SANDRA ANN COALSON

Sandra Ann Coalson was born and raised in Columbia, South Carolina, where she graduated from Dreher High School as a varsity cheerleader. Early in her career, she worked as a licensed insurance adjuster and later served as a security lieutenant for Eastern Airlines at the Columbia Airport—a role that sparked her strong sense of duty and leadership.

Sandra went on to serve 20 honorable years in the U.S. Army, rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant (SSG, E-6). She held diverse roles including Food Service Specialist, Operating Room Technician, and Instructor/Writer for the Army’s Operating Room Specialist and Anatomy & Physiology courses at Fort Sam Houston. Her assignments took her from Ft. Jackson, SC, to Germany, Louisiana, and Texas, culminating in service that was both technical and deeply impactful. She later deployed to Kuwait and Qatar as a civilian contractor, training troops across eight desert bases in medical record systems.

After retiring from the military, Sandra continued her federal service as a Human Resources Specialist at Randolph Air Force Base, retiring as a GS-12 after 10 years. Her total federal and military service reflects a lifetime of commitment to excellence and public service.

She holds an Associate of Applied Science, a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Education, and a Master of Arts in Human Resource Management from Wayland Baptist University, where she graduated on the Dean’s List.

Sandra is a decorated veteran whose awards include three Meritorious Service Medals, multiple Commendation and Achievement Medals, and recognition at both the Women Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., and the Veterans Memorial Park in Schertz, Texas.

Passionate about faith and community, Sandra actively serves with the Resurrection Baptist Church in Schertz, TX, in the Health and Missionary Ministries. She volunteers with the American Red Cross at Randolph Clinic and is a proud member of the NCO Association, American Legion Post 667, and the National Association of Black Military Women.

Sandra is married to Christopher and is the proud mother of one daughter, Sabrina. She enjoys traveling, discovering antiquities, fine dining, reading, and sharing her testimony to inspire and uplift others—especially women veterans of color.