Today at NPS March 2014
Today @ NPS March 2014
U.S. Navy Photo by MCSN Michael Ehrlich
Research Requirements Fair Brings Students, Program Managers Together
By MCSN Michael Ehrlich
U.S. Marine Corp. Maj. Brent Molaski, left, leads a presentation on remote sensor emplacement during NPS’ first Naval Research Requirements Fair, March 3. The fair provided an opportunity for program and resource managers throughout the Navy and Department of Defense to directly engage NPS students and faculty on areas of possible research.
“The intent of the event was to partner up graduates with proponents of various Naval needs and requirements,” said Naval Studies Program Manager, Associate Professor retired Army Col. Any Hernandez.
“Our researchers need a well defined subject in front of them, and the requirements fair will establish a connection and create dialogue between students and researchers,” continued Hernandez.
Showcased research included, amongst other things, new technology integration, service member retention, combat system flexibility, and advanced weaponry. Presentations were given to small groups, introduced during panel discussions and shared with interested parties off-campus via teleconference.
NPS Provost Dr. Douglas A. Hensler used the event to highlight the value that NPS brings to the Navy and the DOD.
“The cost of NPS is offset by its return on investment,” said Hensler. “NPS can pay it forward in perpetuity,”
Event organizers are hopeful that the fair will result in new research opportunities that will bring value to the Fleet, and that it will result in an even richer graduate experience for NPS students.
By MCSN Michael Ehrlich
U.S. Marine Corp. Maj. Brent Molaski, left, leads a presentation on remote sensor emplacement during NPS’ first Naval Research Requirements Fair, March 3. The fair provided an opportunity for program and resource managers throughout the Navy and Department of Defense to directly engage NPS students and faculty on areas of possible research.
“The intent of the event was to partner up graduates with proponents of various Naval needs and requirements,” said Naval Studies Program Manager, Associate Professor retired Army Col. Any Hernandez.
“Our researchers need a well defined subject in front of them, and the requirements fair will establish a connection and create dialogue between students and researchers,” continued Hernandez.
Showcased research included, amongst other things, new technology integration, service member retention, combat system flexibility, and advanced weaponry. Presentations were given to small groups, introduced during panel discussions and shared with interested parties off-campus via teleconference.
NPS Provost Dr. Douglas A. Hensler used the event to highlight the value that NPS brings to the Navy and the DOD.
“The cost of NPS is offset by its return on investment,” said Hensler. “NPS can pay it forward in perpetuity,”
Event organizers are hopeful that the fair will result in new research opportunities that will bring value to the Fleet, and that it will result in an even richer graduate experience for NPS students.
U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Shawn Stewart
USS Higgins Shipmates Reconnect at NPS
By MC2 Shawn Stewart
Several former shipmates from the USS Higgins (DDG-76) reconnected at NPS’ Roman Plunge Reflecting Pool, March 3, during the promotion ceremony for one of their colleagues, Lt. Cmdr. Maxine Gardner, center.
During their time on the Higgins, the crew earned numerous awards including the Blue Battle (E) Effectiveness Award. Gardner, a supply corps officer, was quick to thank her then Executive Officer, Mabini, whose advice helped shaped her career.
“Cmdr. Mabini is the kind of naval officer that takes the time to mentor junior officers,” said Gardner. “Not because he has to, but because he really enjoys taking part in the professional development of Sailors lucky enough to serve with, or in this case study with him,” she added.
“I can’t express how happy I was to learn that each of them individually decided to attend NPS,“ said Mabini. “When I was the Executive Officer of the USS Higgins my first recommendation to every junior officer on board was to get their master’s degree ... and there isn’t a better place to do so than NPS.”
By MC2 Shawn Stewart
Several former shipmates from the USS Higgins (DDG-76) reconnected at NPS’ Roman Plunge Reflecting Pool, March 3, during the promotion ceremony for one of their colleagues, Lt. Cmdr. Maxine Gardner, center.
During their time on the Higgins, the crew earned numerous awards including the Blue Battle (E) Effectiveness Award. Gardner, a supply corps officer, was quick to thank her then Executive Officer, Mabini, whose advice helped shaped her career.
“Cmdr. Mabini is the kind of naval officer that takes the time to mentor junior officers,” said Gardner. “Not because he has to, but because he really enjoys taking part in the professional development of Sailors lucky enough to serve with, or in this case study with him,” she added.
“I can’t express how happy I was to learn that each of them individually decided to attend NPS,“ said Mabini. “When I was the Executive Officer of the USS Higgins my first recommendation to every junior officer on board was to get their master’s degree ... and there isn’t a better place to do so than NPS.”
U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Shawn J. Stewart
CHDS Alumni Return to Campus for APEX Annual Conference
By MC3 Danica M. Sirmans
From left to right: Superintendent of Massachusetts State Police, Tim Alben; former Deputy Administrator of FEMA DHS, Rich Serino; Director of Boston EMS, Jim Hooley; lead a discussion at the Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and Security (CHDS) Alumni Professional Exchange Education Workshop, at the Barbara McNitt Ballroom, Mar. 4. The alumni-led discussion focused on the medical response, investigation and legal issues related to the Boston Marathon Bombing that took place last April.
Assistant Chief of Los Angeles Fire Department and CHDS alumni, Pat Butler, introduced the panel and opened the floor for discussion.
“This discussion with your colleagues and some of the most influential leaders in homeland security is a touchstone moment for us to look at a very solemn event and to discuss some of the challenges and successes,” said Butler. “With the state, local, and federal level represented, I think each of your agencies will value the discussion we’ll be having here today.
The three-person panel discussed the dual bombing at the finish line of the Boston Marathon, Apr. 15, 2013. The bombing resulted in the loss of three lives and 264 injuries.
“From a law enforcement perspective,” said Alben with the Massachusetts State Police, “each and every greater scale public event, whether that be a sporting event or otherwise, provides our agencies with the opportunity to work together. So, when it came to April 15th, Jim Hooley wasn’t a stranger, all of these different greater-Boston agencies were not strangers. That was paramount in the bombings.”
Butler rounded out the discussion in highlighting the spirit of Boston post-tragedy.
“Out of such a solemn event, the spirit of Boston prevailed above all,” said Butler. “Boston Strong.”
The 118th Boston Marathon is slated to take place April 18, 2014.
By MC3 Danica M. Sirmans
From left to right: Superintendent of Massachusetts State Police, Tim Alben; former Deputy Administrator of FEMA DHS, Rich Serino; Director of Boston EMS, Jim Hooley; lead a discussion at the Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and Security (CHDS) Alumni Professional Exchange Education Workshop, at the Barbara McNitt Ballroom, Mar. 4. The alumni-led discussion focused on the medical response, investigation and legal issues related to the Boston Marathon Bombing that took place last April.
