Faculty & Staff Archives - The Citadel Today

The Citadel Graduate College recognizes outstanding faculty and student accomplishments

Wed, 07 May 2025 13:41:12 +0000

During commencement season, The Citadel recognizes members of the graduating class who excelled during their time at the college, as well as some of the outstanding faculty who helped educate them.

Each year, The Citadel Graduate College celebrates student and faculty excellence in areas of academics, leadership and service during the annual CGC Awards Ceremony.

On Thursday, May 1, more than 20 students and educators were recognized during the 2025 CGC Awards Ceremony in Capers Hall prior to the 2025 Commencement ceremonies.

Award recipients include:

Graduate Student Award for Academic Excellence and Leadership:

Dalton Hazelwood

The graduate student award recognizes an exceptional student that has demonstrated academic excellence and leadership while at The Citadel.

College Transfer Program Student Award for Academic Excellence and Leadership:

Natalie Mueller

The evening undergraduate student award recognizes an exceptional student that has demonstrated both academic excellence and leadership while at The Citadel.

Veteran Student Success Center Award for Academic Excellence and Leadership:

Joshua Wetmore

The veteran student award recognizes an exceptional student that has demonstrated both academic excellence and leadership while at The Citadel.

Faculty Award for Outstanding Contributions to the Graduate College

Dr. Timothy Mays

The faculty award was created to recognize a distinguished faculty member that has made outstanding contributions to graduate education on campus.

Faculty Award for Outstanding Contributions to the College Transfer Program:

Dr. Simon Ghanat

The faculty award was created to recognize a distinguished faculty member that has made outstanding contributions to graduate education on campus.

Hirshey Awards

Katrina Driskell

Coletta Bethea

Kevin Peters

Christine Zamboki

Anna King

The Hirshey Awards are presented each spring to both graduate and cadet students exemplifying excellence in education in honor of Charles Hirshey, Ph.D., the head of The Citadel Department of Education from 1969 to 1979. Hirshey is a pioneer of graduate education in the Lowcountry and a founding member of what is now The Citadel Graduate College.

Aline M. Mahan Award

Julie Chave

The Aline M. Mahan Award is presented annually to graduates who have demonstrated an outstanding record of scholarship, technical skill and community service in the school psychology program at The Citadel.

J. Patrick Leverett Award

Aysha Ballis

The J. Patrick Leverett Award is presented to the year’s outstanding graduate of the Department of Psychology’s master’s degree program in clinical counseling. This award honors Professor Pat Leverett, who served as a faculty member in the department for 10 years.

Michael Politano Graduate Research Award

Michelle Johnson

Presented annually by the faculty in the Department of Psychology to one student from either the School Psychology or Clinical Counseling program who has evidenced excellence in the domain of clinical research. The award honors the contributions of Dr. Politano, emeritus professor in the Department of Psychology, who tirelessly worked to advance the field and discipline.

BG Michael B. Barrett, USAR, ‘68 Military History Graduate Student Award

John C. Matthews

The Online MA in Military History program offers the BG Michael B. Barrett, USAR, ’68, Military History Graduate Student Award for students engaged in archival or manuscript research for their thesis or capstone seminar projects. This award was made possible by the generosity of Dr. A.J. Cianflocco.

MBA Student of the Year

Sophie Childs

The MBA Outstanding Student of the Year Award is determined by a vote of faculty members who teach in the MBA program. It is presented to a graduate who has demonstrated an exceptional record of academic achievement and principled leadership within the MBA program.

MBA Faculty Member of the Year

Dr. Susan Wright

The MBA Faculty Member of the Year Award is determined by a vote of Citadel MBA students and is presented to a faculty member who has demonstrated outstanding commitment to the education of their students.

Business College Transfer Program Student of the Year

Tyler Christmas

The award is presented to an undergraduate student who has demonstrated an exceptional record of academic achievement and principled leadership within the program. The award is determined by a vote of faculty members who teach in the evening College Transfer Program.

Business College Transfer Program Faculty of the Year

Dr. Cynthia Bolt

Determined by a vote of the evening undergraduate students, The School of Business recognizes the accomplishments of one of our evening undergraduate professors with the award.

Swain Family School of Mathematics and Science Outstanding Graduate Student

Dalton Hazelwood

Ellie Belcher

Logan Bacsal

Department of Leadership Studies Lieutenant General John Rosa Award

Mikela Herring

Each year, the Department of Leadership Studies confers the Lieutenant General John W. Rosa Award upon the top-performing Master of Science in Leadership student. This award recognizes outstanding academic achievement, student engagement and scholarly excellence in Leadership Studies.

Master of Science in Engineering Student of the Year   

Elizabeth Miller

Col. Charles Lindbergh Award – Most Outstanding Student in the College Transfer Program in Civil/Construction Engineering

Natalie Mueller

Joshua Wetmore

Electrical Engineering Student of the Year

Annastasha Wenzel

Computer Engineering Student of the Year

Andrew Goossens

Department of Mechanical Engineering Undergraduate Student of the Year

Chance Weise

M.S. Project Management Outstanding Student of the Year

Emily Danielsson

The Citadel hosts Advising Summit to improve student support

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 19:08:10 +0000

Photo: Citadel cadets, students, faculty and staff gather in Bastin Hall on The Citadel’s campus for the first-ever Advising Summit. (Courtesy: Citadel English professor Tom Thompson, Ph.D.)

By Andrew Granger, CGC ’26

Recently, The Citadel held its first-ever Advising Summit, a campus-wide event inviting faculty, staff and students to engage in an afternoon of collaboration and professional development to strengthen the college’s academic support system.

The summit, themed “Building from Baseline: Sharing Our Current Best Practices,” included a keynote speaker, student panel and breakout presentations, all aiming to help improve advising practices and create a more unified academic community.

“As we continue to develop principled leaders at The Citadel, effective advising plays a pivotal role in shaping the success of our students,” said Stephanie Fye, director of advising at The Citadel. “This summit was an exciting opportunity for all faculty, staff and students to come together, share our best practices and learn from one another.”

The event kicked off with a keynote address from Karen Hauschild, member of the National Academic Advising Association, or NACADA, and the director of the Academic Advising and Planning Center at The College of Charleston. She emphasized that strong advising is key for student retention.

“The most effective way to keep students engaged and enrolled is by keeping them motivated, challenged and moving toward meaningful goals. The best way to achieve this is through thoughtful, informed, academic advising,” said Hauschild, referring to research by Edward ‘Chip’ Anderson, Academic Advising for Student Success and Retention.

Hauschild also covered a problem second-year students tend to encounter, known as “the sophomore slump.” She explained that this burned-out feeling can originate from adjusting to increased academic demands, pressure to choose the right major or career path and not getting the same amount of attention as freshmen. To combat this, Hauschild urged advisors to regularly check in with their students through a variety of methods to ensure they are reaching their goals and supporting their overall well-being.

After Hauschild’s keynote speech, a student panel was held, allowing cadets and students to provide feedback to their advisors. It was one of the most impactful segments of the summit, allowing faculty and staff to ask questions and hear how their advising techniques affected their students directly. Five students – a veteran student, cadet, cadet-athlete, graduate student and transfer student – shared their experiences and answered questions about advising at The Citadel.

“There is no more powerful way for advisors to learn and grow than by hearing directly from the students they serve,” said Tay Thompson, graduate assistant and panel mediator. “The remarkable individuals who participated in the panel offered responses that were not only insightful but profoundly thought-provoking. What resonated most was the importance of fostering collaboration between students and advisors and the critical need to create welcoming spaces – a space where students are met without judgment and where they feel safe to share their academic struggles and personal and professional concerns.”

Finally, faculty and staff presented in several breakout sessions, sharing approaches and tools to advising students through their academic and personal development. Topics included executing the perfect student advising appointment, teaching confidence and self-reliance, equipping students for future success and helping student-athletes and transfer students manage exhausting schedules.

They also urged faculty to encourage students to engage with campus events, build long-term goals, and seek study-abroad and internship opportunities.

Organizers and participants described the summit as the beginning of a shift toward stronger, more student-centered advising at The Citadel. It served as an opportunity for departments from different parts of campus to connect and made the advising process more integrated.

“I’m extremely grateful for the planning team’s hard work and dedication that made the summit a success,” said Fye. “We’re so encouraged by the incredible faculty support, and it was inspiring to hear from our students and learn from presenters who shared innovative strategies and fresh ideas to elevate advising at The Citadel. Together, we’re shaping a brighter future for our community, and we’re already looking forward to another great summit next year!”

Andrew Granger of Atlanta, Georgia earned his bachelor’s degree from The Virginia Military Institute in English, Rhetoric and Humanistic Studies. He is currently working as a graduate assistant in the Office of Communications and Marketing while pursuing a master’s degree in Project Management and competing for The Citadel’s Track and Field program.

