Anthony Woods

Tony Woods was appointed by Governor Wes Moore to serve as Secretary of the Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families. The Department’s mission is to lead veterans, service members, and their families through life’s transitions, ensuring they receive the resources and support they deserve.

A proud Army veteran, Secretary Woods served two deployments to Iraq, earning a Bronze Star. He continues to serve as a Major in the U.S. Army Reserves, where he is assigned to the Joint Staff at the Pentagon as an Intelligence Analyst.

In the private sector, Secretary Woods has held impactful roles at Cisco Systems, The Boston Consulting Group, and Capital One. His public sector experience is equally distinguished, including leadership roles in mission-driven nonprofits and philanthropic enterprises, as well as serving as a White House Fellow under President Barack Obama. Secretary Woods’ educational background includes degrees from West Point, Harvard University, and the University of Maryland.

During his tenure in the Moore-Miller administration, Secretary Woods has prioritized enhancing outcomes for Maryland’s veterans and military families. Under his leadership, operational performance and culture at the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home have improved significantly. The Veterans Service Program, which assists veterans in accessing VA benefits, has reduced wait times, ensuring timely support for those who have served. The Department changed its name to reflect its focus on providing comprehensive support for military-connected families—including dependents, caregivers, and survivors—as part of its broader mission to serve this community.

Under Secretary Woods’ leadership, the Department also launched the Maryland Joins Forces initiative, which mobilizes partners across sectors to address issues affecting veterans and military families, ensuring that no one is left behind. This initiative has resulted in 19 signed MOAs and continues to grow.

In collaboration with the legislature, the Moore-Miller administration has successfully enacted over 30 laws benefiting veterans, service members, and their families. Landmark achievements include:

• The Keep Our Heroes Home Act: Increasing tax exemptions on military retirement pay.
• The Healthcare for Heroes Act: Providing free health and dental care for Maryland National Guard members.
• The Families Serve Act: Strengthening employment pathways for military spouses.

These initiatives underscore the administration’s unwavering commitment to making Maryland the best state for veterans and military families.

PRINTABLE BIO WITH PHOTO