Assistant Chief of Los Angeles Fire Department and CHDS alumni, Pat Butler, introduced the panel and opened the floor for discussion.
“This discussion with your colleagues and some of the most influential leaders in homeland security is a touchstone moment for us to look at a very solemn event and to discuss some of the challenges and successes,” said Butler. “With the state, local, and federal level represented, I think each of your agencies will value the discussion we’ll be having here today.
The three-person panel discussed the dual bombing at the finish line of the Boston Marathon, Apr. 15, 2013. The bombing resulted in the loss of three lives and 264 injuries.
“From a law enforcement perspective,” said Alben with the Massachusetts State Police, “each and every greater scale public event, whether that be a sporting event or otherwise, provides our agencies with the opportunity to work together. So, when it came to April 15th, Jim Hooley wasn’t a stranger, all of these different greater-Boston agencies were not strangers. That was paramount in the bombings.”
Butler rounded out the discussion in highlighting the spirit of Boston post-tragedy.
“Out of such a solemn event, the spirit of Boston prevailed above all,” said Butler. “Boston Strong.”
The 118th Boston Marathon is slated to take place April 18, 2014.
U.S. Navy Photo by MC2 Shawn Stewart
NPS Flag Admin Chief Commissioned to Ensign
By MC2 Shawn Stewart
Leading Chief Petty Officer (LCPO) of Flag Administration Yeoman Chief Sosthenes Henry stands at attention as his mother and wife secure his ensign shoulder boards into place during his commissioning ceremony in Herrmann Hall, Feb. 28.
“I envisioned being a chief and a naval officer ever since I was an E-2,” said Henry. “To have the opportunity to make it happen is a humbling experience.”
Several officials from the institution, including NPS President retired Vice Adm. Ronald A. Route, Command Chaplin Lt. Cmdr. William Riley and NPS Facilities Management Director Andrew “Pete” Boerlage, joined countless friends, family and colleagues attended the ceremony.
“I’m extremely impressed with Ensign Henry’s leadership style,” said Boerlage, ”His Sailors respect him, that’s why they are willing to work the long hours required to get the mission done.”
Officers and Sailors alike agree that Henry’s ability to lead was a driving factor in achieving this important promotion.
“His accomplishment is one that is achieved through superior performance over a sustained amount of time,” said Leitner. “He has been a role model and mentor to not only enlisted Sailors, but to officers and staff as well.”
“Ensign Henry has highly impacted my naval career and life,” added Yeoman 3rd Class Petty Officer Breana Ruiz, “The things I have learned from him about leadership and integrity I can take with me throughout the rest of my career and life.”
By MC2 Shawn Stewart
Leading Chief Petty Officer (LCPO) of Flag Administration Yeoman Chief Sosthenes Henry stands at attention as his mother and wife secure his ensign shoulder boards into place during his commissioning ceremony in Herrmann Hall, Feb. 28.
“I envisioned being a chief and a naval officer ever since I was an E-2,” said Henry. “To have the opportunity to make it happen is a humbling experience.”
Several officials from the institution, including NPS President retired Vice Adm. Ronald A. Route, Command Chaplin Lt. Cmdr. William Riley and NPS Facilities Management Director Andrew “Pete” Boerlage, joined countless friends, family and colleagues attended the ceremony.
“I’m extremely impressed with Ensign Henry’s leadership style,” said Boerlage, ”His Sailors respect him, that’s why they are willing to work the long hours required to get the mission done.”
Officers and Sailors alike agree that Henry’s ability to lead was a driving factor in achieving this important promotion.
“His accomplishment is one that is achieved through superior performance over a sustained amount of time,” said Leitner. “He has been a role model and mentor to not only enlisted Sailors, but to officers and staff as well.”
“Ensign Henry has highly impacted my naval career and life,” added Yeoman 3rd Class Petty Officer Breana Ruiz, “The things I have learned from him about leadership and integrity I can take with me throughout the rest of my career and life.”
U.S. Navy photo by Javier Chagoya
Academic Planning Staff Honored With 40-Year Government Service Pin
By Javier Chagoya
NPS Academic Planning Administrative Officer Rumi Escobido, front center, was awarded her 40-year pin during a brief ceremony in her honor in Herrmann Hall, Feb. 27. The pin was presented in honor of Escobido’s four decades of government service.
“I think NPS is a very nice place to work. The atmosphere is beautiful and the people are great,” said Escobido.
Escobido began her government career working at the Dudley Knox Library in 1978. In 1989 she applied for a job in the Academic Planning Department where she was hired as a Resource Management Assistant and she now supervises a staff of four.
Escobido had deep ties to the local community.
“My family has lived in the Watsonville and Monterey area for three generations,” said Escobido. “I graduated from Seaside High School and later Heald Business College where I studied secretarial and administrative skills.”
Escobido loves her job and the people she works with. She is known, for amongst other things, her penchant for sharing food and for cooking up exotic, gastronomic masterpieces for all to enjoy.
By Javier Chagoya
NPS Academic Planning Administrative Officer Rumi Escobido, front center, was awarded her 40-year pin during a brief ceremony in her honor in Herrmann Hall, Feb. 27. The pin was presented in honor of Escobido’s four decades of government service.
“I think NPS is a very nice place to work. The atmosphere is beautiful and the people are great,” said Escobido.
Escobido began her government career working at the Dudley Knox Library in 1978. In 1989 she applied for a job in the Academic Planning Department where she was hired as a Resource Management Assistant and she now supervises a staff of four.
Escobido had deep ties to the local community.
“My family has lived in the Watsonville and Monterey area for three generations,” said Escobido. “I graduated from Seaside High School and later Heald Business College where I studied secretarial and administrative skills.”
Escobido loves her job and the people she works with. She is known, for amongst other things, her penchant for sharing food and for cooking up exotic, gastronomic masterpieces for all to enjoy.
U.S. Navy photo by Javier Chagoya
Three Staff Sailors Recognized for Outstanding Service
By Javier Chagoya
Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) staff Petty Officers Yeoman 3rd Class Breana Ruiz, Information Systems Technician 1st Class Lance Bloodworth and Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Jeremy Myers, from left to right, proudly display their Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals presented during morning Staff Quarters, March 7, in front of the university’s Herrmann Hall.
