Clear Path for Veterans names new CEO

CHITTENANGO, N.Y. — Clear Path for Veterans says it has chosen Ryan Woodruff, a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, as its new CEO. Woodruff previously served as chief program officer for the nonprofit organization, per an Oct. 29 announcement. He is succeeding Chris Flaherty as CEO, according to an email from Sarah Clark, Clear Path’s events and marketing manager. Woodruff began his career at Clear Path as a peer-support specialist and during that time, received services himself as he was transitioning from military life to civilian life, the organization said. “Having personally felt the profound impact of Clear Path for Veterans’ programs, I am truly honored to lead our organization into this next chapter,” Woodruff said in the Clear Path announcement. “To our veterans, families, community members, and beloved canines, my commitment is to prioritize you as we continue to build upon the incredible work we’re passionate about. Together, we’ll thrive and achieve even more for our community.” When receiving help through Clear Path after his military service, Woodruff participated in the nonprofit’s canine program and was connected with a service dog. Through that relationship, he discovered his passion for training service dogs and placing them with veterans. He attended a canine-training school and became a nationally certified trainer. Woodruff served in the U.S. Marine Corps in the 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment. He was deployed twice to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom as an infantry rifleman. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry. “Ryan is an exceptional leader whose unwavering commitment to excellence and innovative thinking will guide Clear Path into its next chapter,” Alex Behm, chief community officer at Clear Path for Veterans, said in the announcement. “I have every confidence that under Ryan’s stewardship, we will continue to deliver superior programs and services to veterans and their families. His deep understanding of our values and vision makes Ryan the perfect choice to lead us forward.” Clear Path for Veterans says it supports veterans, service members, and military families through community building, supportive programming, and direct services to “enrich their lives and address the wellness and social issues they face.” Its main campus is located at 1223 Salt Springs Road in Chittenango with a satellite location at 126 N. Salina St. in Syracuse.