The Citadel recognizes Team of the Year and Employee of the Year

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 17:32:03 +0000

Each year, The Citadel honors one team and one employee for their outstanding efforts and performance that goes above and beyond.

For the 2024-25 academic year, The Citadel recognized The Citadel Summerall Chapel, as the 2025 Team of the Year, and Kris Kut, the head track and field coach as the Employee of the Year.

Employees may be nominated for the award in writing by any member of the faculty or staff. The Citadel Staff Council reviews all nominations and selects the Employee and Team of the Year based on exceptional contributions to The Citadel, fellow employees and the community in the following areas:

Service and quality of work in performing “beyond the call of duty”
Impact of professionalism and dedication to excellence
Initiative and reliability beyond required assignments and expectations
Uniqueness of contributions

Here’s what set these employees apart:

Kris Kut, 2025 Employee of the Year

His nomination letter reads in part:

Kris is an outstanding employee who loves The Citadel. He bleeds Citadel blue as an alumnus, chair of Staff Council, track and field coach and campus resident. He has worked with the Athletic department for almost 25 years and is always helping others with any questions or concerns. Kris is always there for employees or students who need help. He is energetic and motivates others around him to care for the work that they do, engaging with our students and the campus community.

For the last several years, Kris served as Staff Council chair volunteering at almost every employee gathering to grill hot dogs, drag around coolers full of ice and be a smiling supporter of every HR, Athletics or Staff Council effort. He is the heart and soul behind almost every interaction from chili cookoffs, employee tailgates, appreciation days, lunches with coaches and campus clean-ups. He is not above any job and will always go above and beyond to make sure his alma mater is taken care of, and its people are appreciated. He is described by other coaches and employees as their “favorite person to work with” and ensures that our cadet athletes are supported every day.

The Citadel Summerall Chapel, 2025 Team of the Year

Members of the team include:

Rodney Barrentine
Nicole DeNeane
Aly Jose
Geri Jones
Aaron Meadows
Stephen Rutland
Jeff Shealy
Michael Varnadore

Their nomination letter reads in part:

The Summerall Chapel team ensured the completion a $800,000 audio visual system project making the chapel more usable for worship and other events for campus while also managing the construction of the $370,000 dollar wheelchair access and ADA entrance for increased access to The Citadel’s worshipping community. Of note, The Citadel’s Chapel Staff began the stain-glass window restoration project, preserving the historic aesthetics of the Summerall Chapel.

The Chapel Staff designed, fundraised and ensured completion of the hospitality counter and area that serves 300 cadets per week. They also directed three choir and music groups while also hosting 50 worship and community events which positively impacted 10,000 worshipers.

Their annual Christmas Candlelight Service blesses over 3,000 members of The Citadel family and Charleston community annually. The staff’s chaplains have offered over 1,000 engagement hours to over 13,000 contacts, provided over 300 counseling sessions for cadets and over 75 counseling sessions for faculty and staff.

The team led the creation of an emergency fund that helps the campus community (students, faculty and staff) with emergency resources annually, and they manage over 20 campus ministries that provides thousands of man-hours per week developing and mentoring the corps of cadets.

The team fundraised over $1.5 million dollars for facilities restoration and operational costs that are not covered by state funds. Additionally, the Summerall Chapel Team sponsors 40 volunteers who provide 5,000 volunteer hours, and weekly services to nearly 1,300 students between Monday and Thursday evenings.

The Summerall Chapel Team’s professionalism, perseverance and untiring devotion to duty reflected great credit upon them and were in keeping with the highest traditions of The Citadel and the state of South Carolina.

The Citadel names Art Chase as new athletic director

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 19:02:15 +0000

Art Chase leaves Duke to take the helm of The Citadel Athletics.

The Citadel President Gen. Glenn Walters, USMC (Ret.), ’79, announced the new hire on Wednesday, Feb. 19, after a nationwide search that included nearly 100 high-caliber candidates.

“I am excited that Art Chase is returning to The Citadel to lead our athletic teams after 25 years at Duke University,” said Walters. “He is exceptionally qualified, familiar with our mission and prepared to make all our programs and athletes successful.”

Chase served as the Assistant Sports Information Director at The Citadel for two years in the 1990s before working at Presbyterian College in a similar role. He returned to The Citadel for three years as the Sports Information Director before departing in 2001 for the Duke University athletic department.

At Duke he was the Associate Sports Information Director (2000-04), Sports Information Director (2005-10), Assistant Director of Athletics/Sports Information (2011-13), Assistant Director of Athletics/External Affairs (2013-17) and Associate Director of Athletics/External Affairs (2017-18) before being elevated to his current position as the department’s Senior Associate Director of Athletics/External Affairs in 2018.

“Kaye and I are both honored and humbled to return to The Citadel, and we are grateful to General Walters for the opportunity to serve an elite group of cadet-student-athletes, coaches and staff,” said Chase. “Additionally, we are deeply appreciative of Richard Johnson, Bill Sansom and the entire search committee for their support and trust, as representing The Citadel is truly a tremendous privilege. Our commitment is to help achieve the institutional goal of developing principled leaders while placing a priority on the cadet-student-athlete experience in this challenging and evolving era of college athletics. We look forward to engaging with the many internal and external stakeholders who make The Citadel such a special place.”

At Duke, Chase worked with a hugely successful lacrosse program that won multiple national championships and nine ACC championships. Over the last three seasons he also had management responsibilities with the second-winningest period of Duke football in history.

The Citadel’s athletic director search committee worked with Parker Executive Search, an external search firm, to promote the position and narrow the field to a small number of candidates.

Chase replaces Mike Capaccio, who retired after joining The Citadel in 2012; he was named athletic director in 2018. To read more about The Citadel Athletics, click here.

The Citadel achieves perfect score during reaccreditation process

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 16:00:34 +0000

The Citadel has successfully met all the requirements for its once-a-decade reaccreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, or SACSCOC. Reaccreditation certifies the institution’s academic quality and general legitimacy, grants access to Title IV financing and verifies the value of education that cadets and students receive.

“This reaccreditation confirms The Citadel’s commitment to leadership development,” said The Citadel President Gen. Glenn Walters, USMC (Ret.), ’79. “Thanks to the successful efforts of our provost, Dr. Selden and her team, this process has highlighted the rigorous standards we hold our cadets and students to, as well as the sound fiscal management of the college.”

The reaccreditation process began more than a year ago. The Citadel was required to provide SACSCOC copious data about financial operations, academic programs and faculty certifications, among many other sets of data. This was followed by an on-campus visit by accrediting members in March of 2024. The unanimous vote to recertify The Citadel took place at the SACSCOC meeting in Austin, Texas last week.

A primary focus for this year’s reaccreditation was improving and expanding advising in all forms. This includes ensuring that cadets, students and advisors have the correct information and proper resources to guarantee that students are graduating on time and are prepared to excel in their jobs after graduation. This initiative closely aligns with the college’s chosen QEP, or quality enhancement plan, of Advising Tomorrow’s Principled Leaders. The QEP played an integral role in the reaccreditation process, as all SACSCOC-accredited institutions are required to demonstrate how their QEP addresses student needs using data-driven approaches.

“Achieving accreditation is a major milestone for The Citadel and directly reflects the institution’s unwavering dedication to providing our cadets and students with an exceptional education,” said Sally Selden, Ph.D., SPHR, Provost of The Citadel. “Our accreditation from SACSCOC assures our students and their families that our academic programs are of the highest caliber and will prepare graduates to lead with distinction in their fields.”

Institutions accredited by SACSCOC must demonstrate compliance with the standards for accreditation as contained in The Principles of Accreditation: Foundations for Quality Enhancement, and with the policies and procedures of the Commission.

“We are so excited to receive a perfect score from SACSCOC, our institutional accrediting body. The work that has gone into this process has been challenging, but our entire campus stepped up and showed what everyone knows — The Citadel’s faculty and staff are dedicated to the success of our cadets and students,” said Karin Roof, The Citadel’s director of accreditation and assessment.

Additionally this year, The Citadel earned the prestigious position of Best Regional University in the South and was also named Best Public University in the South for the 14^th consecutive year and Best Colleges for Veterans in the South for the seventh year by U.S. News & World Report. Other notable rankings can be found here.

About SACSCOC and accreditation

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) is the regional commission responsible for accrediting degree‐granting institutions in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and some institutions in Latin America and other international sites approved by the SACSCOC Board of Trustees. The SACSCOC Board of Trustees is the representative body of the member institutions also known as the College Delegate Assembly. To gain or maintain accreditation, an institution must comply with SACSCOC policies, procedures, and with all standards contained in the Principles of Accreditation: Foundations for Quality Enhancement in the professional judgment of peer reviewers. SACSCOC’s institutional accreditation includes all degree levels regardless of location or mode of instruction.