Bloodworth’s fourth Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal recognized, in particular, his service as Leading Petty Officer in the Telecommunications Assistance Center from January 2013 to December 2013. Bloodworth was also selected as the 2013 Senior Sailor of the Year.
“Coming to NPS has truly been a blessing, and has provided more opportunities to me than I could have imagined. Being selected for Sailor of the Year for the second straight year was made possible fra lot of hard work and dedication to the command mission,” Bloodworth said. “Just as importantly, my ITACS team made it through a tough period of hiring freezes, employee furlough, and the first cybersecurity Inspection. I couldn’t have done it all by myself, and I will be forever grateful to those who helped me along the way as I depart NPS in the fall.”
Myers’ third Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal Award honored his professional achievement as Leading Petty Officer in NPS’ Protocol Office from January 2013 to December 2013, while he was also selected as the 2013 Junior Sailor of the Year.
By Javier Chagoya
Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) staff Petty Officers Yeoman 3rd Class Breana Ruiz, Information Systems Technician 1st Class Lance Bloodworth and Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Jeremy Myers, from left to right, proudly display their Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals presented during morning Staff Quarters, March 7, in front of the university’s Herrmann Hall.
Bloodworth’s fourth Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal recognized, in particular, his service as Leading Petty Officer in the Telecommunications Assistance Center from January 2013 to December 2013. Bloodworth was also selected as the 2013 Senior Sailor of the Year.
“Coming to NPS has truly been a blessing, and has provided more opportunities to me than I could have imagined. Being selected for Sailor of the Year for the second straight year was made possible fra lot of hard work and dedication to the command mission,” Bloodworth said. “Just as importantly, my ITACS team made it through a tough period of hiring freezes, employee furlough, and the first cybersecurity Inspection. I couldn’t have done it all by myself, and I will be forever grateful to those who helped me along the way as I depart NPS in the fall.”
Myers’ third Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal Award honored his professional achievement as Leading Petty Officer in NPS’ Protocol Office from January 2013 to December 2013, while he was also selected as the 2013 Junior Sailor of the Year.
U.S. Navy photo by Javier Chagoya
NAVSUP’s First Participants Attending EMBA Program
By Javier Chagoya
Graduate School of Business and Public Policy (GSBPP) Associate Professor Deborah Gibbons introduces her Teams Management Course to students from the Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) during a classroom break. The five, Adrianna Ward, Melody Small, Wendy Zimmerman, Daryll Kuhn and Stacey Fry, from left to right, are the first ever to be sponsored by their command for the two-year Executive Master in Business Administration (EMBA) program, which includes a one week NPS orientation.
Kuhn has worked 13 years at NAVSUP Business Systems Center (BSC) in the Comptroller’s Office and is excited to use what he’s learned in just one week.
“I see the benefit of the Teams Management Course to be immediate. I'm a Team Leader for four comptroller positions ranging from reimbursable work to labor analysis. Although we may not exactly align to the definition of a team per our managing teams class during Orientation Week, there are many things that I’ve learned from that class which will hopefully help to be an effective Team Leader,” said Kuhn.
The “Mechanicsburg 5” as the they have come to be known on campus, have already returned to their jobs at NAVSUP, and pare preparing to start the program, April 1. Their academic journey will end when they graduate in March of 2016.
By Javier Chagoya
Graduate School of Business and Public Policy (GSBPP) Associate Professor Deborah Gibbons introduces her Teams Management Course to students from the Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) during a classroom break. The five, Adrianna Ward, Melody Small, Wendy Zimmerman, Daryll Kuhn and Stacey Fry, from left to right, are the first ever to be sponsored by their command for the two-year Executive Master in Business Administration (EMBA) program, which includes a one week NPS orientation.
Kuhn has worked 13 years at NAVSUP Business Systems Center (BSC) in the Comptroller’s Office and is excited to use what he’s learned in just one week.
“I see the benefit of the Teams Management Course to be immediate. I'm a Team Leader for four comptroller positions ranging from reimbursable work to labor analysis. Although we may not exactly align to the definition of a team per our managing teams class during Orientation Week, there are many things that I’ve learned from that class which will hopefully help to be an effective Team Leader,” said Kuhn.
The “Mechanicsburg 5” as the they have come to be known on campus, have already returned to their jobs at NAVSUP, and pare preparing to start the program, April 1. Their academic journey will end when they graduate in March of 2016.
U.S. Navy photo by Javier Chagoya
Defense Analysis, Moroccan Security Professionals Talk Border Security
By Kenneth A. Stewart & Javier Chagoya
Assistant Professor Camber Warren, right, introduces the game of Info Chess to Moroccan border security officials attending the Land Border Security and Terrorism short course. The game of Info Chess is a chess variant designed to simulate the relationship between what is known and what remains unknown in conflict.
Moroccan Police Commissar Abdul Raheem traveled to the U.S. for the first time to attend the course.
“[Border security] is an important area of study for us,” said Raheem. “We are happy to be able to travel to U.S. to share ideas in a forum like this with our American counterparts.”
NPS Assistant Professor Heather Gregg is working the U.S. Department of State on the initiative.
“This is the continuation of a project that started last year. We want to be able to provide these fledgling democracies with resources to think about maritime and land security,” said Gregg. “We are working to improve interagency collaboration between the various ministries of our partner nations in North Africa.”
“We are also trying to facilitate an exchange of ideas between NPS professors and practitioners from these countries, it is a great opportunity for all of us,” continued Gregg.
By Kenneth A. Stewart & Javier Chagoya
Assistant Professor Camber Warren, right, introduces the game of Info Chess to Moroccan border security officials attending the Land Border Security and Terrorism short course. The game of Info Chess is a chess variant designed to simulate the relationship between what is known and what remains unknown in conflict.
Moroccan Police Commissar Abdul Raheem traveled to the U.S. for the first time to attend the course.
“[Border security] is an important area of study for us,” said Raheem. “We are happy to be able to travel to U.S. to share ideas in a forum like this with our American counterparts.”
NPS Assistant Professor Heather Gregg is working the U.S. Department of State on the initiative.
“This is the continuation of a project that started last year. We want to be able to provide these fledgling democracies with resources to think about maritime and land security,” said Gregg. “We are working to improve interagency collaboration between the various ministries of our partner nations in North Africa.”
“We are also trying to facilitate an exchange of ideas between NPS professors and practitioners from these countries, it is a great opportunity for all of us,” continued Gregg.
