In the Shadow of Greatness
Two-time Los Angeles Times Best Seller. Thirty-three stories by the Class of 2002.
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MAY 26, 2023 CLASS COMMUNICATION:
Dear Classmates,
It’s hard to believe that USNA commissioning week is once again coming to a close, an exciting time that I know we all remember well. Today, the class of 2023 is sitting where we sat 21 years ago, celebrating their graduation and commissioning, getting ready to embark on their next great adventure. For those of us still serving on active duty, take this opportunity to brush up on your Gen Z slang so you can effectively communicate with the new members of your ranks.
I had the privilege of representing our class at the Council of Class Presidents meeting in Annapolis last month and had the even greater privilege of sitting beside and talking to CAPT Jerry Rapkin (ret) from the class of 1952 (our link in the chain class).
There are lots of exciting and interesting changes coming to USNA and “the yard” in the coming months and years.
Jeff Webb (’91), the Alumni Association and Foundation president, shared that construction on the new Fluegel Alumni Center is scheduled to be completed this year in late summer/early fall. The beautiful building and outdoor spaces will be available for individual alumni and classes to use as a gathering and meeting place.
VADM Sean Buck (’84), Superintendent, shared that renovations to McDonough Hall will be complete in June of ’25 and the seawall will be complete in September of ’24. Additionally, following a SECNAV review, 2 buildings on the yard are undergoing name changes – Maury Hall is now Carter Hall after former president Jimmy Carter (’46) and Buchanan House (and the street in front) will be renamed to a name to be determined. Admiral Buck also announced (this news was literally released to the public in the middle of his speech) that he will be relieved as Superintendent, pending Senate confirmation, sometime this summer by RADM Yvette Davis (’89).
It was absolutely wonderful to see so many of you at the 20-year reunion this past October and I’m really looking forward to keeping the energy going over the next 5 years and maintaining those renewed bonds as we look toward our 25-year in 2027. Lots to come on that front including tailgaters for the upcoming football season and a new online class store so we can sport the 2002 brand year-round! We’re also exploring ways that we can support, mentor, and help each other as classmates during a time when many of us are making career transitions out of the military and in the private sector. More to come on all of that.
On the note of support and mentoring, if you haven’t looked into it already, consider checking out the USNA Alumni Mentoring Program. You can sign up as both a mentor and a protégé and be matched through an e-mentoring online platform, to engage in meaningful, confidential discussions about challenges, career and life planning, goal setting, and moving forward toward a higher level of achievement.
Be sure to update your alumni profile on usna.com and get registered for myusna.com and join our class Facebook group and LinkedIn group (if you haven’t already) - help us keep in touch with you so you get the latest in class news and events!
Beat Army!
Kate
Kate (Kranz) Jordan
President, USNA 2002