NSA Naples Recognizes College Graduates

June 14, 2013 (NNS) -- In an official 2013 Graduation Recognition Ceremony hosted by the Naples' Navy College Office, 61 service members and civilians were recognized as graduating with higher-level degrees at the base theater on Naval Support Activity (NSA) Naples, June 14.

The all-encompassing graduation ceremony recognized students for having received diplomas during the 2012 and 2013 academic calendar year from an array of accredited higher-level educational institutions both on base and in the U.S. The degrees conferred during the ceremony included associate, bachelor's and master's degrees.

The ceremony, held to recognize students' hard work and dedication, honored 61 graduates during the processional, but the program recognized all 160 Naples-area graduates. All services were represented at the graduation, as well as civilian employees and family members.

Capt. Scott Gray, commanding officer of NSA Naples, presented the welcoming remarks.

"Going to school while having a full-time job and perhaps juggling the requirements of a family is no easy task, so congratulations, this is the beginning of a whole new world of opportunities," commented Gray.

Master-at-Arms 1st Class Eugene Scott, attached to NSA Security, is an example of someone who has used his time in Naples to his benefit. Scott is graduating with his Associate's of Applied Science in Criminal Justice from Central Texas College. Scott's wife was also recognized for graduating with her bachelor's degree. Both have been in Naples for about two and a half years, taking advantage of the time by working on their education.

"It's been a long time coming," remarked Scott. "I've taken 2 to 3 courses per semester and it's finally paying off."

Keynote speaker Javier Miyares, president of the worldwide University of Maryland University College program, reminded graduates of the importance of their college education through his own story of success and fulfillment in education.

"Higher education opens the doors of opportunity and the impact of higher education can be far-reaching," said Miyares.

After the ceremony, the graduates had an opportunity to enjoy refreshments and mingle with co-workers, family members and friends at a graduation reception.

For more news from Naval Support Activity Naples, visit www.navy.mil/local/nsanaples/.