U.S. Navy photo by MCSN Michael Ehrlich
NPS Ranked Among Nation’s Top Graduate Programs
By MCSN Michael Ehrlich
Systems engineering students head toward to their department’s computer lab in Bullard Hall for a study break, March 14. The efforts of students like these, and the faculty who guide them, contributed to U.S. News and World Report (USNWR) ranking NPS’ systems engineering program as one of the top 20 graduate engineering programs in the country when they released their annual rankings, March 11.
“NPS is distinguished by its exclusive focus on national defense, and the quality of its faculty, staff and students,” said Department of Systems Engineering Professor Dr. David Olwell.
In a ranking of more than 1,300 graduate schools, NPS systems engineering program ranked 20th, GSBPP’s public administration program ranked 46th, and the computer science program came in 70th.
USNWR uses several factors which are standardized and weighted to create a scoring system, to rank each school. Some of the factors that contribute towards ranking include: graduate salary upon graduation; LSAT, GMAT, MCAT or GRE admission test scores; and surveys from subject matter experts.
By MCSN Michael Ehrlich
Systems engineering students head toward to their department’s computer lab in Bullard Hall for a study break, March 14. The efforts of students like these, and the faculty who guide them, contributed to U.S. News and World Report (USNWR) ranking NPS’ systems engineering program as one of the top 20 graduate engineering programs in the country when they released their annual rankings, March 11.
“NPS is distinguished by its exclusive focus on national defense, and the quality of its faculty, staff and students,” said Department of Systems Engineering Professor Dr. David Olwell.
In a ranking of more than 1,300 graduate schools, NPS systems engineering program ranked 20th, GSBPP’s public administration program ranked 46th, and the computer science program came in 70th.
USNWR uses several factors which are standardized and weighted to create a scoring system, to rank each school. Some of the factors that contribute towards ranking include: graduate salary upon graduation; LSAT, GMAT, MCAT or GRE admission test scores; and surveys from subject matter experts.
U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Danica M. Sirmans
NPS Property Management Leads Push to Complete School-wide Inventory Controls
By MC3 Danica M. Sirmans
NPS Property Manager Ronald Helmrick scans Defense Property Accountability System records as part of a school-wide inventory requirement, Mar. 14. With more than 21,000 government items under the management of 12,000 custodians at NPS, offices are urged to update their inventory lists to remain compliant with Navy directives while carrying out their respective missions.
In late 2013, with the release of NPS Instruction 11016.4E outlining the procedures for acquisition, control, accountability and disposal of property at NPS, Helmrick and his undermanned office went to work right away establishing a baseline inventory of all property at NPS.
“It is our task to update our inventories tri-annually, right now we are working to solidify the baseline inventory,” said Helmrick. “The purpose behind the inventory is the need to maintain government equipment as accountable stewards.”
Helmrick notes that the inventory process is about 60 percent complete.
“The majority of custodians are supporting this initiative,” said Helmrick. “There’s a small percentage in a number of the departments on campus that still have pending inventory lists, but once those requirements are met, we will be able to adjust our focus and move forward.”
Custodians are encouraged to submit inventory updates via e-mail to property@nps.edu or in hard-copy format to the Property Warehouse adjacent to the Del Monte Lake.
By MC3 Danica M. Sirmans
NPS Property Manager Ronald Helmrick scans Defense Property Accountability System records as part of a school-wide inventory requirement, Mar. 14. With more than 21,000 government items under the management of 12,000 custodians at NPS, offices are urged to update their inventory lists to remain compliant with Navy directives while carrying out their respective missions.
In late 2013, with the release of NPS Instruction 11016.4E outlining the procedures for acquisition, control, accountability and disposal of property at NPS, Helmrick and his undermanned office went to work right away establishing a baseline inventory of all property at NPS.
“It is our task to update our inventories tri-annually, right now we are working to solidify the baseline inventory,” said Helmrick. “The purpose behind the inventory is the need to maintain government equipment as accountable stewards.”
Helmrick notes that the inventory process is about 60 percent complete.
“The majority of custodians are supporting this initiative,” said Helmrick. “There’s a small percentage in a number of the departments on campus that still have pending inventory lists, but once those requirements are met, we will be able to adjust our focus and move forward.”
Custodians are encouraged to submit inventory updates via e-mail to property@nps.edu or in hard-copy format to the Property Warehouse adjacent to the Del Monte Lake.
Photo by MC2 Chablis J. Torrence
NPS President Continues Campus Outreach Initiative
By MC2 Chablis J. Torrence
Graduate School of Operational and Information Sciences (GSOIS) webmaster Ryan Stuart, standing, poses her question to NPS President, retired Vice Adm. Ronald A. Route during a campus communications session for GSOIS faculty and staff in Glasgow Hall, March 17.
The hour-long event provided the school’s staff and faculty with an opportunity for wide-ranging discussions on myriad issues relevant to current and future NPS operations, from travel authorizations to faculty publishing and much more.
“With each campus organization I visit, I continue to be impressed with the commitment and dedication of our faculty and staff … Our students are clearly in good hands,” said Route following the event. “Dean McCormick and Col. Emmons have been outstanding leaders and advocates for GSOIS, and I appreciate this time to answer important, insightful questions from their faculty and staff. I look forward to working with them, and our entire NPS team, as we turn our attention to our upcoming long-range strategic planning effort.”
Following next week’s graduation ceremonies and the start of the Spring 2014 quarter, Route will continue with additional campus outreach sessions to facilitate further communication between senior NPS leaders and university’s students, faculty and staff.
By MC2 Chablis J. Torrence
Graduate School of Operational and Information Sciences (GSOIS) webmaster Ryan Stuart, standing, poses her question to NPS President, retired Vice Adm. Ronald A. Route during a campus communications session for GSOIS faculty and staff in Glasgow Hall, March 17.
The hour-long event provided the school’s staff and faculty with an opportunity for wide-ranging discussions on myriad issues relevant to current and future NPS operations, from travel authorizations to faculty publishing and much more.
“With each campus organization I visit, I continue to be impressed with the commitment and dedication of our faculty and staff … Our students are clearly in good hands,” said Route following the event. “Dean McCormick and Col. Emmons have been outstanding leaders and advocates for GSOIS, and I appreciate this time to answer important, insightful questions from their faculty and staff. I look forward to working with them, and our entire NPS team, as we turn our attention to our upcoming long-range strategic planning effort.”
Following next week’s graduation ceremonies and the start of the Spring 2014 quarter, Route will continue with additional campus outreach sessions to facilitate further communication between senior NPS leaders and university’s students, faculty and staff.
