Maj. JOHN C. McDUGALD (Ret.)
Maj. John C. McDugald (Ret.) died February 10, 2017 in Bristol, New Hampshire at the age of 69.
He was born July 9, 1947 in Bradenton, Florida to Col. Lunsford V. McDugald (Ret.) and Elizabeth H. McDugald. Along with his sister, Linda M. Cullinan and brother, Richard C. McDugald, Maj. McDugald grew up on military posts around the world including West Germany and Japan.
He received a B.S. from the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY and two M.S. degrees from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He received his commission in the U.S. Army in 1970 and served for 21 years including a tour of duty in Vietnam. After his retirement from military service, he taught middle school science at the Bullis School in Potomac, Maryland and the ASC International School in Cobham, England.
Maj. McDugald retired from teaching in 2012 returning to his beloved Newfound Lake in New Hampshire where he had maintained a home for 35 years. In addition to his professional career, he enjoyed pursuits that utilized his skills as a leader, mentor, and teacher. He served as Associate Director at his cousin's summer camp for boys, Masquebec Hill in Bridgewater, New Hampshire, and volunteered as an EMT for the Montgomery County, Maryland Fire and Rescue Services and Hebron, New Hampshire Fire Department.
Several nieces, nephews, and cousins survive him. Maj. McDugald will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington DC with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Superintendent's Fund in memory of John C. McDugald, USMA 1970, at the West Point Association of Graduates.
The Emmons Funeral Home, Bristol, New Hampshire is handling arrangements.
Funeral Home
Emmons Funeral Home
115 South Main Street
Bristol, NH 03222
(603) 744-3358
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/washingtonpost/obituary.aspx?fhid=4807&n=john-mcdugald&pid=184151016#sthash.PHYemQXw.dpuf
USMA West Point Class of 1970 News, Blogs, Class Distro
Thursday, February 16, 2017
JOHNNY MERCER McCLELLAN , USMA 1970, Rest In Peace
JOHNNY MERCER McCLELLAN
Departed unexpectedly on Sunday, February 12, 2017. He was born on August 18, 1948, in Frankfurt, Germany to Stan Leon and Phyllis Irene McClellan.
Johnny graduated from West Point in 1970. He continued to serve in the US Army Infantry, Ranger, Airborne and Special Forces as an officer until 1977, including two and a half years in Vietnam and SE Asia. He resigned as a Captain.
Johnny became engaged to KimOanh Tran in 1977 and later married her in 1978. That same year, Johnny joined IBM where he continued to work until 1993 in systems engineering and sales. After his time with IBM until 2011, Johnny was a residential Realtor in Gaithersburg, MD. There he participated in more than 450 transactions and owned and operated his own Century 21 franchise for eight years.
A good son to his parents, a good brother to his sister, a kind and fun cousin to his cousins, a loving husband and best friend to his wife, a beloved son-in-law, brother-in-law, and uncle-in-law to all of his in-laws, a kind and loyal friend to his friends, a good neighbor to his neighbors. Johnny enjoyed being in the outdoors, hunting and fishing. He was an antique car enthusiast and enjoyed his antique gun collection hobby.
Johnny was a good man and fun person, he will be greatly missed by all. He is survived by his beloved wife, KimOanh McClellan; sister, Karen McClellan.
Friends and family are invited on Sunday, February 19 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. for a Buddhist ceremony. A visitation will then follow from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a Buddhist cremation ceremony starting at 1 p.m. at Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home, 9902 Braddock Rd. Fairfax, VA 22032.
Funeral Home
Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home, L.L.C.
9902 Braddock Road
Fairfax, VA 22032
(703) 425-9702
9902 Braddock Road
Fairfax, VA 22032
(703) 425-9702
Saturday, February 11, 2017
RIP, John C. McDugald, USMA 1970, H1
From a Facebook post:
Dear friends of John C. Mcdugald, USMA 1970, H1.
My name is Chris Cullinan, his oldest nephew. It is with great sadness I share the news of his passing away early in the morning of February 10, 2017 at his home in Bristol, New Hampshire. John has endured several health challenges the last few years. Under the care of home hospice, he passed away peacefully in his sleep with his beloved pets at his side and a blanket of newly fallen snow outside. While the last few years have been difficult, they do not define the totality of his life and the people who he touched and those who touched him. It is difficult to fully describe a life with a few words, but here are some which come to my mind: son, brother, uncle, cousin, brother-in-law, student, solider, Major, teacher, mentor, counselor, EMT, coach, friend. John will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors. I will post details as they become available.
