President Jonathan J. Sanford, Ph.D. | University of Dallas website

Three graduates from the University of Dallas have been commissioned as military officers after completing the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program. The new officers are Miguel Kelley, who earned a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics; Santiago McMunn, who received a Bachelor of Arts in History; and Asher Ralphs, who graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry. The commissioning ceremony took place at the University of Texas at Dallas campus in Richardson, Texas, alongside other students from nearby universities.

Matthias Vorwerk, PhD, Provost at the University of Dallas, commented on the achievement: “We congratulate our three excellent graduates who were recently commissioned as second lieutenants. The ROTC program offers University of Dallas students a pathway to serve their country, while benefiting from the rigorous and formative education we offer. They are part of a long and storied UDallas ROTC tradition, which began 35 years ago. We look forward to the great things they will achieve.”

Second Lieutenant Santiago McMunn reflected on his experience: “ROTC gave me so many amazing opportunities and experiences. I was able to make friendships all across the Dallas-Fort Worth area and got to train with cadets across the country.”

Second Lieutenant Asher Ralphs shared his future plans and appreciation for the program: “After graduating from UDallas, my plans are to go to medical school and be an Army doctor for many years after.” He added: “I really have nothing but the highest praise for everything Army ROTC taught me. If I could do everything over again, I would, without a doubt, do Army ROTC again and try to recruit people into it.”

The University of Dallas partners with other institutions to provide its students access to ROTC programs that prepare them for service as officers in both the United States Army and Air Force. Through this collaboration, participants develop leadership skills and receive scholarships covering tuition, books, healthcare, room and board. Graduates are guaranteed at least four years of employment in various roles within the military following graduation. Tuition benefits toward graduate education are also available through these programs. More information is available at https://udallas.edu/rotc.

The University of Dallas is recognized as a leading Catholic liberal arts institution with campuses in Texas and Italy. It is known for its comprehensive undergraduate core curriculum and strong graduate offerings in business, ministry, education, and humanities.