The 208th U.S. Army Band Brass Quintet’s festive and rousing performance set the tone for the Vanderbilt University’s annual Joint Commissioning Ceremony on Friday, May 10, where a standing room only crowd of more than 400 gathered to honor 35 ROTC cadets and midshipmen commissioned into the U.S. Army, Navy and Marine Corps.
Vice Adm. Nora Tyson, vice chair of Vanderbilt’s Board of Trust and retired vice admiral in the U.S. Navy, served as the keynote speaker. Tyson congratulated the graduates and conveyed the gravity of the ceremony, saying: “Your dedication over the past four years demonstrated the mental, moral and physical determination necessary for success, not just in the military, but in life itself. In our great nation, you are given the opportunity to be whatever you want and to follow your dreams—and you have chosen one of the most honorable professions, serving in the United States military.”
Chancellor Daniel Diermeier and Provost C. Cybele Raver also addressed the audience. Raver emphasized the graduates’ embodiment of Vanderbilt’s values; i.e., “the diversity, leadership and innovative spirit that will undoubtedly contribute significantly to their branches and the broader military community.” Raver added, “These candidates are not just future leaders; they are pioneers, innovators, artists and scholars ready to contribute their vast array of talents to the military and beyond.”
The diverse commissioning class included 18 new Army officers, three new Marine Corps officers and 14 new Navy officers from not only Vanderbilt, but also Tennessee State, Belmont, Lipscomb and Trevecca, making it an inclusive and collaborative event that celebrated programs and graduates from five universities.
Some key highlights about the Class of 2024:
- 30 percent are first-generation military members, pioneering new family legacies in the armed forces
- 62 percent are first-generation officers, marking a momentous step in leadership within their families
- 14 percent are trailblazing first-generation college students, showcasing the military’s role in broadening educational horizons
- 31 percent received their new rank insignia from currently serving or retired military members, demonstrating their families’ long-standing commitment to service to the nation
Beyond their service, the graduates also showcased exceptional academic and technical achievements, with two midshipmen of four nationwide who were selected as Navy Cyber Warfare Engineers, several participating in the Department of Defense’s Project GO overseas language and cultural training program, and many receiving Dean’s List honors.
The ceremony was further elevated by Midshipman Mykayla Couchenour’s stunning rendition of the national anthem.
Vanderbilt’s Joint Commissioning Ceremony was a proud moment for the university, the ROTC programs, and the families and friends of the newly commissioned officers. The Class of 2024 exemplifies the institution’s commitment to developing the next generation of diverse and accomplished leaders in the U.S. military.