Thursday, February 9, 2017
The Synonymous Relationship of Selfish and Selfless
Brothers,
Reflections on NCEA 2017 from an ROTC student delegate from the University of Alabama. Well done, Class of '70!
SWI,
Barney
My name is Dylan DeFlorio, a Cadet at The University of Alabama. Myself and the three others accompanying me had the privilege to speak with you a few times over the two days… with some insight you gave us that we will not forget. NCEA compelled me to write up a short paper on what I took away form the conference, which I have attached below if you have any interest. I primarily wanted to say thank you for all that you did to make the conference come together. The three cadets from The University of Alabama and myself left NY with a lot of inspiration that we will be attempting to instill on the Cadets here. We all wish you the very best in your remaining time at West Point!
The curiosity of the reader most likely lies with confusion over the title which—at
first glance—doesn’t make much sense. I will elaborate further on why I chose this title,
what it means, and how I believe it will help strengthen future Army leaders of character.
First, it is important to understand the intent of the National Conference for Ethics in
America (NCEA). The conference has been running for thirty-two years bringing
together student and Cadet delegates representing various universities, institutions, and
military academies. Assorted organizations send people they believe will engage in
conversation and get to the root of various problems in today’s complex world. In order
to call the conference a success, delegates must go the extra step to bring their
conclusions back to their own circle of influence. Perhaps the biggest strength of NCEA
is its combination of military and civilian speakers who are well respected in their own
industries. The keynote speakers this year ranged from GEN (R) Raymond Odierno,
38th Chief of Staff of the Army to Mr. Rajiv Vinnakota who is the Executive Vice
President of the Youth & Engagement division at the Aspen Institute. Others included
retired General Officers, the former Under Secretary of the Army, CEOs, school
teachers, and more. Together, the speakers provided their insights on why ethical
conduct is necessary in every organization, how to implement it, and what the results
are of professions founded around a code of ethics. The layout of NCEA was centered
around small group discussions in-between speakers where delegates were provided
the opportunity to communicate amongst each other and analyze what the speakers
offered. The outcome resulted in an understanding of how delegates could implement it
in their own environments.
It is important to first dissect where the NCEA fits into the Army’s standing mission of winning its nations wars. As technology increases, the United States military is able to lean on safer alternatives to unified land operations such as unmanned aircraft systems. Acquiring land via air assets and demonstrating the ability to have eyes on the enemy is necessary, but the efficacy of land power is irrefutable. The United States simply cannot occupy land without boots on the ground interacting with the local populous and conducting operations. In order to control land, the Army needs capable leaders in the tactical, operational, and strategic levels at war. Without robust leaders in every domain, the whole system fails. The NCEA is another tool to help develop those leaders who will one day be tasked with seizing, exploiting, and gaining the initiative or supporting the efforts to do so. If at any moment leaders make the decision to conduct themselves in an unethical manner, then forward progress is lost and shows the world that our morals and values as a nation are comprisable in a time or conflict. This was the other mission of NCEA; to understand the consequence of an Army not founded in ethics.
As a small case study of a man who understands the necessity of selfishness before selfless service, we can look at NCEA speaker Mr. Vinnakota. His story was profound, where he was working in a very well-paying job right after college, on his way to what most would consider a successful career. He had done everything for his self- development such as getting an education from Princeton in molecular biology coupled with a certificate of studies from the Woodrow Wilson School of Public Policy. He had a strong sense of his values but recognized his job did not provide him with the sense of gratification he had hoped for in life. Mr. Vinnakota resigned from his job and started The SEED Foundation; a preparatory boarding school for the urban youth. He was able to take kids who were likely turn to gangs or drugs and put them in a positive environment that resulted in ninety percent of students going on to enroll in college. He was able to create an environment where students could find themselves as individuals without outside distractions and go on to be very successful. The point to this case study is not the success of his foundation, or his career prior. If we look at Mr. Vinnakota’s character and career path it is apparent that he followed the “me first, others later” approach to his life. He did everything he possibly could to become a virtuous character, highly educate himself, and found a reputable name for himself. After he became as well-rounded as possible, he was able to put his focus onto others. What he was able to do with the SEED Foundation arguably could not have been done without the knowledge and experience he had gained when his focus lied on himself.