Regional accreditation agencies are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to accredit degree-granting colleges and universities. There are six regions of the United States which regional agencies oversee. Regional accreditation validates the quality of an institution as a whole and evaluates multiple aspects of an institution, including its academic offerings, governance and administration, mission, finances, and resources. Institutions of higher education in the United States may also seek accreditation through national or specialized accreditation agencies. National accreditation associations, like regional accreditors, accredit the institution as a whole. Specialized accreditation agencies accredit programs, departments or schools within a college or university.

Citadel department head Dr. Riggle shares his journey in marketing, sales and leadership

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 15:48:03 +0000

Robert “Bob” Riggle, Ph.D., is a professor and the head of the Department of Marketing, Supply Chain Management and Economics at The Citadel. He holds a Ph.D. in Marketing from the University of South Florida, as well as a Master of Business Administration and B.A. in Public Administration from Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. Riggle’s current teaching and research interests include professional selling and sales management, sales leadership and quantitative methods. Prior to working on his Ph.D., Riggle held sales positions with Naylor Publications and Coca-Cola Enterprises. In addition to his academic duties, he has worked as consultant or subject matter expert in projects for McDonald’s Corporation, Caterpillar, Water Missions International, The Charleston Historic City Market/City Market Preservation Trust, Wal-Mart, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and many additional small business or startup firms.

Cadet Zoe Crecos, the current Regimental Public Affair’s Officer for the South Carolina Corps of Cadets, chose Riggle as a campus leader to interview.

Read more from their conversation below.

Tell me a bit about your journey that led you to academia and what inspired you to specialize in Marketing?

I never planned to go into academia. I didn’t really know what sort of job I wanted to do, but I was always interested in government and politics. So, I leaned towards political science before a friend of mine told me about public administration, where you could work as a city manager or some sort of other government job, and I thought that sounded really interesting. I started taking some business classes and I found that I was interested in that kind of topic along with political science. When I finished my undergraduate degree, I had an opportunity to go straight into an MBA program, and when I finished that, I went into corporate. I worked in several different types of sales roles – selling jewelry, watches and advertising space in different publications – and through those experiences I learned that I don’t really want to be stuck in an office all the time. A job at Coca-Cola came up and I applied for it, and there I learned a lot about supply chain, corporate sales, key account sales and managing relationships within the supply chain. I got a call one day from a former professor of mine who had become the dean at my alma mater, and he was looking for somebody to teach marketing and sales. So, I applied and I got the job. Before that, I didn’t think I wanted to get a Ph.D., but I enjoyed the teaching so much, and so early, that I felt like I needed one in order to keep teaching. So that’s when I went on to the University of South Florida to get my doctorate in marketing.

Before working at The Citadel, you worked in different positions during your career. How did those roles shape your approach to teaching today?

Before I came to The Citadel, I was at Northern Illinois University, where I was a marketing professor. That was my first real job out of my Ph.D. program. I had five or six years of teaching experience and I felt really good in the classroom. And I was teaching hard classes like marketing, research and marketing strategy. I also worked at Dillard’s in the fashion jewelry, fine jewelry and watches area for a time. I really felt like that helped me learn that sales was a natural fit for me. I sold more watches than anyone else in the time that I was there. I was able to close the deals and keep my numbers up, and it put me in a position to work in advertising sales, where I was an account manager for Naylor Publications in Gainesville, Florida. I worked at Naylor for a while, and I had a really good sales training there. They had mastered training someone without a sales background into being a business-to-business representative for them. It made me kind of bored, since that type of role is constantly on the phone. I did decent with that, but I was stuck in a cubicle making phone calls day after day after day. But I learned and I was able to hone my skills in selling through that process. We started out with scripts, and that made sure that we hit all the important points of the sales process, but quickly I was able to kind of develop my own style while also hitting all of those all of those points. I was working with someone whose husband was a sales manager at Coca Cola for Central Florida, and he told me about some of the things that Coca Cola was doing, and I felt like it was an opportunity to get into an outside sales role and be out working with customers. I learned a lot about the supply chain side of managing drivers, managing merchandisers and managing different programs for different types of products. And that has been really helpful in providing examples in the classroom as well as coaching students.

What led you to transition from corporate roles at companies like Coca-Cola to a career in teaching and research?

Going into teaching was not something on my radar. When I was getting my MBA, I was a grad assistant for several professors, and through my interactions with them I saw what a professor needs to be successful. But then the next piece was research, and I did not think I would be interested in it at all. After going into the upper-level statistics courses, which I never really excelled at in undergrad, I kind of got my act together in my last year of undergrad and I learned how to study. Going into the Ph.D. program, you have to reformat how you think. I really do enjoy the qualitative side of research, but I enjoyed also the statistics as well as learning and implementing new knowledge that I’ve been gaining in different statistical techniques. Of course I never thought that this would be where I would end up. If you’d ask anybody who I graduated high school with what would I be doing, they would say probably something in marketing or sales, or politics or government, because those were the things that I gravitated most to, but not being a professor and certainly not being a researcher.

How do you think The Citadel’s military structure and environment improves or influences your teaching?

One of the things that I appreciate about The Citadel, when it comes to the military side, is how it prepares students for rejection in sales. People are going to have rejection and it’s something that is natural. It’s something that you should get used to. At other schools where I’ve taught sales, the fear of rejection was pretty high, but one of the things I noticed early on here at The Citadel is cadets and students are kind of used to hitting that brick wall but continuing to push forward. And I think that grit or perseverance really does set Citadel students up for really successful careers, specifically in sales and, subsequently, what I’ve seen is some really great success stories.

Can you share an experience from The Citadel where you felt you had a meaningful impact on a cadet’s journey?

I see students coming back or following up with me once they’ve gotten into a job and are experiencing real life firsthand. The impact that I’m able to have for students is helping prepare them in some small way to know what to expect when they get out of here. There’s no easy way to put this, but real life is difficult and a job is very difficult, and it requires a lot of dedication, perseverance, repetition and just being able to take rejection and not let it be personal.

How do you define effective leadership as a professor and department head at The Citadel?

I think leadership starts at the top. And leadership is critical for the success of any organization. The Citadel is unique in that we really do practice what we preach. We expect high levels of leadership traits or skills of our faculty, staff and administration as well as from our cadets and students. The Corps of Cadets has leadership positions and those positions have responsibilities. And I’ve had senior privates all the way to the regimental commander in my classes over the years. It’s important that you’re able to illustrate to people exactly what it is that you’re doing, because most people don’t understand a military environment and the types of things that you do to lead your peers. And that’s a very difficult position. I think also from an academic side, leadership can be defined as taking personal responsibility for your successes and failures. Showing up on time, being dedicated to the learning process, being respectful of your peers as well as your professors and giving everything that you have to the best of your ability to get the job done. The Citadel does a good job at giving students as much as they can handle because, while you think it’s difficult now and what you’re doing now is overwhelming, the reality is that when you go into the real world, the responsibilities increase exponentially. And you look back at college and you think, “Wow, I wish now I only had the things that I had to deal with then.” The Citadel does a good job of teaching students learn how to balance and manage time.

In what ways do you mentor or support students who are interested in pursuing careers in marketing or sales?

I talk with students daily about different career ideas that they’re interested in pursuing. One of the things I really try to harp on in my classes is that, if you know what industry you’re interested in going into, you should really start learning that industry as soon as possible. Because the thing that’s going to set you apart when you get out onto the job market is being able to have a high-level conversation with someone who’s in that industry while showing them that you know some of the current events that are going on, some of the things that are facing that industry, some of the things that are new. Having an understanding of the industry helps set a student apart. So, I really try to counsel students on that. I also tell them to get an internship or find out what kind of sales they want to do, because there’s all kinds of different sales jobs. I think that an internship that will help a student learn what they want to do and what they might not want to do.

Cadet Zoe Crecos is the Regimental Public Affairs Officer for the South Carolina Corps of Cadets. Crecos, who is from Palm Beach, Florida, is a Marketing and Business Development major with a minor in Data Science. When she graduates, she will be pursuing a career in Supply Chain Management.

A message from Gen. Walters on the upcoming year

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 14:23:16 +0000

Citadel Family:

Greetings and welcome to a new school year at The Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina. It’s an exciting time on campus, and we’re expecting a tremendous year.