U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Shawn J. Stewart
Outstanding Achievements Honored During Quarterly Award Ceremony
By MC2 Chablis J. Torrence
NPS students bow their heads in prayer during NPS’ Winter Quarter Awards Ceremony held in the Barbara McNitt Ballroom of Herrmann Hall, March 18. Seventeen students earned 20 awards, including the Outstanding Academic Achievement Award and the Superior Service Award.
Alana Tweed, an NPS Public Affairs Executive Assistant and Graduate School of Business and Public Policy (GSBPP) student, was among the awardees. Tweed received the NPS Outstanding Academic Achievement Award for Department of Defense (DOD) students.
“I am so thankful for the opportunity to study at NPS,” said Tweed. “I attribute my success to the excellent professors I’ve had over the past several years.”
Also recognized for excellence was Lt. Endia Mendez of the GSBPP Manpower Systems Analysis program. Mendez earned the Superior Service Award for her outstanding academic achievements, leadership and selfless service in support of her fellow classmates and community.
Mendez’s community service work includes a stint as Vice President of the Monterey chapter of the National Naval Officers Association and volunteer work for the Breakfast For Your Brain community study program. She is also an active member in the Combined Organized Scholarship Organization.
By MC2 Chablis J. Torrence
NPS students bow their heads in prayer during NPS’ Winter Quarter Awards Ceremony held in the Barbara McNitt Ballroom of Herrmann Hall, March 18. Seventeen students earned 20 awards, including the Outstanding Academic Achievement Award and the Superior Service Award.
Alana Tweed, an NPS Public Affairs Executive Assistant and Graduate School of Business and Public Policy (GSBPP) student, was among the awardees. Tweed received the NPS Outstanding Academic Achievement Award for Department of Defense (DOD) students.
“I am so thankful for the opportunity to study at NPS,” said Tweed. “I attribute my success to the excellent professors I’ve had over the past several years.”
Also recognized for excellence was Lt. Endia Mendez of the GSBPP Manpower Systems Analysis program. Mendez earned the Superior Service Award for her outstanding academic achievements, leadership and selfless service in support of her fellow classmates and community.
Mendez’s community service work includes a stint as Vice President of the Monterey chapter of the National Naval Officers Association and volunteer work for the Breakfast For Your Brain community study program. She is also an active member in the Combined Organized Scholarship Organization.
U.S. Navy photo by Kenneth A. Stewart
NPS Professor Awarded Fulbright Senior Scholar Award
By Kenneth A. Stewart
NPS Department of Information Sciences Associate Professor Alexander Bordetsky, left, gives directions to Coast Guard personnel during a maritime interdiction exercise in the San Francisco Bay last Summer. Bordetsky was recently awarded a prestigious Fulbright Senior Scholar award, which he will use in conjunction with faculty at the Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, to explore complex, satellite-based, information architectures and networks.
“Our general objective is to develop a unique distributed laboratory between NPS and Technion to allow for joint experimental studies in an emerging frontier – small, satellite-based, global, self-organizing mobile networks,” said Bordetsky.
Bordetsky hopes to be able to use the lab to collaborate over vast geographic spaces without the limitations imposed by more traditional laboratories and field sites. He likens the proposed concept to a “lab-based social network.”
The announcement of Bordetsky’s Fulbright award was made by the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board (FSB). The 12-member, presidentially-appointed board allocates congressionally-appropriated funds along with donor funds from partner countries and the private sector.
Since the Fulbright program’s inception more than 60 years ago, some 300,000 Fulbright alumni have become, amongst other things, heads of state, judges, ambassadors and cabinet ministers and have been awarded 43 Nobel Prizes.
By Kenneth A. Stewart
NPS Department of Information Sciences Associate Professor Alexander Bordetsky, left, gives directions to Coast Guard personnel during a maritime interdiction exercise in the San Francisco Bay last Summer. Bordetsky was recently awarded a prestigious Fulbright Senior Scholar award, which he will use in conjunction with faculty at the Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, to explore complex, satellite-based, information architectures and networks.
“Our general objective is to develop a unique distributed laboratory between NPS and Technion to allow for joint experimental studies in an emerging frontier – small, satellite-based, global, self-organizing mobile networks,” said Bordetsky.
Bordetsky hopes to be able to use the lab to collaborate over vast geographic spaces without the limitations imposed by more traditional laboratories and field sites. He likens the proposed concept to a “lab-based social network.”
The announcement of Bordetsky’s Fulbright award was made by the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board (FSB). The 12-member, presidentially-appointed board allocates congressionally-appropriated funds along with donor funds from partner countries and the private sector.
Since the Fulbright program’s inception more than 60 years ago, some 300,000 Fulbright alumni have become, amongst other things, heads of state, judges, ambassadors and cabinet ministers and have been awarded 43 Nobel Prizes.
U.S. Navy Photo by Javier Chagoya
Manpower Systems Analysis Students Brief Research Back to Navy Leadership
By MC3 Michael Ehrlich
Manpower, Personnel, Training and Education (MPT&E) Thesis Day presenters pose for a group photo outside Ingersoll Hall, March 18. MPT&E Thesis Day gives NPS students a platform to present their research to senior Navy personnel, including Chief of Naval Personnel Vice Adm. William Moran, who participated in the event via video teleconference.
Traditionally, students completing the manpower systems analysis (MSA) program focus on the analytical examination of military recruiting, training and scholastic matters. Lt. Adam Turpin was asked to present his thesis on the predictive power of the Tailored Adaptive Personality Assessment System (TAPOS) on Navy recruit attrition.
“Studying these issues enhances the Navy’s mission immensely,” said Turpin. “The better we understand retention, recruiting and training, the better we will be at developing Sailors of the highest caliber.”
According to Turpin, writing his thesis led to a broader understanding of human resources as it relates to the military.
“I found it interesting how recruiting, manpower planning, and training are all components of a machine manufactured to help choose the right people, at the right time, and then turn them into well-trained Sailors,” said Turpin. “Human resources doesn’t always get the spotlight, but a good education is a desired attribute for that particular position, and NPS certainly provides that.”
By MC3 Michael Ehrlich
Manpower, Personnel, Training and Education (MPT&E) Thesis Day presenters pose for a group photo outside Ingersoll Hall, March 18. MPT&E Thesis Day gives NPS students a platform to present their research to senior Navy personnel, including Chief of Naval Personnel Vice Adm. William Moran, who participated in the event via video teleconference.
Traditionally, students completing the manpower systems analysis (MSA) program focus on the analytical examination of military recruiting, training and scholastic matters. Lt. Adam Turpin was asked to present his thesis on the predictive power of the Tailored Adaptive Personality Assessment System (TAPOS) on Navy recruit attrition.