Selfish and Selflessness are technically antonyms, however with respect to leader development this is not the case. Each individual must be selfish with their time and take the necessary steps to developing their values and aspirations. When we learn to take care of ourselves, we too like Mr. Vinnakota will have the foundation to become selfless servants one day. It is necessary to remember that the more we develop ourselves, the more we will be able to serve selflessly one day. Durable ethical foundations leaders build before commissioning will result in favorable decisions when asked to make strategic decisions as General Officers involving an ethical dilemma. The failure to do so can result in what is known as “The Bathsheba Syndrome”, or the ethical failure of successful leaders. All too often we see our nation’s highest CEOs and military leaders compromise their ethics and make unacceptable decisions. It is no surprise that almost every time this happens; it makes national news. When the time comes as Army leaders, we will have a capable and reinforced ethical attractiveness which will influence others and toughen the institution. A virtuous individual unified with others willing to serve will lead to a strong trust amongst Army leaders and the nation. That trust between leaders of character will help maintain the high level of ethical conduct necessary to such a unique profession as the United States Army. Only then will we be able to win in a complex world.
Reflections on NCEA 2017 from an ROTC student delegate from the University of Alabama. Well done, Class of '70!
SWI,
Barney
My name is Dylan DeFlorio, a Cadet at The University of Alabama. Myself and the three others accompanying me had the privilege to speak with you a few times over the two days… with some insight you gave us that we will not forget. NCEA compelled me to write up a short paper on what I took away form the conference, which I have attached below if you have any interest. I primarily wanted to say thank you for all that you did to make the conference come together. The three cadets from The University of Alabama and myself left NY with a lot of inspiration that we will be attempting to instill on the Cadets here. We all wish you the very best in your remaining time at West Point!
The Synonymous Relationship of Selfish and Selfless
Lessons Learned from the United States Military Academy’s 32nd
National Conference for Ethics in America
By: CDT Dylan J. DeFlorio
It is important to first dissect where the NCEA fits into the Army’s standing mission of winning its nations wars. As technology increases, the United States military is able to lean on safer alternatives to unified land operations such as unmanned aircraft systems. Acquiring land via air assets and demonstrating the ability to have eyes on the enemy is necessary, but the efficacy of land power is irrefutable. The United States simply cannot occupy land without boots on the ground interacting with the local populous and conducting operations. In order to control land, the Army needs capable leaders in the tactical, operational, and strategic levels at war. Without robust leaders in every domain, the whole system fails. The NCEA is another tool to help develop those leaders who will one day be tasked with seizing, exploiting, and gaining the initiative or supporting the efforts to do so. If at any moment leaders make the decision to conduct themselves in an unethical manner, then forward progress is lost and shows the world that our morals and values as a nation are comprisable in a time or conflict. This was the other mission of NCEA; to understand the consequence of an Army not founded in ethics.
During his time as Chief of Staff of the Army, General Odierno tasked General
David Perkins, head of the Army’s Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), to
develop a new Army Operating Concept. He was entrusted with determining out how
the Total Army would train and prepare for futuristic issues they may encounter.
Perkins spearheaded the new concept in TRADOC PAM 525-3-1 “Win in a Complex
World” which—for the first time—focuses on all three levels of war in order to operate in
unknown environments. The foundation of the new concept lies with Army leaders.
“Repetitive training combined with self-study, rigorous education in joint and Army
institutions, and leader development in units ensures that Army forces thrive in chaotic
environments... Leaders and Soldiers are committed to each other and the Army
professional ethic. They remain resilient and preserve their moral character while
operating in environments of persistent danger.” In order to build the future Army force
and instill a new operating concept, it must first be founded with leaders of high
character and professional ethic.
The National Conference for Ethics in America is a building block of how junior leaders can better understand ethics in an organization and why it is so imperative. Without developing an Army founded in a code of ethics, we are unable to improve other tenets and competencies necessary to the application of combat power. Unlike all other professions, when soldiers break their ethical code it not only reflects poorly on the United States Army, but it affects the entire country; a responsibility of the utmost magnitude. This begs the question, and bedrock of the NCEA: How do organizations build unity through selfless service and generate ethical leaders?
To begin answering that question, we must first examine the development of the individual. The 32nd Under Secretary of the Army and Congressman Patrick Murphy, offered a very simple question before speaking further on any other ethics-centered issues: “Who are you?” It is an incredibly simple question to ask college students hoping to make a difference in their environment, however it is a question that I believe is left unanswered for too many. I have found that when becoming indoctrinated with the Army telling us to be selfless servants, we overlook ourselves and hope to serve others before we learn to first serve ourselves.