Last week, we welcomed more than 800 Cadet Recruits of the Class of 2029, beginning the process of becoming tomorrow’s Principled Leaders. Combined with Upperclassmen returning Sunday, the Corps is larger than since before COVID, and the barracks are full. While this would be something to celebrate any year, it is especially noteworthy in a time when colleges are competing to educate fewer young adults every year. We offer a unique educational opportunity and always attract those who seek a challenge. This year is no exception.

As in years past, the challenge began early — Upperclassmen volunteered to return to campus early to train the knobs. As part of their training, the Commandant’s Office partnered with Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, where Cadre was able to practice their professionalism, teambuilding, and leadership. Fall athletes also returned to campus early to prepare for their seasons. It has been good to have Cadets back on campus these past few weeks.

Leadership starts here. We soon break ground on a home for our sixth school, The Krause School of Leadership and Ethics. The important work done by both the Krause Center and the Department of Leadership Studies will combine under one roof creating the Nation’s pre-eminent school of leadership. We also look forward to Phase II approval from South Carolina leading to construction of a new, state-of-the-art Engineering facility matching the high caliber of our engineering programs and professors. With generous appropriations from the State and our continued philanthropic efforts with The Citadel Foundation, it’s a great time to be an Engineer at The Citadel. As an Electrical Engineering grad, I’m very excited.

Over the summer, the phenomenal team from Facilities and Engineering worked overtime, executing a multitude of campus upgrades and repairs. A second third of Stevens Barracks was completely renovated – the final third will be finished next summer. The F&E team also tackled serious issues with our steam and water systems ensuring livability in the barracks and elsewhere. More work took place in Deas Hall, Mark Clark Hall, and scores of other buildings. More than $13M in projects were completed in the fifteen short weeks between Commencement and Matriculation.

As we settle into the school year, Gail and I eagerly look forward to an exciting year for Citadel Athletics. We are days away from the first football game, where we’ll face the North Dakota State University Bisons. Playing the defending FCS National Champions in the first game of the season is a matchup many schools would avoid, but we’re The Citadel and we chose a more challenging path on purpose. We expect a big crowd from North Dakota on Saturday, and Johnson Hagood Stadium is going to be packed. Soon, we will be able to host even more visitors in Johnson Hagood — after this season, we begin construction on the new East Side Stands and facilities building, allowing 2,000 guests to comfortably watch Bulldog games.

On the academic front, I recently had lunch with new Faculty. What an impressive group of professors coming to The Citadel from all over the world. We are clearly an institution of choice for top academicians, increasing the offerings to our Cadets and Students. The Citadel continues to rank amongst the Best Colleges in America in so many categories, and we always strive to maintain this legacy of excellence.

Remember — whether you’re a Cadet, Student, Faculty, or Staff — you came here for a challenge and to make a difference. The work done at The Citadel, developing Principled Leaders for all walks of life, is immensely important. Leadership starts here because it is built into everything we do.

Welcome back to The Citadel. This year will not always be easy, but it will be worth it. Accept the challenge!

Go Dogs!

GLENN M. WALTERS ‘79
General, USMC (Retired)
President

Citadel dean named to South Carolina Humanities board of directors

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 16:03:32 +0000

South Carolina Humanities, a nonprofit that explores the state’s rich cultural heritage, has named Brian Madison Jones, Ph.D., dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, to its Board of Directors.

SC Humanities is dedicated to increasing public understating of, and support for, the humanities through educational programming and advocacy. Through grants, community partnerships and public programming, SC Humanities encourages dialogue, reflection and understanding across the state.

“I am honored to be appointed to the SC Humanities Board and am excited to explore ways to support all our humanities programming across the state as we foster a broad appreciation of our history, culture and creativity,” said Jones. “I look forward to continuing to serve South Carolina and promoting and celebrating those core values that unite our shared humanity.”

Jones is a historian and leader in higher education with more than 15 years of experience in both administrative and academic roles. As dean of The Citadel’s School of Humanities and Social Sciences, he oversees the launch of innovative educational programs, strengthens community partnerships and advances initiatives while also supporting student success, faculty research and public engagement.

In his role as Board member for SC Humanities, Jones will contribute his expertise in higher education, history and public service to help guide SC Humanities’ various programs and advocacy efforts.

SC Humanities’ programs explore the rich heritage of our state and its links to the cultural traditions of our nation and world and it serves as a coordinator for a wide-ranging number of groups.

SoCon recognizes Annetta, Leonard as all-conference faculty and staff honorees

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 14:44:42 +0000

From The Citadel Athletics

The Southern Conference named its All-Southern Conference Faculty and Staff Team on Tuesday, distinguishing Dr. Len Annetta and Erin Leonard as the faculty and staff representatives, respectively, hailing from The Citadel.

While the selections were left up to each institution’s discretion, the recipients all shared the common characteristics of demonstrated service to the institution and contributions to campus life and the local community. Faculty members selected have demonstrated strong contributions to teaching, research and/or service, while staff members are being recognized for bringing out the best in others and creating conditions for success.

“These outstanding faculty and staff members exemplify the excellence and commitment that define the Southern Conference. Their dedication to mentorship, teaching, leadership and service, their contributions to their institutions, and their positive impact on students and communities make them truly deserving of this recognition,” SoCon Commissioner Michael Cross said. “We are proud to celebrate each of these dedicated individuals who go above and beyond in their roles and help make each SoCon campus a special and exceptional place.”

Annetta and Leonard will be recognized during The Citadel-VMI home men’s basketball game on Thursday, Jan. 29 at McAlister Field House.

The Citadel’s 2025-26 All-Southern Conference Faculty & Staff Honorees

Dr. Len Annetta

Dr. Len Annetta is the Dean of the Zucker Family School of Education and also serves as the Zucker Chair of Entrepreneurial Educational Leadership at The Citadel. Dr. Annetta focused on the untapped analyses of learning science through various distance delivery strategies. In 2008, Dr. Annetta was honored with three awards for his extension work teaching K-12 teachers and students video game design for science and mathematics learning. The awards were progressive; starting with the College of Education Outstanding Extension Service Award to the induction into the NC State University Academy of Outstanding Faculty Engaged in Extension and finally, the Distinguished Alumni Engaged in Extension and Outreach Award. In 2022, Dr. Annetta was the recipient of the Association of Science Teacher Education National Mentor of the Year Award. He is a strong supporter of Citadel Athletics and our student athletes. Dr. Annetta can often be seen at practices and games, engaging with students, supporters, and coaches alike. His consistent presence demonstrates his genuine investment in the student-athletes’ experiences both on and off the field. He makes himself accessible to students outside typical working hours, fostering strong relationships and providing mentorship beyond the classroom environment.

Erin Leonard

Coach Erin Leonard has been an integral part of the Commandant’s Office in her role as the Director of Physical Readiness, working closely with our Strength and Conditioning Coaches as well as the dining facility staff to ensure our student-athletes receive adequate calories and proper nutrition. She coordinates alternate PT tests, height/weight measurements, and consistently accommodates NCAA athletes around their practice schedules—always putting the needs of our cadets first. She leads a group of Athletic Officers and mentors them to improve our Physical Training to all cadets and has improved our physical fitness scores. She also played a major role in planning and implementing PT during athletic and regular cadre. Coach Leonard exemplifies the core values we strive to instill in our cadets here at The Citadel. She not only sets the standard but also actively mentors and guides our cadets—molding them into not only better students but also better citizens. We are proud to recognize her outstanding service and dedication.

Citadel President to retire, culminating a 50-year career in public service

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 21:01:29 +0000

Walters announces retirement in June 2026

The Citadel President Gen. Glenn Walters, USMC (Ret.), ’79, announced today that the spring semester will be his last at The Citadel as he prepares to retire at the end of June 2026. The Citadel Board of Visitors will immediately begin a search for the next Citadel President.

“Serving this institution has been a great honor,” said Walters in a message to the campus community. “We have had the privilege of watching ten extraordinary classes – from 2019 through 2029 – develop into principled leaders for our nation. Being part of their journey is something we will always treasure.”

Walters first came to The Citadel in the fall of 1975. The Arlington, Virginia, native and son of a CIA officer, was a member of Charlie Company. He graduated in 1979 and joined the Marine Corps. He served in positions of increasing responsibility, culminating as the Assistant Commandant of the US Marine Corps. In 2018, The Citadel Board of Visitors selected Walters as the 20th President, succeeding Lt. Gen. John Rosa, USAF (Ret.), ’73.

“Gen. Walters leaves a visible and long-lasting legacy for The Citadel,” said Board of Visitors Chairman Greg Delleney, ’74. “The entire Citadel campus, from north to south, has been significantly improved under his leadership and guidance, and these improvements will pay huge dividends for our academics and our core mission. I want to thank Gail and Glenn for their nearly 50 years of service to The Citadel and our nation and note his remarkable record of success during his eight years as our President.”