“Studying these issues enhances the Navy’s mission immensely,” said Turpin. “The better we understand retention, recruiting and training, the better we will be at developing Sailors of the highest caliber.”
According to Turpin, writing his thesis led to a broader understanding of human resources as it relates to the military.
“I found it interesting how recruiting, manpower planning, and training are all components of a machine manufactured to help choose the right people, at the right time, and then turn them into well-trained Sailors,” said Turpin. “Human resources doesn’t always get the spotlight, but a good education is a desired attribute for that particular position, and NPS certainly provides that.”
Photo by MC2 Chablis J. Torrence
Naval War College Monterey Graduates 58th Class
By MC2 Shawn J. Stewart
The 58th graduating class of the Naval War College (NWC) Monterey program assembles for a group portrait on the steps of Herrmann Hall, March 20. The graduates earned their Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) Phase I Certification in partnership with NPS.
NPS President retired Vice Adm. Ronald A. Route and NWC Monterey Chairman Professor Fred Drake presided over the ceremony honoring 81 U.S. Navy, Army, Air Force and Marine Corps students as they received their NWC Command and Staff diploma. The NWC Monterey program, in partnership with NPS, has graduated over 3,500 students seeking certification since the program’s inception in 1999.
JPME certifications were established as a requirement for all aspiring joint staff officers, and were created to fulfill the need for effective cooperation between all branches of the U.S. military.
By MC2 Shawn J. Stewart
The 58th graduating class of the Naval War College (NWC) Monterey program assembles for a group portrait on the steps of Herrmann Hall, March 20. The graduates earned their Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) Phase I Certification in partnership with NPS.
NPS President retired Vice Adm. Ronald A. Route and NWC Monterey Chairman Professor Fred Drake presided over the ceremony honoring 81 U.S. Navy, Army, Air Force and Marine Corps students as they received their NWC Command and Staff diploma. The NWC Monterey program, in partnership with NPS, has graduated over 3,500 students seeking certification since the program’s inception in 1999.
JPME certifications were established as a requirement for all aspiring joint staff officers, and were created to fulfill the need for effective cooperation between all branches of the U.S. military.
Photo by MC2 Shawn J. Stewart
Navy Installation Command’s NFAAS System Update Deadline Nears
By MC2 Chablis J. Torrence
An NPS civilian employee logs in to the Navy Family Accountability and Assessment System (NFAAS) to update and verify his personal and dependent contact information, March 21. NFAAS provides valuable information to all levels of the Navy chain of command, assisting in all aspects of the recovery process for personnel and their families in the event of a widespread catastrophe or natural disaster.
Accurate contact information helps to “account, assess, manage and monitor the recovery process” of personnel and family members in affected areas and/or scattered by a devastating event, the NFAAS website says. Per NAVADMIN 039/14, the semi-annual verification period for all personnel comes to an end March 31, 2014.
“The Navy Family Accountability and Assessment System is about leaning forward, not waiting for tragedy to strike,” said incoming Command Admin Officer Lt. Jerry Cannon. “Everyone in uniform is required to update this information, but we also highly encourage our civilian colleagues to update their information as well should a significant event occur. No one can predict when a disaster will happen, but by working together we can ensure every possible mitigation and preparation measure has been taken.”
For more information, login to the Navy Family Accountability and Assessment System (NFAAS) website at https://navyfamily.navy.mil.
By MC2 Chablis J. Torrence
An NPS civilian employee logs in to the Navy Family Accountability and Assessment System (NFAAS) to update and verify his personal and dependent contact information, March 21. NFAAS provides valuable information to all levels of the Navy chain of command, assisting in all aspects of the recovery process for personnel and their families in the event of a widespread catastrophe or natural disaster.
Accurate contact information helps to “account, assess, manage and monitor the recovery process” of personnel and family members in affected areas and/or scattered by a devastating event, the NFAAS website says. Per NAVADMIN 039/14, the semi-annual verification period for all personnel comes to an end March 31, 2014.
“The Navy Family Accountability and Assessment System is about leaning forward, not waiting for tragedy to strike,” said incoming Command Admin Officer Lt. Jerry Cannon. “Everyone in uniform is required to update this information, but we also highly encourage our civilian colleagues to update their information as well should a significant event occur. No one can predict when a disaster will happen, but by working together we can ensure every possible mitigation and preparation measure has been taken.”
For more information, login to the Navy Family Accountability and Assessment System (NFAAS) website at https://navyfamily.navy.mil.
U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Mark P. Langford
Former NPS Student Meets the Result of His Bone Marrow Donation
Courtesy Navy Recruiting Command Public Affairs
Lt. Eric Priest, right, and Phil Jones, left, review memoirs in Priest’s home in Millington, Tenn. after meeting for the first time, March 8, nearly two years following the bone marrow transplant that added years to Jones’ life.
Registered with the C.W. Bill Young DOD Marrow Donor Program, Priest was a student in the NPS mechanical engineering program when he learned he might be the perfect match for a potential recipient.
Jones, the patient on the receiving end, was a 75-year-old man that had been diagnosed with myelodysplasia, a blood-related medical condition that effects the development of specific blood cells caused by progressive bone marrow failure.
“When I was diagnosed, I was only given 1.5 years to live and Medicare does not cover transplants for individuals over 65 years old,” said Jones, who eventually found a hospital willing to perform the procedure. The H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute in Tampa, Fla., agreed to perform the transplant as part of a government grant designed to collect data on older patients receiving transplants.
Almost exactly one year after the procedure, both Priest and Jones signed consent to release their information to each other and it didn’t take long for Priest to receive a letter from the man who now carries around his bone marrow. When Jones and his wife met Priest and his family at their home in Millington, both families spent time connecting and sharing each other’s stories and experiences of the process.
“This was another way for me to serve others,” said Priest. “I’d do it again in a heartbeat.”
For more information about the C.W. Bill Young Department of Defense Marrow Donor Program, visit www.salutetolife.org.
Courtesy Navy Recruiting Command Public Affairs
Lt. Eric Priest, right, and Phil Jones, left, review memoirs in Priest’s home in Millington, Tenn. after meeting for the first time, March 8, nearly two years following the bone marrow transplant that added years to Jones’ life.
Registered with the C.W. Bill Young DOD Marrow Donor Program, Priest was a student in the NPS mechanical engineering program when he learned he might be the perfect match for a potential recipient.
Jones, the patient on the receiving end, was a 75-year-old man that had been diagnosed with myelodysplasia, a blood-related medical condition that effects the development of specific blood cells caused by progressive bone marrow failure.