Nobody wants their reputation to reflect a selfish individual who is primarily concerned with themselves, however being selfish is arguably the first step in a long process to becoming a selfless servant. I find all too often—especially on a college campus with students trying to find their place in life—that we overlook the profound appreciation of ourselves necessary for success later as a servant. While time is one of the most valuable things we have, many do not dedicate time to understanding themselves, learning about their strengths and weaknesses, and understanding what they aspire to be. A list of attributes and competencies linked to an individual is simple to throw together. The execution of improving those attributes and competencies is where many fail. NCEA provided delegates with a copy of Len Marrella’s To Lead is to Serve which offers The Psychologist’s Approach as a concept for character development and what I believe should be a tenant in young students lives:
The National Conference for Ethics in America is a building block of how junior leaders can better understand ethics in an organization and why it is so imperative. Without developing an Army founded in a code of ethics, we are unable to improve other tenets and competencies necessary to the application of combat power. Unlike all other professions, when soldiers break their ethical code it not only reflects poorly on the United States Army, but it affects the entire country; a responsibility of the utmost magnitude. This begs the question, and bedrock of the NCEA: How do organizations build unity through selfless service and generate ethical leaders?
To begin answering that question, we must first examine the development of the individual. The 32nd Under Secretary of the Army and Congressman Patrick Murphy, offered a very simple question before speaking further on any other ethics-centered issues: “Who are you?” It is an incredibly simple question to ask college students hoping to make a difference in their environment, however it is a question that I believe is left unanswered for too many. I have found that when becoming indoctrinated with the Army telling us to be selfless servants, we overlook ourselves and hope to serve others before we learn to first serve ourselves.
Nobody wants their reputation to reflect a selfish individual who is primarily concerned with themselves, however being selfish is arguably the first step in a long process to becoming a selfless servant. I find all too often—especially on a college campus with students trying to find their place in life—that we overlook the profound appreciation of ourselves necessary for success later as a servant. While time is one of the most valuable things we have, many do not dedicate time to understanding themselves, learning about their strengths and weaknesses, and understanding what they aspire to be. A list of attributes and competencies linked to an individual is simple to throw together. The execution of improving those attributes and competencies is where many fail. NCEA provided delegates with a copy of Len Marrella’s To Lead is to Serve which offers The Psychologist’s Approach as a concept for character development and what I believe should be a tenant in young students lives:
WATCH YOUR THOUGHTS
THEY BECOME YOUR WORDS
WATCH YOUR WORDS
THEY BECOME YOUR ACTIONS
WATCH YOUR ACTIONS
THEY BECOME YOUR HABITS
WATCH YOUR HABITS
THEY BECOME YOUR CHARACTER
WATCH YOUR CHARACTER
IT BECOMES YOUR DESTINY
As a small case study of a man who understands the necessity of selfishness before selfless service, we can look at NCEA speaker Mr. Vinnakota. His story was profound, where he was working in a very well-paying job right after college, on his way to what most would consider a successful career. He had done everything for his self- development such as getting an education from Princeton in molecular biology coupled with a certificate of studies from the Woodrow Wilson School of Public Policy. He had a strong sense of his values but recognized his job did not provide him with the sense of gratification he had hoped for in life. Mr. Vinnakota resigned from his job and started The SEED Foundation; a preparatory boarding school for the urban youth. He was able to take kids who were likely turn to gangs or drugs and put them in a positive environment that resulted in ninety percent of students going on to enroll in college. He was able to create an environment where students could find themselves as individuals without outside distractions and go on to be very successful. The point to this case study is not the success of his foundation, or his career prior. If we look at Mr. Vinnakota’s character and career path it is apparent that he followed the “me first, others later” approach to his life. He did everything he possibly could to become a virtuous character, highly educate himself, and found a reputable name for himself. After he became as well-rounded as possible, he was able to put his focus onto others. What he was able to do with the SEED Foundation arguably could not have been done without the knowledge and experience he had gained when his focus lied on himself.
