Smith Vets Club
Smith Vets is established for the expressed purpose of facilitating contact between current MBA students and potential employers, maintaining an outreach program for prospective veteran applicants, and perpetuating a network of veteran students able to assist each other throughout the MBA program. We are committed to coordinating value-added events that build close camaraderie amongst our distinguished members and the Smith MBA cohort.
Club Email: smith-club-smithvets@umd.edu
Group Email: rhsmith-smithvets-group@umd.edu
Board Members
Alexandra Pogany
President
apogany@umd.edu
Alex Pogany is a MBA candidate at the Robert H. Smith School of Business and the proud President of Smith Vets. Originally from Northville, Michigan, she served in the United States Army as a logistics officer, spending nearly six years of her military career overseas.
Alex brings a global perspective and a deep commitment to service, leadership, and community. As President, she is focused not only on supporting veteran students, but also on building meaningful connections between the military and civilian worlds. She aims to foster greater understanding of veteran experiences across campus and ensure that Smith Vets is fully integrated with the broader university community and other student clubs. Through this inclusive approach, she hopes to create opportunities for collaboration, growth, and lifelong leadership.
Fun Fact
I was in a TV commerical, I've traveled to 32 countries and I like to bake bread.
Tom Aranda
Vice President of Finance
taranda@umd.edu
Tom has a unique background having served in the Marine Corps, a Trooper with the New York State Police, and a Consultant at Deloitte. These diverse roles have honed his ability to adapt quickly to new environments and high stress challenges in both domestic and international locations. He’s passionate about helping others, especially veterans, as they navigate the uncertainty and mental challenges of transitioning to life after the military.
Fun Fact
I enjoy training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Ryan Massey
Vice President of Communications
rmassey1@umd.edu
Ryan Massey is a MBA candidate at UMD and serves as Vice President of Communications for Smith Vets. He served as an intelligence officer in the U.S. Army, and is a proud graduate of the University of Georgia as well. He is passionate about supporting veterans and promoting a close-knit community in the DMV. In his free time, he enjoys running, hiking, skiing, lifting weights, and craft beer.
Fun Fact
I've ran 3 marathons so far.