Under Walters, The Citadel has undergone significant infrastructure, academic and financial improvement. The college completed construction of Bastin Hall and Capers Hall, repairs to all the barracks, a new roof on McAlister Field House and a new turf at Johnson Hagood Stadium, and has broken ground on construction for the East Side Stands replacement, the Krause School of Leadership and Ethics, and – soon – the LeTellier Hall Engineering Building Replacement. These upcoming projects are fully funded and do not add debt to the college.

Among the greatest challenges of Walters’ tenure was the 2020 COVID-19 outbreak. While many colleges and universities struggled, The Citadel persevered. After sending students home in the spring of 2020, The Citadel returned to in-person classes in the fall and did not fire or furlough employees. This past Matriculation Day, The Citadel’s class size fully rebounded to pre-COVID levels. All of this was done while also balancing the college’s budget for the first time in many years.

Academically the college has excelled even more. During his time as president, The Citadel’s rankings have continued to climb and is now recognized as the #1 Regional University in the South. The college’s Engineering program – of which he is a proud graduate – is currently a top 15 program nationally. During Walters’ tenure, The Citadel had its first Rhodes Scholar finalist this past year and continues to attract top faculty and excellent students. The college has also embarked under Walters on a record-setting Our Mighty Citadel fundraising campaign that has already seen the school raise $310 million – exceeding its goal of $300 million – with a full year left.

You can read Gen. Walters’ full retirement message to The Citadel Community here.

The Citadel’s Board of Visitors has established a search committee to begin vetting and selecting candidates to serve as The Citadel’s 21st president.

The Citadel recognized as Top 10 Military Friendly employer for 2026

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 19:36:47 +0000

The connections between The Citadel and veterans are strong, and they are a large reason why The Citadel has been recognized as the No. 9 Military Friendly Employer among other government and nonprofit organizations.

Veterans are a key component of The Citadel — much of the college’s leadership, as well as many on the faculty and staff, have served in the different branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. Many of the employees who guide and educate cadets are also retired from the military, directly transferring their knowledge and experience to the next generation of military leaders.

“Being consistently recognized as a Top Ten Military Friendly Employer is a distinction that highlights our culture of leadership and service at The Citadel,” said Leah Schonfeld, Chief Human Resources Officer for The Citadel. “Our veterans make our campus better, and we are proud to be a workplace where veterans can thrive and feel at home alongside other retired service members.”

The Citadel actively recruits and engages all military members, veterans and their families; for more information on career opportunities, current openings are listed at this link.

“Earning the Military Friendly® designation is more than a badge; it’s a reflection of deep-rooted values and strategic foresight,” said Kayla Lopez, vice president of memberships for Military Friendly. “These organizations don’t just open doors for veterans, spouses and service members; they build pathways for lasting impact. Their commitment isn’t performative; it’s transformative. It’s proof that honoring military talent is not only the right thing to do, it’s the smart thing to do.”

Institutions earning the Military Friendly® Employers designation were evaluated using both public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey. Over 1,200 companies participated in the Military Friendly survey.

The Citadel will be showcased in the 2026 Military Friendly ® Employers Guide in the Winter issue of G.I. Jobs ® magazine and on MilitaryFriendly.com.

About Military Friendly

Military Friendly® is the standard that measures an organization’s commitment, effort, and success in creating sustainable and meaningful benefits for the military community. Over 2,900 organizations compete annually for Military Friendly® designation annually. Military Friendly®, a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business. Military Friendly® is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Department of Defense or the federal government. Results are produced via a rules-based algorithm. The data-driven Military Friendly® lists and methodology can be found at this link.

Citadel professor to serve as next Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Defense

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 13:39:27 +0000

After years of teaching law to the next generation of principled leaders, Citadel professor Platte Moring has been confirmed by the U.S. Senate as the next Inspector General for the Department of Defense.

In his new role, Moring will oversee accountability and integrity across the nation’s largest federal agency.

Moring was confirmed on Thursday, Dec. 18, after his nomination was received by the Senate in June of the same year.

When Moring testified before the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee in September, some of his then-current students were in the audience alongside three graduates who were involved with Inn of Court, The Citadel’s pre-law society, while they were cadets.

“My approach to fulfilling the Inspector General’s mission of promoting economy, efficiency and effectiveness in the Department will be to painstakingly pursue the facts of each matter with the intent of achieving justice and accountability,” Moring said.

A distinguished legal and military professional, Moring brings a wealth of experience to the position. He is a retired Lieutenant Colonel from the Pennsylvania Army National Guard and a recipient of the Bronze Star. Prior to joining The Citadel in 2021, he served in various roles across the Executive Branch, Judicial Branch, private law, the military and higher education. In fact, the primary focus of his legal work in private practice and at the Department of Justice was the investigation and prosecution of fraud.

“Lt. Col. Moring’s nomination to the office of Inspector General overseeing the Pentagon is a high honor,” said Cadet Noah Miller, Regimental Academic Officer and one of the cadets who attending his hearing. “I personally witnessed his commitment to teaching, encouraging and showing cadets hands-on leadership experiences. Lt. Col. Moring has been a great asset to The Citadel, and we are better for having him at our institution as he models exemplary leadership in service to our nation.”

At The Citadel, Moring has taught political science while continuing to guide cadets through issues of law, governance and national security as well as serving as faculty advisor to The Citadel Inn of Court. Moring also served as the coach for The Citadel Mock Trial team.

“The motto of The Citadel is ‘honor, duty and respect,'” said Moring. “I will continue to uphold these core values as the Inspector General,” said Moring.

Why we serve: Chief Peña on life, leadership and legacy

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 13:41:59 +0000

Photo: Chief Peña addressing Airmen and Marines at the South Korea Combined SEL Conference, August 2017

This article was originally written for Dr. Lauren Rule Maxwell’s Honors Advanced Writing Course.

By William Mosley, ’27

Chief Master Sergeant (Ret.) Victor A. Peña doesn’t measure leadership by rank, ribbons or medals, but instead by the people he shaped and impacted in over 30 years in the U.S. Air Force’s Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) program. For him, success was never the goal – significance was.

“You’ve already been successful,” he says. “Now choose to be significant.”

Chief Peña embodies this at The Citadel, where he serves as the only enlisted TAC Officer, carrying forward a lifetime of leadership and lessons forged in the heat of combat and the brotherhood of service. His mentoring extends beyond just advising, to forging future leaders, the very men and women this country needs.

Born and raised in Long Branch, New Jersey, Chief Peña didn’t plan on joining the Air Force, “until I got into a fight with my Puerto Rican dad – and that’s someone you don’t get into a fight with.”

When his father cut off his college tuition payments, he was forced to make a decision and chose to enlist. While the recruiter promised quick service and a return home to New Jersey, he quickly found himself under the sweltering heat of Hurlburt Field, Florida, fighting to earn the title of TACP, one of the Air Force’s elite ground operators tasked with coordinating air support in combat zones.

“From New Jersey to Texas – where I think the devil has a home,” he jokes. “I’ve never been that hot in my life, except in the desert.”

Over the next three decades, he would serve across the globe in operations including Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom and New Dawn. Chief Peña rose quickly through the ranks, culminating as the Squadron Superintendent for the 15th Air Support Operations Squadron at Fort Stewart, Georgia, where he learned that true leaders don’t focus on control, but rather care for their soldiers.

Before 9/11, Chief Peña recalls the military being incredibly competitive and career-driven, a place where schools, training and badges set you apart for promotion and success. After the attacks, however, everything changed.

“We weren’t after vengeance,” he says. “We were after a reckoning.”

Such a distinction became the defining characteristic for an entire generation. “9/11 made it about us – not me, but we. It galvanized us all, making America one team again. That’s something we forget sometimes, being so busy with the hyphens – Puerto Rican-American, Irish-American. Why not just American?”

Such a unity is what Chief Peña believes makes the military an unparalleled organization.

“In service, if you dropped a grenade in a room,” he says, choking with emotion, “everyone would jump on it for you. That’s what you miss.”

Chief Peña’s combat experience honed his focus on what truly mattered: “The color of the drapes in the meeting room doesn’t matter anymore; the only thing that matters is that your people are trained, taken care of and understand the mission at hand.”

Leading by example and embodying the standard, he made sure his gear was always ready, radios pristine and vehicles spotless. Advancing into leadership positions, however, his focus shifted outward to his men, “When you’re young, you care if your boots are shined. But when you’re a leader, you care if your team’s boots are shined.” He says, “It’s no longer about you – it’s about them.”

Every leader must understand their “why,” in a lesson Chief Peña breaks down into three critical pillars: who hurt you, who helped you and who healed you.