Selfish and Selflessness are technically antonyms, however with respect to leader development this is not the case. Each individual must be selfish with their time and take the necessary steps to developing their values and aspirations. When we learn to take care of ourselves, we too like Mr. Vinnakota will have the foundation to become selfless servants one day. It is necessary to remember that the more we develop ourselves, the more we will be able to serve selflessly one day. Durable ethical foundations leaders build before commissioning will result in favorable decisions when asked to make strategic decisions as General Officers involving an ethical dilemma. The failure to do so can result in what is known as “The Bathsheba Syndrome”, or the ethical failure of successful leaders. All too often we see our nation’s highest CEOs and military leaders compromise their ethics and make unacceptable decisions. It is no surprise that almost every time this happens; it makes national news. When the time comes as Army leaders, we will have a capable and reinforced ethical attractiveness which will influence others and toughen the institution. A virtuous individual unified with others willing to serve will lead to a strong trust amongst Army leaders and the nation. That trust between leaders of character will help maintain the high level of ethical conduct necessary to such a unique profession as the United States Army. Only then will we be able to win in a complex world.
As mentioned before, it would be a gross failure of NCEA delegates to not bring
back their conclusions to their respective universities. At the University of Alabama
Army ROTC program, we have the honor of continuing a legacy of excellence left from
past Cadets. The future success of the Crimson Tide Battalion rest with our ability to
teach Cadets a healthy balance of selfish and selfless. Perhaps the biggest selfish act
any Cadet does is focus on their schoolwork; and rightfully so. Developmental
counseling’s should begin to focus more on the individual’s lifestyle and aspirations they
may have. When targeting where they want to be in five, ten, and twenty years it will be
easier for current leadership in the Battalion to help them understand when to focus on
themselves, and when to focus on improving the organization. To be clear, various
details and color guard events is helpful, but not what leaders should praise as selfless
service. After all, holding the flag at a sporting event honors the country, but it is the
sports team thanking us for our selfless service, not the Battalion doing them a selfless
service. As an organization we must first begin with showing the younger Cadets the
passion we have as leaders. Once they understand why we are motivated to give back,
they will naturally find new ways they can help. Understanding how and when to teach
Cadets to be selfish is the harder of the two tasks. If we go too far and don’t explain the
need for selfish development the right way, it may be taken too far. If we preach too
much selflessness, then the foundation of their characters will not be tough enough.
Crimson Tide Battalion leaders must refine their teaching style to adjust to each
individual, in turn building a commissioning source for ethical leaders of character.
Tuesday, February 7, 2017
The West Point Association of Graduates thanks all our Superintendent’s Annual Fund, West Point Parents Fund, Long Gray Line, and A Club donors
The West Point Association of Graduates thanks all our Superintendent’s Annual Fund, West Point Parents Fund, Long Gray Line, and A Club donors who made 2016 such a resounding success! Because of you, we had a record year and raised $49.9 million in cash receipts for the Academy and WPAOG. Your gifts to the Academy’s and WPAOG’s unrestricted Annual Funds strengthen the Academy’s Margin of Excellence programs for cadets and sustain the traditions that honor generations of West Point graduates. Video
Friday, February 3, 2017
Save The Date - USMA 1970 50th Year Reunion 17-20 May 2020
The USMA Class of 1970 is beginning the planning process for our 50th Reunion. Guidance from DAA/AOG – “Typically the 50th reunion class returns during Grad Week. The dates in 2020 are 17-20 May. Other classes that we expect will return during the same period are -- 1945, 1950, 1955, and 1965. The average % of living grads that returned for the 50th reunion during the period 2009-2015 is 65%.”
Typical 50th Reunion Week (held at the beginning of our Affiliated Class of USMA 2020’s Graduation Week) Schedule is as follows:
Sunday 17 May 2020
• Registration
• Golf Outing
• USMA Band Concert (1400-1500, in Ike Theater)
• Ice Breaker
Monday 18 May 2020
• Registration
• Memorial Service
• Lunch
• Academy & WPAOG Update Briefing (1330-1445, in Ike Theater)
• Class Business Meeting
• West Point Tours
• Organ Recital (1515-1545, Cadet Chapel)
• Cocktails and Dinner
Tuesday 19 May 2020
• Alumni Exercises (1005, Graduates assemble near Ike Statue)
• Cadet Review (1100, the Plain)
• Alumni Luncheon (1215, Cadet Mess)
• Includes the Distinguished Graduate Award Presentation
• Cocktails and Dinner
Wednesday 20 May 2020
• Class Departs
Joan Emmer once again will be our Reunion Coordinator, and Pat Thornton and Frank Monaco, advised by a class committee who volunteered during our 45th Reunion After Action Review, will lead the planning efforts. Note that the above schedule is tentative and subject to change! Stay tuned to http://usma1970.com (and our Facebook Group and Class Blog) as well as our class email distribution list - send updates for email (and other contact information) to address@wpaog.org (please keep this up to date!)