“When I was diagnosed, I was only given 1.5 years to live and Medicare does not cover transplants for individuals over 65 years old,” said Jones, who eventually found a hospital willing to perform the procedure. The H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute in Tampa, Fla., agreed to perform the transplant as part of a government grant designed to collect data on older patients receiving transplants.
Almost exactly one year after the procedure, both Priest and Jones signed consent to release their information to each other and it didn’t take long for Priest to receive a letter from the man who now carries around his bone marrow. When Jones and his wife met Priest and his family at their home in Millington, both families spent time connecting and sharing each other’s stories and experiences of the process.
“This was another way for me to serve others,” said Priest. “I’d do it again in a heartbeat.”
For more information about the C.W. Bill Young Department of Defense Marrow Donor Program, visit www.salutetolife.org.
U.S. Navy photo by Javier Chagoya
Littoral Operations Center Kicks-Off Inaugural Event
By Kenneth A. Stewart
NPS Littoral Operations Center Director Dr. Kalev Sepp addresses an international group of leading littoral warfare experts during the Littoral Operations Center’s inaugural Wargame Planning Session at Reed Hall, March 25. Session participants were seeking to set the conditions under which future littoral operations wargaming and planning will be conducted.
According to Sepp, littoral operations take place in the cluttered, population dense coastal areas where some 80 percent of the world’s population resides.
“The littorals are the near shore areas where hydrography, geography, commerce, fishing, mining, boundaries, maneuver and sustainment issues converge, complicating both the offense and the defense and placing exceptional demands on naval, aerial and land forces that must operate, fight and influence events there,” said Sepp.
Sepp and his colleagues brought together veteran littoral operations experts from the U.S., Swedish and Indonesian Navies as well as industry and academic experts interested in exploring solutions to challenges in littoral areas of operation.
“We are here today to develop the focus, data and issues for NPS operational wargaming for joint and combined expeditionary and security-operations focused littoral scenarios, and also to prepare NPS for inclusion in Naval War College’s wargaming, at sea exercises and experimentation,” said Sepp.
Session organizers hope that the wargames and research questions developed in the planning session will lead to enhanced Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) strategy, tactics and design and that they will aid the center in its efforts to conduct and promote the study of U.S. Navy and allied partner littoral operations.
By Kenneth A. Stewart
NPS Littoral Operations Center Director Dr. Kalev Sepp addresses an international group of leading littoral warfare experts during the Littoral Operations Center’s inaugural Wargame Planning Session at Reed Hall, March 25. Session participants were seeking to set the conditions under which future littoral operations wargaming and planning will be conducted.
According to Sepp, littoral operations take place in the cluttered, population dense coastal areas where some 80 percent of the world’s population resides.
“The littorals are the near shore areas where hydrography, geography, commerce, fishing, mining, boundaries, maneuver and sustainment issues converge, complicating both the offense and the defense and placing exceptional demands on naval, aerial and land forces that must operate, fight and influence events there,” said Sepp.
Sepp and his colleagues brought together veteran littoral operations experts from the U.S., Swedish and Indonesian Navies as well as industry and academic experts interested in exploring solutions to challenges in littoral areas of operation.
“We are here today to develop the focus, data and issues for NPS operational wargaming for joint and combined expeditionary and security-operations focused littoral scenarios, and also to prepare NPS for inclusion in Naval War College’s wargaming, at sea exercises and experimentation,” said Sepp.
Session organizers hope that the wargames and research questions developed in the planning session will lead to enhanced Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) strategy, tactics and design and that they will aid the center in its efforts to conduct and promote the study of U.S. Navy and allied partner littoral operations.
U.S. Navy photo by Javier Chagoya
Robo Ethics 2014 Takes the Debate to the Naval Commander
By Javier Chagoya
A diverse panel of leading thinkers in the field of ethics and robotic systems, led by NPS Department of Defense Analysis Assistant Professor Dr. Bradley Strawser, shown center, participate in the Robo Ethics 2014 debate in San Diego, Calif., March 24.
NPS students, along with students and faculty from the Naval Academy and personnel from the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Panama City, Fla. also participated in the debate via live video-teleconference (VTC).
“The diversity of backgrounds, experiences and disciplines on the panel was great … Having that breadth of insight across channels was an excellent way to convey the many difficulties and ethical conundrums a future commander will face with this newly-emerging technology,” said Strawser.
Panelists were asked to envision a futuristic scenario where an escalating series of events leads to war. Newly-appointed Senior Advisor for Military Professionalism Rear Adm. Peg Klein participated via VTC from Washington, D.C. Klein was asked to weigh the need to deploy unmanned and manned systems during the notional crisis, while audience members also weighed in and contributed questions and insights into the scenario.
Strawser, who has written extensively on the ethical implications of unmanned systems, discussed the continue need to debate morality in relation to robotic systems.
“The future of robotics technology and unmanned systems complicates the moral decisions future commanders will have to make on several orders of magnitude. Asking these tough question today, will help prepare our future leaders tomorrow,” said Strawser.
By Javier Chagoya
A diverse panel of leading thinkers in the field of ethics and robotic systems, led by NPS Department of Defense Analysis Assistant Professor Dr. Bradley Strawser, shown center, participate in the Robo Ethics 2014 debate in San Diego, Calif., March 24.
NPS students, along with students and faculty from the Naval Academy and personnel from the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Panama City, Fla. also participated in the debate via live video-teleconference (VTC).
“The diversity of backgrounds, experiences and disciplines on the panel was great … Having that breadth of insight across channels was an excellent way to convey the many difficulties and ethical conundrums a future commander will face with this newly-emerging technology,” said Strawser.
Panelists were asked to envision a futuristic scenario where an escalating series of events leads to war. Newly-appointed Senior Advisor for Military Professionalism Rear Adm. Peg Klein participated via VTC from Washington, D.C. Klein was asked to weigh the need to deploy unmanned and manned systems during the notional crisis, while audience members also weighed in and contributed questions and insights into the scenario.
Strawser, who has written extensively on the ethical implications of unmanned systems, discussed the continue need to debate morality in relation to robotic systems.
“The future of robotics technology and unmanned systems complicates the moral decisions future commanders will have to make on several orders of magnitude. Asking these tough question today, will help prepare our future leaders tomorrow,” said Strawser.
U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Chablis Torrence
NPS Honors Winter Graduates
MONTEREY, Calif. – The Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) honored 316 students from 23 nations earning 323 advanced graduate degrees at its Winter Quarter Commencement, March 28.