“The first ‘why’ is who hurt you – because that changes you,” Chief explained, “The second is who helped you – the people who taught you, lifted you up and helped you. The third is who healed you – for me, that’s Christ. But for others, it might be something else. You just have to find it.”

Such a deep spiritual grounding helped him through dark times while deployed, but also against the fight he brought back home.

“I used to wake up reaching for my body armor, helmet and gun,” he admitted. “So, I put my dog’s bed next to mine. When I’d wake up, I’d see him there – warm, breathing – and I’d know I was home.”

He still catches himself changing lanes under overpasses – a reflex from driving in combat convoys to avoid the dropping of IEDS (Improvised Explosive Devices) from above.

“That’s when you have to stop and ask yourself, ‘Where are you? Slow down.’”

For Chief Peña, healing comes through thanksgiving and gratitude.

“Man, I’m no hero, although I walk with some,” he says quietly. “I’m blessed in life – so blessed – because some of our brothers aren’t.”

Chief Peña utilizes a leadership style he calls bold leadership.

“The Air Force uses the term ‘intrusive leadership.’ But ‘intrusive’ means I don’t have a relationship with you. ‘Bold’ means I do – and I care enough to call you out when something’s going to derail your life.”

He laughs, recalling how younger airmen in his unit would buy fast motorcycles or corvettes after deployments, chasing the adrenaline of jumping out of helicopters with rounds flying overhead.

“I’d ask them: ‘How fast are you riding that thing – and why?’” Coupled with a pause, it really sinks in. “You can enjoy life, but you have to have people around you who will grab you and check you when you’re being reckless. That’s leadership.”

After more than 30 years of service and making the decision to retire, Chief Peña knew exactly who he was – and who he wasn’t.

“Some folks can’t let go of the rank,” he says. “They still have to be called Chief. I get it. But my wife made sure I remembered – I wasn’t a Chief at home.” Transitioning into the civilian world, he found purpose and a way to impact new generations at The Citadel, serving as a TAC Officer for Victor Company. “I chose here to be significant,” he says. “I’ve made six chiefs in the Air Force, and I’m still making leaders here every day.”

He’s proud of the legacy being built here – mentoring future officers with the very pillars of directness, compassion, and wisdom that defined his military career and exceptional leadership.

“Advising the next generation of leaders,” he says, quoting The Citadel’s motto. “It’s a great line. But I’m not here to advise you. I’m here to forge you. Forging means heat, pressure, and hammering – that’s how you make steel.” To sum up his leadership philosophy, Chief Peña broke it down into five crucial phases: compassion, character, commitment, communication and charisma.

“The first two – compassion and character – are the true foundation,” he explained. “If you have those, you can lead anywhere, in business, the military, and in life, because it’s all the same. Real leadership is built on caring and doing what’s right.” The other three, he says, come naturally when the foundation is strong. “Commitment means showing up. Communication means saying what needs to be said. And charisma – well, I think I’ve got that one,” he says with a chuckle. “The guys say I’ve got this whole ‘rizz’ thing down.”

Chief Peña’s impact isn’t measured in accolades or awards, but in people – the soldiers he’s mentored, cadets he’s guided and the lives he’s touched.

“To this day, I have colonels who send me bourbon at Christmas,” he says with a smile. “That’s legacy. That’s significant.” When asked what his hope is for cadets, his answer is simple: success with meaning. “I want to look up 10 years from now, smoking a good cigar, drinking good bourbon and probably playing some bad golf, to see your name on TV for doing something great,” he says. “If you mention me, that’s a bonus, but what really matters is that you’re successful – that you’re better.”

At The Citadel, Chief Peña doesn’t just see students, but instead, the future – forged by discipline, faith and fire.

“Leadership,” he says, “is about compassion and character. If you get those right, everything else will follow.”

Cadet William Mosley is the Regimental Provost Marshal NCO for the South Carolina Corps of Cadets, from San Antonio, Texas, with a double major in Political Science and Intelligence and Security Studies. Additionally, Mosley is a member of The Citadel’s Distinguished Scholar Program and has a four-year Army ROTC scholarship. Upon graduating, he intends to commission into the U.S. Army as a 2nd Lieutenant and Armor Officer.

Steve Giove named Director of Bands at The Citadel

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 19:05:38 +0000

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Steve Giove, USMC (Ret.), has been announced as the new Director of Bands at The Citadel.

Giove, a native of Hollywood, Florida, attended Berklee College of Music receiving a Bachelor Degree in Music Performance in 1987. After working as a freelance drummer in the Boston area for a couple of years, he joined the Marine Corps in July of 1989.

After boot camp at Parris Island, South Carolina, and Marine Combat Training at Camp Lejeune, Jacksonville, North Carolina, he attended and graduated from the Basic Music Course at the Navy School of Music at Norfolk, Virginia, in June 1990.

Giove’s first assignment was the Quantico Marine Band, based in Quantico, Virginia, from June 1990 to April 1993.

As a corporal, his second assignment was as an instructor at the Naval School of Music from April 1993 to February 1997. Giove graduated from the Enlisted Band Leader course and the sergeants’ course during this time.

Thirdly, Giove held the positions of platoon sergeant and Junior Enlisted Conductor with the Second Marine Division Band at Camp Lejeune, Jacksonville, North Carolina, from February 1997 to August 1999. At this time, Sergeant Giove was Honorably Discharged from the Marine Corps.

After his Honorable Discharge he attended the University of Mississippi where he received a Masters of Music in December 2000, becoming a teacher for the School Board of Broward County, Florida.

Giove reenlisted in the Marine Corps February of 2003 and was assigned to the Parris Island Marine Band. Being promoted to staff sergeant, he served as the Small Ensemble Leader, arranger, percussionist and Enlisted Conductor. After Recruiter’s School in San Diego, California, in April 2004, Giove transferred in June of 2004.

From June 2004 to January 2007, Giove served as the Musician Technical Assistant (musician recruiter) for the Sixth Marine Corps District Recruiting Command, Parris Island, South Carolina. During this period, and on his off time, he was the conductor for the Charleston Community Band and percussionist for the Beaufort Symphony.

After graduating from the Warrant Officer Basic Course in May of 2007, he was assigned as the Officer in Charge of the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Band while in Twentynine Palms, California, from June 2007 to June 2010. His next assignment, from June 2010 to July 2013, was as the Officer in Charge of the III Marine Expeditionary Force Band in Okinawa, Japan, where the title Marine Corps Band of the Year 2012 was achieved. He also was the conductor for the Okinawa Wind Symphony, a community band in which he started for active-duty members, DoD dependents and employees, and Japanese nationals. From July 2013 to July 2016, Giove was assigned as the Officer in Charge of the Parris Island Marine Band at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot and Co-Director and Founder of the Lowcountry Wind Symphony.

Giove retired after 25 years of service from the Marine Corps and served as the Director of Bands at Riverside Military Academy and Johnson High School in Gainesville, Georgia, an Educational/Artist Endorser for the Avedis Zildjian Company, freelance artist and conductor, drummer for the Carrollton Jazz Orchestra, Associate Conductor for the Northwinds Symphonic Band, and an Adjunct Professor of Applied Percussion at Brenua University.

He has performed for millions of people in the U.S. and overseas. He has composed and arranged music for the concert band, field band, jazz band, jazz combo and brass quintet. In addition, he has been a guest performer/conductor for bands in the U.S. and the Far East, and the Director for the Marine Corps All Star Jazz Band. His personal awards include the Meritorious Service Medal (Gold Star in lieu of the Third Award), the Navy-Marine Corps Commendation Medal, the Navy-Marine Corps Achievement Medal, fourth award and the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, fourth award. He is married to a former Marine musician Erin Giove, with three sons, all Marines, Trevor, Stephen and Blaise.

Photos from campus: January in review

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 19:35:23 +0000

January, and the start of the spring semester at The Citadel, was focused on service, training and performance. The month included the Gold Star parade, the training of the next class of Summerall Guards, and athletic showdowns with different rivals. Campus life also included a blood drive and the opening of a new art exhibition in the Winfred B. Moore, Jr. Art Gallery in Capers Hall.

Here are some of the sights around campus since the Corps of Cadets returned on Jan. 11.

Three cadets prepare for a group photo of the ’26 Summerall Guards on Jan. 20

Citadel cadets donate blood in Mark Clark Hall on Jan. 21

Citadel cadets, some dressed in uniforms from World War II, and guests attend the opening of the Moore Art Gallery’s new exhibition “All Hands on Deck” on Jan. 22

Citadel Bulldogs basketball beats Furman on Jan. 22

The Citadel Bulldogs wrestling team wins against Presbyterian College on Jan. 22

Citadel cadets are recognized for earning gold stars or a place on the President’s List at parade on Jan. 23

Cadets training to earn their spot in the 2027 Summerall Guards compete in the 61 Minute Man drill on Jan. 28

The Citadel Bulldogs basketball team defeats rival VMI on Jan. 29

The Citadel’s presidential search committee announces four finalists

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 18:13:19 +0000

The Citadel’s presidential search committee has announced the four finalists to become the college’s 21^st president.