Planning for 50th Reunion Gift to USMA – A “Heads Up” to the Class. Initial planning for the “1970 Campaign for West Point” (the name approved for our Class gift effort) has begun. First steps are the formation of a Gift Selection Committee which will recommend a monetary target and propose a slate of gifts from which our classmates will select the gift, and the reinstitution of our company representatives charged with communicating with their company mates as to progress and status. The Chair of the Gift Selection Committee has been identified (Joe Reeder) and he is in the process of manning the committee. Company Representatives will be an important part of this process in order to communicate with our classmates as to progress and to encourage maximum participation in the campaign. If you have an interest in participating as your First Class Company representative, please contact Steve Strom, Class Giving Officer, to let him know at sstrom5373@aol.com. More to follow.
Tuesday, January 31, 2017
National Conference on Ethics in America 2017 USMA 1970 Update
Barney Forsythe SENDS:
January 31, 2017
Dear Members of the USMA Class of 1970,
On January 24 and 25, I attended NCEA 2017 with classmates Jim Lovelace and Marshall Larsen. As in years past, I offer this after-action report on NCEA 2017 so you will appreciate the impact of our gift.
I want begin by thanking our classmates on the NCEA Committee for their behind-the-scenes support of this year’s conference. The assistance these classmates provided in identifying points of contact at civilian institutions paid big dividends and resulted in a strong attendance. The snow and freezing rain in the New York area that week resulted in a few last-minute cancellations, but despite the weather, we had a great turnout.
Fifty-two schools from across the country sent delegates, including Stanford, Notre Dame, Michigan, Loyola, John Hopkins, Dartmouth, Cornell, and MIT. In all, about 262 delegates attended, including 60 West Point cadets, 196 students from civilian institutions and other service academies, and 6 faculty members.
This year’s topic was Selflessness: Building Unity Through Service. The guest speakers provided inspirational stories about their lives of selfless service.
The Superintendent, LTG Bob Caslen, Jr., opened the conference by thanking the Class of 1970 and the Daniels Fund for the support of NCEA. The Supe stressed the importance of character and selflessness. He made it clear that the NCEA is vital part of West Point’s character development program, and encouraged the delegates to apply what they learn at the conference to their daily lives.
GEN Ray Odierno, 38th Chief of Staff of the Army, led off the conference by sharing his personal stories of selfless service and commenting on other successful people he knows who are making a difference in their communities and in our country.
Ms. Shena Wright, CEO of the New York City United Way, shared her personal story growing up in the South Bronx and spoke about the sources of her motivation to serve: her moral compass, her appreciation for her gifts and skills that can help others, her appreciation of those who came before her, and the people who encourage her and keep her grounded.
Mr. Rajiv Vinnakota, VP of the Youth and Engagement Division of the Aspen Institute, shared the story of how, at age 26, he and a friend established a publicly-funded boarding school for low income inner-city kids. This was an amazing story of how two young people saw a need, quit their high-paying jobs, and made a difference in the lives of others.
Dr. Darryl Adams, recently retired school superintendent, shared his personal story of transforming the poorest school district in America into one of the most successful, earning praise from President Obama.
Former Congressman and Under Secretary of the Army Patrick Murphy kicked off day 2 of the conference with personal stories about how and why he seeks to serve others. He emphasized the importance of character, and shared his experience of being trapped in a commuter train that derailed and killed eight people. He and an Army veteran worked to free the people in his train car who were trapped and injured. His point—you never know when and how you will be called to serve others.
Jim and Marshall presented their reflections on the NCEA theme in a Class of 1970 Panel. Their personal stories, delivered with humility and candor, made a strong impression on the delegates; they did us proud.
Mr. Max Kenner, founder and Executive Director of the Bard College Prison Initiative, talked about the horrors of mass incarceration in the US and how he tried to bring hope to prisoners through education.
Mrs. Dana McDonough, New York State Teacher of the Year, and Ms. Beach Pace (USMA ’91), CEO of Big Brother and Big Sisters in Portland, Oregon, concluded the conference with a panel discussion of the importance of investing in young people.
During table group discussions that occurred throughout the conference, delegates reflected on the speakers’ remarks and applied the lessons to their own campuses. Jim and I listened to several table group conversations and were impressed by their depth and substance.
