Valley Forge Military College, the Military College of Pennsylvania™, has graduated its 84th class of cadets.

Thirty-three cadets received Associate’s degrees and will matriculate to other colleges and universities to complete their Bachelor’s degrees.

Michael O’Dea, the salutatorian, earned the distinction of ranking second academically in his class. Graduating with an Associate of Arts in Humanities, Magna Cum Laude, O’Dea will complete his Bachelor’s Degree at the University of Arkansas.

Rebecca Owens King, the valedictorian, earned the highest grade point average among her class. King graduates with an Associate of Science in Engineering and Physical Sciences, Magna Cum Laude, and will complete her Bachelor’s Degree at Syracuse University.

“Academic achievement at this level is especially significant due to cadets spending significant time completing ROTC training and fulfilling leadership responsibilities required of the Corps of Cadets,” said Robert F. Smith, Ph.D., MEd, Provost, Valley Forge Military College. “Academic excellence is coupled with physical development, personal motivation, character development, and leadership skills – the Five Cornerstones of a VFMC education.”

Thirty-one graduates have completed the Early Commissioning Program (ECP) and are commissioned as 2nd lieutenants in the US Army. The ECP enables the Cadets to commission a full two years ahead of other ROTC programs.

 “These cadets are committed to their education and to our country,” said Lieutenant Colonel Joshua A. Meyer, US Army, professor of Military Science at VFMC. “As they commission, they will assume leadership positions in the National Guard or Army Reserves while completing their degrees. Fourteen of our new officers will compete for active duty service in the next two years.”

As part of the commencement ceremony, The Order of Anthony Wayne was awarded to two graduates: Cadets Priscilla Cruz and Connor Starowesky.

Cadet Cruz has earned her Associate of Arts in Security Studies with a Certificate in Cybersecurity.

Cadet Starowesky has earned an Associate of Arts in Humanities. Both will attend Syracuse University to complete their Bachelor’s degrees.

The Order of Anthony Wayne is the highest honor presented by VFMAC to those who demonstrate exceptional service to the institution, its cadets, and its operations.

The mission of Valley Forge Military Academy & College is to develop individuals to be fully prepared for the responsibilities of being citizen leaders by producing graduates who are strong in mind, body, and soul.

Valley Forge Military College is a private two-year college committed to equipping young men and women to boldly face the challenges of life. It is the Military College of Pennsylvania.™

Valley Forge Military Academy is a private, independent college preparatory school for boys in grades 7-12, offering middle school and high school.

Find out more about Valley Forge Military Academy and College.