The four finalists are, in alphabetical order:

Lt. Gen. E. Miles Brown, USA, ‘95;
Lt. Gen. Thomas S. James Jr., USA (Ret.), ‘85;
Gen. Kenneth F. “Frank” McKenzie Jr., USMC (Ret.), ‘79; and
Maj. Gen. John H. Phillips, USA, ‘90

“We are excited by the selection of these four highly qualified finalists,” said Col. F. G. “Greg” Delleney, ’74, chairman of the Board of Visitors. “The overwhelming number of interested applicants and the exceptional quality of candidates seeking to lead The Citadel are evidence of the college’s status as an elite institution. Each of these candidates, who have distinguished themselves in their professional careers, would be an exceptional leader of The Citadel.”

Lt. Gen. E. Miles Brown, USA, ‘95, is currently the Acting Deputy Commanding General of United States Army Transformation and Training Command. He was previously the Deputy Commanding General, U.S. Army Futures Command and the Commanding General, Combat Capabilities Development Command, U.S. Army Futures Command. He has a B.A. in History from The Citadel, and an M.S. in Administration from Central Michigan University and an M.S. in National Security and Strategic Studies from the National Defense University.

Lt. Gen. Thomas S. James Jr., USA (Ret.), ’85, previously served as the Commanding General, First United States Army. Prior to that he served as the Director of Operations, United Nations Command/Combined Forces Command/United States Forces Korea and was the Commanding General of the 7^th Infantry Division at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. He has a B.S. in Business Administration from The Citadel, an M.M.A.S in Advanced Military studies from the Army Command and General Staff College and an M.S. in National Security and Strategic Studies from the National Defense University.

Gen. F. “Frank” McKenzie Jr., USMC (Ret.), ‘79, is currently the executive director of the Global and National Security Institute at the University of South Florida. Previously, he served as the Commander, United States Central Command and as the Director of the Joint Staff at the Pentagon. He also served as the Director for Strategy, Plans, and Policy on the Joint Staff and was the Commander, U.S. Marine Forces, U.S. Central Command. He has a B.A. in English from The Citadel and an M.A.T. with a concentration in History from The Citadel.

Maj. Gen. John H. Phillips, USA, ’90, is currently the Director of Communications and Cyber Operations (J6), at the United States European Command in Stuttgart, Germany. He was previously Director of IT Planning, Programming, Budgeting and Execution at Headquarters, US Army. He has a B.S. in electrical engineering from The Citadel and an M.S. in Strategic Studies from the Army War College.

After reviewing scores of applications and meeting with a short-list of candidates this past week, the presidential search committee announced the selections ahead of a final round of interviews. The final four candidates will return to The Citadel’s campus in the coming weeks for additional interviews as well as meetings with cadets, students, faculty and staff. The timing of these interviews has not been determined.

The 13-member presidential search committee – led by BOV member, and former board chairman, Dylan Goff, ’02 – narrowed the search down to the final four candidates. The next president will be selected from that group and voted on by the full BOV.

“I am eager for The Citadel community to get to know our finalists as we continue this important process,” said search committee Chairman Goff. “I would like to thank the search committee members for their enormous time commitment and dedication to The Citadel as they helped narrow a wide and impressive pool of candidates to find the next leader for the college.”

The 21^st president will succeed Gen. Glenn M. Walters, USMC (Ret.), ’79, who has led The Citadel since 2018. After nearly 50 years in uniform and eight years running his alma mater, Walters announced his retirement plans in December and will step down on June 30, 2026.

Photos from campus: February in review

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 15:57:20 +0000

February brought intensity and focus to The Citadel. With Field Training Exercises, Freshman Leadership Training, Summerall Guards selections, basketball matchups, and demanding academics, cadets embraced a month built on preparation and progress.

Here are some of the sights around campus during the month of February.

Digital-use downloads are now available through The Citadel’s photo store. Prints may also be purchased in the store. To browse The Citadel’s collection of photographs, click here.

The TACs take on the cadets during a Citadel basketball game.

Citadel Basketball Head Coach Ed Conroy and his team on their feet in the final moments of their game against Samford.

Cadet members of the Army ROTC prepare to move out to Ft. Jackson for their annual Field Training Exercise.

Bond Volunteer Aspirants undergo their “Final Cuts”.

Members of the Bulldogs Track and Field team at practice.

Citadel cadets take part in a retreat parade.

Citadel knobs participate in the Freshman Leadership Training Exercise (LTX).

Construction workers work on the renovation of the Krause School of Leadership and Ethics.

Dr. Zardus explains the abundance of spore on a mushroom sample to his Biology students.

Citadel cadets practice nursing skills in the nursing lab.

Citadel provost Sally Selden to serve as University of Lynchburg’s 12th president

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 19:54:04 +0000

Sally Selden, Ph.D., The Citadel provost and dean of the college, will become the University of Lynchburg’s 12th president. Selden came to The Citadel in 2019 to serve as the second-ranking official of the college.

As the college’s chief academic officer and second ranking official, she led strategic planning for the college’s academic mission and ensured academic programs are world-class and aligned with the college’s core values. Selden’s responsibilities included leading academic programs and initiatives across the college’s five schools, which serve more than 3,500 students and support more than 200 faculty. In addition, Selden oversaw the Daniel Library, the Krause Center for Leadership and Ethics, research centers, information technology and academic support units.

“Since joining the Military College of South Carolina in 2019, Dr. Selden has done an exceptional job leading the strategic planning for our academic mission while elevating our programs and ensuring alignment with our core values. During her tenure, The Citadel launched its sixth academic school — the Krause School of Leadership and Ethics — and achieved a perfect score in our SACSCOC reaccreditation. The college has also continued to earn top rankings from U.S. News & World Report, most recently being named the overall #1 Regional University in the South for the second consecutive year. There are many highlights from her tenure — far too many to list. I cannot thank Dr. Selden enough for the time and dedication she poured into The Citadel, and we wish her the best in her future endeavors,” said The Citadel President Gen. Glenn Walters, USMC (Ret.), ’79.

The University of Lynchburg, similar to The Citadel, has a student body population of approximately 2,500 students and offers more than 120 programs.

“It has been an honor to serve The Citadel for the past seven years as Provost. Serving the faculty, staff, cadets, and students of The Citadel has been one of the great privileges of my professional life. I am proud of the progress we have made together in strengthening and elevating academic programs, expanding opportunities for cadets and students, increasing support and recognition of faculty, and advancing the mission of the college. While I am excited about this new chapter, leaving The Citadel is not easy. I will always be grateful for the opportunity to have served with such a remarkable group of faculty, staff, and academic leaders.”

Previously, Selden spent 18 years at the University of Lynchburg where she served as provost, associate provost, director of the MBA program, department chair of management, director of the Masters in Nonprofit Leadership, faculty chair (elected)and professor of management.

Selden will assume her presidential duties at the University of Lynchburg in 2026. In the meantime, a transition plan is being developed to ensure the continued success of academic affairs at The Citadel.

Gen. Frank McKenzie selected as 21st president of The Citadel

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:14:55 +0000

The Citadel Board of Visitors announced today that they have selected Gen. Frank McKenzie, USMC (Ret.), ’79, to serve as the 21^st president of The Citadel.

Gen. McKenzie, one of the four finalists selected by the presidential search committee earlier this spring, is currently serving as the Executive Director of the University of South Florida’s Global and National Security Institute and the Executive Director of the Florida Center for Cybersecurity, also known as Cyber Florida.

“The Citadel is incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to bring Gen. McKenzie back to campus as the 21^st President,” said Greg Delleney, ’74, chairman of the BOV. “We had an outstanding pool of candidates and an exceptionally strong shortlist of finalists making this decision extremely difficult. Having Gen. McKenzie, with his experience as a theater commander and an academic institution leader, agree to lead The Citadel is a reflection of the outstanding institution we currently have and our bright future.”

“I am honored and humbled to come home to The Citadel,” said McKenzie. “This is where it all began for me. I look forward to giving back some of the things that were given to me during my time as a cadet. Marilyn and I are excited and energized about the opportunities ahead.”

McKenzie also said, “I would also like to take a moment to recognize the remarkable things that my classmate and friend, Gen. Glenn Walters, has done for our college. He and Gail have given it their all. I also want to thank the Board of Visitors for their faith in me. It will not be misplaced. We’re excited about getting to work!”