Initial feedback from delegates was quite positive. They appreciated the quality and diversity of speakers, the opportunity to meet other student delegates from diverse backgrounds, the inspirational and challenging content, the table discussions, and the pace of events. Suggestions for improvement included providing more ethical challenges for table group discussions, enhancing training for small group facilitators, and offering more time to tour the campus (note: the weather was terrible during the first day of the conference). The SCPME staff will use this feedback as it designs next year’s conference, which is currently scheduled for February 13-14, 2018.
This was Jim’s first time attending the NCEA; his fresh perspective was helpful to those of us who have been deeply involved in the conference for so many years. Here are his impressions: “The format of leaders sharing their stories followed by group discussion was powerful, impressive and motivating…I recommend not changing this learning/internalizing dynamic. Opening the program up to those emerging leaders beyond the “walls of West Point” has proven so critical to the success of our vision. I liked everything I saw…so how do we help in sustaining it?”
My impression is that NCEA is now a reflection of our original vision, and the SCPME has it well in hand. As their staffing increases with the addition of full-time faculty members in the next few years, the future of the NCEA remains bright. They have a model for an external conference that works; the next few years will bring refinements and enhancements. In conversations with the SCPME staff, we talked about the importance of following-up with delegates after the conference and assessing the NCEA’s longer-term impact.
COL Scott Halstead turned this year’s conference over to Dr. (COL, retired) Jeff Peterson, who holds the Chair for the Study of Officership in the SCPME and will provide long-term continuity. Jeff was an Academy Professor in the Department of Social Sciences before his retirement, and brings to the SCPME and the NCEA invaluable experience running SCUSA. Scott is doing a one-year tour in Afghanistan and will return to the SCPME for his last assignment. Both Scott and Jeff will provide much needed continuity. During the conference, I had a conversation with the Superintendent’s strategic planner about even more fully integrating NCEA into the overall program of cadet development at the Military Academy. An encouraging sign, indeed.
The Class of 1970 panel was well received, and Jeff Peterson indicated he would like to make it a regular session in subsequent conferences. This will provide other classmates an opportunity to participate in the NCEA in a meaningful way. Details to follow.
I anticipate the SCPME will continue to seek suggestions from the Class of 1970 on potential conference topics, possible speakers, and institutions. As Jim Lovelace so eloquently said, “We most definitely should keep our hand on the helm of this ‘gift,’ but we need not oversteer it.” To that end, the NCEA Committee will remain your liaison to West Point in support the conference, as appropriate. We welcome your feedback.
Many dedicated classmates helped steward the NCEA during a difficult time, and thanks to their efforts, the strong leadership of LTG Caslen, and the commitment of the SCPME staff, our class gift is in a strong position. The NCEA is now an established part of the West Point program. Well done, Class of 1970!
Serve with Integrity,
Barney Forsythe
January 31, 2017
Dear Members of the USMA Class of 1970,
On January 24 and 25, I attended NCEA 2017 with classmates Jim Lovelace and Marshall Larsen. As in years past, I offer this after-action report on NCEA 2017 so you will appreciate the impact of our gift.
I want begin by thanking our classmates on the NCEA Committee for their behind-the-scenes support of this year’s conference. The assistance these classmates provided in identifying points of contact at civilian institutions paid big dividends and resulted in a strong attendance. The snow and freezing rain in the New York area that week resulted in a few last-minute cancellations, but despite the weather, we had a great turnout.
Fifty-two schools from across the country sent delegates, including Stanford, Notre Dame, Michigan, Loyola, John Hopkins, Dartmouth, Cornell, and MIT. In all, about 262 delegates attended, including 60 West Point cadets, 196 students from civilian institutions and other service academies, and 6 faculty members.
This year’s topic was Selflessness: Building Unity Through Service. The guest speakers provided inspirational stories about their lives of selfless service.
The Superintendent, LTG Bob Caslen, Jr., opened the conference by thanking the Class of 1970 and the Daniels Fund for the support of NCEA. The Supe stressed the importance of character and selflessness. He made it clear that the NCEA is vital part of West Point’s character development program, and encouraged the delegates to apply what they learn at the conference to their daily lives.
GEN Ray Odierno, 38th Chief of Staff of the Army, led off the conference by sharing his personal stories of selfless service and commenting on other successful people he knows who are making a difference in their communities and in our country.
Ms. Shena Wright, CEO of the New York City United Way, shared her personal story growing up in the South Bronx and spoke about the sources of her motivation to serve: her moral compass, her appreciation for her gifts and skills that can help others, her appreciation of those who came before her, and the people who encourage her and keep her grounded.
