Dr. Ken Marfilius is a United States Air Force veteran, proud Syracuse University alumnus, and former Syracuse University student-athlete. Dr. Marfilius graduated from Syracuse University with an undergraduate degree in Psychology in 2007. He was also a student-athlete on the rowing team for all four years.
In 2012, he received a direct commission into the U.S. Air Force after earning the prestigious U.S. Air Force Health Professions Scholarship while completing his graduate studies at the University of Pennsylvania. He served as a mental health provider in the Biomedical Science Corps, holding leadership roles such as family advocacy officer and manager of the Alcohol and Drug Prevention and Treatment Program, specializing in trauma care, suicide prevention, and sexual assault response.
In 2014, Dr. Marfilius married his wife, Emily, who is also a Syracuse University alum. They have two daughters, Eliza and Addison. Dr. Marfilius transitioned from active duty in 2016 at the rank of Captain and immediately began working at the Syracuse Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Center in the Healthcare for Homeless Veterans Program.
Dr. Marfilius is honored with several military decorations, including the Air Force Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and Nuclear Deterrence Operations Service Medal. He also received the U.S. Air Force Outstanding Unit Award and was twice named Medical Operations Squadron Company Grade Officer of the Quarter. His proudest military experience was the opportunity to serve in leadership positions where he met, mentored, and was mentored by exceptional men and women—experiences that now shape how he teaches and supports thousands of students who go on to serve military personnel, veterans, and their families.
Today, Dr. Marfilius continues his service through higher education. He is an Associate Teaching Professor in the School of Social Work and Faculty Director of Online Programs and Strategic Initiatives in the School of Education at Syracuse University. Dr. Marfilius also serves as Associate Director at the University’s Center for Health Behavior Research and Innovation and co-founded the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs Resiliency Program—an initiative that supports veteran and military-connected students as they transition into higher education and civilian life. He is a member of the Syracuse University Office of Veteran and Military Affairs Advisory Board and serves on the Faculty Oversight Committee on Athletics, contributing his expertise in mental health, military culture, and student success.
A recipient of multiple Syracuse University teaching and service awards—including the prestigious Meredith Teaching Recognition Award for Continuing Excellence—Dr. Marfilius remains deeply committed to advancing veteran well-being through education, research, and advocacy.