The BOV voted on the morning of Saturday, March 21, just as the college marked its 183^rd birthday with the annual Corps Day celebrations. The vote for McKenzie was unanimous.

A career infantry officer, McKenzie was commissioned through the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps program at The Citadel, where he majored in English. Over more than four decades of service, he held a wide range of command and staff positions, including serving as Commander of Marine Forces Central Command and Director of the Joint Staff. His final military position was as the Commander, United States Central Command where he was responsible for all US military operations in a vast area of the world covering the Middle East and South Asia.

McKenzie holds an advanced degree from The Citadel Graduate College and is a graduate of the Marine Corps Command and Staff College as well as the School of Advanced Warfighting. He was a Commandant of the Marine Corps Fellow at the National Defense University.

Since retiring from active duty, McKenzie became the Executive Director of the University of South Florida’s Global and National Security Institute in May 2022. In July 2022, he also became the Executive Director of the Florida Center for Cybersecurity, also known as Cyber Florida.

The current president of The Citadel, Gen. Glenn M. Walters, USMC (Ret.), ’79, will retire at the end of June 2026. He announced his retirement in December of last year, following nearly 50 years of service to his country and his alma mater. Under General Walters’s leadership, The Citadel has undergone significant infrastructure, academic and financial improvements. McKenzie will inherit a high-performing institution that is ranked as the #1 Regional University in the South by U.S. News & World Report.

The new President is scheduled to begin his tenure at The Citadel on July 1, 2026.

Photos from campus: March in review

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 18:17:00 +0000

March at The Citadel passed in a blur, marked by momentum, tradition and anticipation. The month was filled with major announcements shaping the year ahead, alongside cornerstone events like Recognition Day and Corps Day that celebrated the strength and legacy of the Corps of Cadets. Between the excitement of baseball games and early preparations for the upcoming football season, campus life remained as dynamic as ever.

Here are some of the sights around campus during the month of March.

Digital-use downloads are now available through The Citadel’s photo store. Prints may also be purchased in the store. To browse The Citadel’s collection of photographs, click here.

Citadel cadets celebrate after the Commandant announces the cadet leadership for the upcoming school year on March 5

The Citadel Bulldogs football team goes through spring training on Summerall Field on March 5

Citadel cadets compete in a hot dog eating contest at The Citadel Bullldogs baseball game against Clemson on March 18

The Citadel Bullldogs baseball take on Clemson on March 18

Citadel cadets perform an experiment during their chemistry lab on March 18

Citadel cadets take part in the last morning PT before Recognition Day on March 19

The Citadel celebrates Corps Day with a Jeep Review parade, open barracks and more on March 21

Citadel cadets during the iconic March to Marion Square on March 21

The Citadel Bulldogs baseball team takes on Presbyterian on March 25

A Navy Seahawk helicopter lands on Summerall Field on March 25

The top Citadel ROTC cadets attend a ceremony to accept their awards on March 26

Citadel cadets take part in a retreat parade on March 27

Citadel cadets listen to an address on leadership by USMC Vietnam veteran and author Karl Marlantes on March 31

The Citadel’s crew team practices on the Ashley River on March 31

Citadel cadets play intramural baseball on Summerall Field on March 31

The Citadel honors its Team of the Year and Employee of the Year

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 16:52:17 +0000

Each year, The Citadel recognizes one team and one employee for their outstanding efforts and performance that goes above and beyond.

For the 2025-26 academic year, The Citadel recognized the Machine Shop as the 2026 Team of the Year and Angie Rochester, The Citadel’s Employment Manager, as the Employee of the Year.

Service and quality of work in performing “beyond the call of duty”
Impact of professionalism and dedication to excellence
Initiative and reliability beyond required assignments and expectations
Uniqueness of contributions

Here’s what set these employees apart:

Angie Rochester, 2026 Employee of the Year

Her nomination letter reads in part:

Angie has been a valued employee of The Citadel for over 18 years. Her dedication and love of this community is highlighted by a deep understanding of the needs of our departments and schools when it comes to employment. She is a daughter of The Citadel, with her father graduating with the Class of 1973. Angie herself received a graduate degree in Leadership Studies through The Citadel Graduate College in 2016. This background gives Angie a unique perspective of the role of recruiter for The Citadel. In her position, she views everything she does as an opportunity to advance the mission of the college and support the employees who make this a great institution. Angie is the definition of “serving others before herself.” She is patient, caring, and kind while always looking out for the best interest of our workforce. She truly embodies the values of honor, duty, and respect, and continually reflects those same values to our community.

In addition to cultivating a solid talent pipeline, Angie understands the importance of connecting with and supporting others. She is a champion of campus engagement – she coordinates the Faculty-Staff Tailgate, Breakfast with Santa, serves as a Mentor, and is the President-Elect of the South Carolina Human Resources Board. The passion she displays is extraordinary, which represents what we hope The Citadel’s core values instill within each of us. She is an asset; dependable and self-motivated in all that she does to ensure that the needs of the HR office and The Citadel are met. The Citadel is lucky to have her talents, energy, passion and overall professionalism.

The Machine Shop, 2026 Team of the Year

Members of the team include:

Matt Ramsey
David Worrel
Randy Boyd
John Allegood

Their nomination letter reads in part:

The Machine shop completed multiple high visibility projects around campus this year including lift station pumps, domestic water control stations, steam condensate pumps and much more, which has improved the drinking water, the sewage system and the heating system campus wide. They work tirelessly everyday around campus with only three full time staff including the supervisor. They take care of all the steam lines, all the restroom facilities and lift stations around campus. The Marine Shop is called daily for numerous emergencies and dropping whatever project they are working on, to make sure the emergency is taken care of.

The impact the Machine Shop has on The Citadel daily life is something that we may take for granted every time we use a restroom facility or a water fountain around the campus. Their hard work can be seen every day by every person who works, studies or visits this campus. This Team is comprised of three full time and one part time staff member. It is amazing how well they keep all our facilities running as efficiently and effectively as they have. At every home Citadel Football and Basketball game, they provide a staff member to ensure our facilities are working properly. They are on call every other week for evening and weekend emergencies.

In the last year, the Machine Shop Section has taken over the responsibility of the steam system on campus. That system used to mostly be worked on by outside contractors. This, in of itself, has been a huge savings for The Citadel. They are taking care of repair and replacement of all the steam condensation pumps and systems. Every member of the Machine Shop Section works extremely hard to keep this campus flowing (literally).

Photos from campus: April in review

Tue, 05 May 2026 20:01:57 +0000

April at The Citadel flew by while the Corps of Cadets kept a steady rhythm of discipline, discovery and community. The month brought unique learning opportunities — from marine biology fieldwork on the water to human anatomy in the classroom — alongside parades, performances and moments of camaraderie that define life on campus. Whether honoring distinguished guests, competing in the boxing ring or watching the Blue Angels fly overhead, these snapshots capture the breadth of cadet life as spring unfolds at The Citadel.

Here are some of the sights around campus during the month of April.

Digital-use downloads are now available through The Citadel’s photo store. Prints may also be purchased in the store. To browse The Citadel’s collection of photographs, click here.

A Citadel cadet learns about human anatomy from The Citadel’s Anatomage table on April 1

A Citadel cadet runs in Hampton Park on April 1

Citadel cadets do field research on board a Dept. of Natural Resources vessel as part of Dr. Clinton Moran’s marine biology class on April 2

Citadel cadets perform alongside the USMC’s Parris Island Band on April 6

Citadel cadets relax and play intramural sports on Summerall Field on April 8

Citadel cadets take part in a parade honoring The Citadel’s Employee of the Year, Angie Rochester, and Team of the Year, the machine shop, on April 10

Citadel cadets wait to be inspected in their full dress salt and pepper uniforms on April 10

Cadet Jake Willis on a 50-mile run to raise money for the mental health ministries provided by Summerall Chapel on April 14

Cadets from 2nd Battalion enjoy a break from studies during an evening BBQ on April 14

A Citadel cadet walks across Summerall field at sunset on April 14

Citadel cadets take part in a retreat parade honoring the Taiwanese ambassador to the U.S., Alexander Yiu, on April 17

Citadel cadets who are training to be drill masters practice their moves on April 17

Citadel cadets train in preparation to serve as their company’s guidon bearers on April 22

Three Army helicopters land on Summerall Field as part of an event hosted by the Palmetto Battalion on April 23

The Citadel Boxing Club hosted the Clash of the Corps boxing match between The Citadel and VMI on April 25

The US Navy’s Blue Angels flight demonstration squad flew over The Citadel campus on April 30