Mr. Rajiv Vinnakota, VP of the Youth and Engagement Division of the Aspen Institute, shared the story of how, at age 26, he and a friend established a publicly-funded boarding school for low income inner-city kids. This was an amazing story of how two young people saw a need, quit their high-paying jobs, and made a difference in the lives of others.
Dr. Darryl Adams, recently retired school superintendent, shared his personal story of transforming the poorest school district in America into one of the most successful, earning praise from President Obama.
Former Congressman and Under Secretary of the Army Patrick Murphy kicked off day 2 of the conference with personal stories about how and why he seeks to serve others. He emphasized the importance of character, and shared his experience of being trapped in a commuter train that derailed and killed eight people. He and an Army veteran worked to free the people in his train car who were trapped and injured. His point—you never know when and how you will be called to serve others.
Jim and Marshall presented their reflections on the NCEA theme in a Class of 1970 Panel. Their personal stories, delivered with humility and candor, made a strong impression on the delegates; they did us proud.
Mr. Max Kenner, founder and Executive Director of the Bard College Prison Initiative, talked about the horrors of mass incarceration in the US and how he tried to bring hope to prisoners through education.
Mrs. Dana McDonough, New York State Teacher of the Year, and Ms. Beach Pace (USMA ’91), CEO of Big Brother and Big Sisters in Portland, Oregon, concluded the conference with a panel discussion of the importance of investing in young people.
During table group discussions that occurred throughout the conference, delegates reflected on the speakers’ remarks and applied the lessons to their own campuses. Jim and I listened to several table group conversations and were impressed by their depth and substance.
Initial feedback from delegates was quite positive. They appreciated the quality and diversity of speakers, the opportunity to meet other student delegates from diverse backgrounds, the inspirational and challenging content, the table discussions, and the pace of events. Suggestions for improvement included providing more ethical challenges for table group discussions, enhancing training for small group facilitators, and offering more time to tour the campus (note: the weather was terrible during the first day of the conference). The SCPME staff will use this feedback as it designs next year’s conference, which is currently scheduled for February 13-14, 2018.
This was Jim’s first time attending the NCEA; his fresh perspective was helpful to those of us who have been deeply involved in the conference for so many years. Here are his impressions: “The format of leaders sharing their stories followed by group discussion was powerful, impressive and motivating…I recommend not changing this learning/internalizing dynamic. Opening the program up to those emerging leaders beyond the “walls of West Point” has proven so critical to the success of our vision. I liked everything I saw…so how do we help in sustaining it?”
My impression is that NCEA is now a reflection of our original vision, and the SCPME has it well in hand. As their staffing increases with the addition of full-time faculty members in the next few years, the future of the NCEA remains bright. They have a model for an external conference that works; the next few years will bring refinements and enhancements. In conversations with the SCPME staff, we talked about the importance of following-up with delegates after the conference and assessing the NCEA’s longer-term impact.
COL Scott Halstead turned this year’s conference over to Dr. (COL, retired) Jeff Peterson, who holds the Chair for the Study of Officership in the SCPME and will provide long-term continuity. Jeff was an Academy Professor in the Department of Social Sciences before his retirement, and brings to the SCPME and the NCEA invaluable experience running SCUSA. Scott is doing a one-year tour in Afghanistan and will return to the SCPME for his last assignment. Both Scott and Jeff will provide much needed continuity. During the conference, I had a conversation with the Superintendent’s strategic planner about even more fully integrating NCEA into the overall program of cadet development at the Military Academy. An encouraging sign, indeed.
The Class of 1970 panel was well received, and Jeff Peterson indicated he would like to make it a regular session in subsequent conferences. This will provide other classmates an opportunity to participate in the NCEA in a meaningful way. Details to follow.
I anticipate the SCPME will continue to seek suggestions from the Class of 1970 on potential conference topics, possible speakers, and institutions. As Jim Lovelace so eloquently said, “We most definitely should keep our hand on the helm of this ‘gift,’ but we need not oversteer it.” To that end, the NCEA Committee will remain your liaison to West Point in support the conference, as appropriate. We welcome your feedback.
Many dedicated classmates helped steward the NCEA during a difficult time, and thanks to their efforts, the strong leadership of LTG Caslen, and the commitment of the SCPME staff, our class gift is in a strong position. The NCEA is now an established part of the West Point program. Well done, Class of 1970!
Serve with Integrity,
Barney Forsythe
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