of Bang, a working group comprised of fellow veterans focused on creating sensible solutions to end gun violence in the United States.

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Akers maintains an active community presence, engaging with a broad audience to advocate for veterans' rights, public education, and social issues. His multifaceted career reflects a profound commitment to leadership and community service.