Presiding over the ceremony was NPS President retired Vice Adm. Ronald A. Route, who welcomed graduates and their families. NPS Provost Dr. Douglas A. Hensler offered the keynote address.
“NPS is the very best graduate university in our field,” said Hensler, “There is no one else that does what we do, and the value that we bring to our nation’s defense and peace keeping is immeasurable.”
Hensler offered numerous examples that demonstrate how NPS student and faculty led research have saved millions of dollars in areas ranging from alternative energy development to materials research and computer science, but he also focused on the less quantifiable aspects of an NPS education.
“Weapons in support of a war fighting and peace keeping machine are the physical infrastructure of the Navy,” said Hensler, “While NPS contributes to the development of that physical infrastructure; our domain is in the realm of intellectual capital.”
Hensler encouraged the graduating class to employ their intellectual capital to the betterment of their respective nations and wished them success in their future careers.
MONTEREY, Calif. – The Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) honored 316 students from 23 nations earning 323 advanced graduate degrees at its Winter Quarter Commencement, March 28.
Presiding over the ceremony was NPS President retired Vice Adm. Ronald A. Route, who welcomed graduates and their families. NPS Provost Dr. Douglas A. Hensler offered the keynote address.
“NPS is the very best graduate university in our field,” said Hensler, “There is no one else that does what we do, and the value that we bring to our nation’s defense and peace keeping is immeasurable.”
Hensler offered numerous examples that demonstrate how NPS student and faculty led research have saved millions of dollars in areas ranging from alternative energy development to materials research and computer science, but he also focused on the less quantifiable aspects of an NPS education.
“Weapons in support of a war fighting and peace keeping machine are the physical infrastructure of the Navy,” said Hensler, “While NPS contributes to the development of that physical infrastructure; our domain is in the realm of intellectual capital.”
Hensler encouraged the graduating class to employ their intellectual capital to the betterment of their respective nations and wished them success in their future careers.
Photo by MC2 Shawn J. Stewart
Wounded Warrior Passes Campus in Ride Across America
By MC2 Shawn J. Stewart
Wounded Warrior and former Marine Combat Engineer retired Lance Cpl. Robert Jones is joined by the NPS Cycling Club as he passes an assembly of NPS students, civilian supporters and media, March 31. Jones’ ride across America, dubbed “Rob Jones’ Journey,” is an effort to secure over $1 million in support of Coalition to Salute America's Heroes, The Semper Fi Fund, and Ride 2 Recovery charities.
“It’s an incredible opportunity to honor what he has done so far,” said Marine spouse and “Rob Jones’ Journey” supporter Melissa Gogues. “It takes a lot of courage and stamina to do what Rob has done, and to see the amount of support he has gotten throughout his journey has been amazing.”
Jones will pass through Big Sur, Ragged Point and Morro Bay in the next few days as he inches toward the end of his journey, San Diego.
Jones lost both of his legs after being hit by an improvised explosive device (IED) during a deployment to Afghanistan in 2010. Since then, Jones has competed in the 2012 London Paralympics where he won a Bronze Medal and in the 2013 World Rowing Championships in Seoul, South Korea.
By MC2 Shawn J. Stewart
Wounded Warrior and former Marine Combat Engineer retired Lance Cpl. Robert Jones is joined by the NPS Cycling Club as he passes an assembly of NPS students, civilian supporters and media, March 31. Jones’ ride across America, dubbed “Rob Jones’ Journey,” is an effort to secure over $1 million in support of Coalition to Salute America's Heroes, The Semper Fi Fund, and Ride 2 Recovery charities.
“It’s an incredible opportunity to honor what he has done so far,” said Marine spouse and “Rob Jones’ Journey” supporter Melissa Gogues. “It takes a lot of courage and stamina to do what Rob has done, and to see the amount of support he has gotten throughout his journey has been amazing.”
Jones will pass through Big Sur, Ragged Point and Morro Bay in the next few days as he inches toward the end of his journey, San Diego.
Jones lost both of his legs after being hit by an improvised explosive device (IED) during a deployment to Afghanistan in 2010. Since then, Jones has competed in the 2012 London Paralympics where he won a Bronze Medal and in the 2013 World Rowing Championships in Seoul, South Korea.
U.S. Navy photo by Javier Chagoya
Staff Council Celebrates Latest Group of Lean Six Sigma Graduates
By Javier Chagoya
Graduating students from the latest Lean Six Sigma (LSS) course stand for a class photo in the Graduate School of Business and Public Policy conference room during a graduation and certificate presentation ceremony, March 20. A total of 14 NPS staff earned LSS certification by completing the 30-hour program this past quarter.
Financial Analyst Bardomina Lopez and Librarian Thomas Doughty, both with NPS’ Dudley Knox Library, went the extra mile by completing the two supervised group projects required for full LSS Green Belt certification.
“The Lean Six Sigma library projects that Tom and I worked on included the book acquisition process and hardware/software management,” said Lopez. “By using the DMAIC [define, measure, analyze, improve, control] methodology, we defined the problem, measured the data, analyzed the process, improved the process, and created a control plan.”
“LSS provides a methodology and template for us to analyze some of our library acquisitions processes dependent on both internal and external factors so we could simplify and streamline these complicated processes,” added Doughty. “An important goal for the library is to expediently and effectively meet and satisfy user needs and requests; LSS enables us to make this goal achievable.”
Lean Six Sigma certification courses are made available periodically to university staff members by the NPS Staff Council.
By Javier Chagoya
Graduating students from the latest Lean Six Sigma (LSS) course stand for a class photo in the Graduate School of Business and Public Policy conference room during a graduation and certificate presentation ceremony, March 20. A total of 14 NPS staff earned LSS certification by completing the 30-hour program this past quarter.
Financial Analyst Bardomina Lopez and Librarian Thomas Doughty, both with NPS’ Dudley Knox Library, went the extra mile by completing the two supervised group projects required for full LSS Green Belt certification.
“The Lean Six Sigma library projects that Tom and I worked on included the book acquisition process and hardware/software management,” said Lopez. “By using the DMAIC [define, measure, analyze, improve, control] methodology, we defined the problem, measured the data, analyzed the process, improved the process, and created a control plan.”
“LSS provides a methodology and template for us to analyze some of our library acquisitions processes dependent on both internal and external factors so we could simplify and streamline these complicated processes,” added Doughty. “An important goal for the library is to expediently and effectively meet and satisfy user needs and requests; LSS enables us to make this goal achievable.”
Lean Six Sigma certification courses are made available periodically to university staff members by the NPS Staff Council.