Military Class of 2008

   Dr. James Simms, Coordinator of the Military Leadership/National Security Studies Program and Dr. Walter M. Bortz III, Hampden-Sydney
College President, flank certificate recipient,
Joshua B. "Josh" Hatchell.


On April 18, the seniors in the Military Leadership/National Security Studies Certificate Program were recognized at the annual Wilson Center Awards banquet. This event has been traditionally a highlight of the year for the Wilson Center, a time to recognize accomplishments of both alumni in public service and the seniors of the Military Leadership/National Security Studies and Public Service Certificate Programs.

The program, initiated in 2005, has been under the direction of Dr. James Simms. The 2008 banquet honored the third group of outstanding young men to complete the Military Leadership/National Security Studies Certificate Program. Starting in 2008, this program is recognized as a minor, and is so noted on the transcripts of students who complete the requirements. This years' certificate recipients are:

Brennan P. Breeland (not pictured), a Political Science major, intends to go to law school and enter the service as an officer in the Army's Judge Advocate General's Corps.

David J. Grisdale, an Applied Mathematics major (cum laude), will be commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Army at graduation. David's first assignment will be at Ft. Riley, KS, as an Armor Officer with the 1st Armored Division.

Joshua B. "Josh" Hatchell, a Latin major (summa cum laude), is planning to attend William and Mary Law School in the fall.

Joseph T. "Trey" Keeler III, a Political Science major, has accepted a research position with a Richmond Law firm, and eventually plans to go to law school. Trey was able to complete the requirements of both the Military Leadership Program and the Public Service program.

Eric C. Mendel, Economics and Commerce major (cum laude), is planning to enter law school.

   Dr. James Simms and President Walter M. Bortz III flank David J. Grisdale (left photo)
and Joseph T. "Trey" Keeler III (right photo), who each received certificates of completion in 2008.
Eric C. Mendel receives his certificate.

Coleman Award

Military Leadership/National Security Studies Home Page

2007 Military/National Security Studies Certificate Recipients

2006 Military/National Security Studies Certificate Recipients

Public Service Certificate Program