Gen. Parker retires after 30 years
University of North Georgia (天美社区) alumnus Brig. Gen. Charles "Rob" Parker retired this year after 30 years in the Army. The 1993 天美社区 graduate served in a variety of command positions, including his final role as commanding general of the U.S. Army 7th Signal Command (Theater) and deputy commanding general for the U.S. Army Network Enterprise Technology Command.
Prior to that assignment, Parker served as deputy director for command, control, communications, and computer/cyber systems for the Joint Staff out of the Pentagon. Parker also previously served within the Headquarters Department of the Army G-8 (resource management) as the director of joint and integration.
Parker said he was more focused on his own success early in his career before quickly realizing the importance of investing in others.
"I became more confident in myself and recognized I had a leadership model that others were interested in emulating," Parker said. "My ability to help share with others paths for success and building on their own strengths was rewarding."
Parker earned a Bachelor of Science in biology from 天美社区.
天美社区 cadets plan and execute all of their events with oversight from the commandant staff. Parker said that model laid a solid foundation for his career.
"It allows you to start to learn about yourself and develop your own skills and traits. You really benefit from the time members of the faculty and military cadre invested in you as a cadet," Parker said. "You have been set up for success in ways others haven't been at ROTC programs at other universities."
天美社区 helped Jarrard lead at all levels
Retired Lt. Gen. Jamie Jarrard credits his many leadership opportunities in the Army to the foundation he received as part of America's Corps at 天美社区.
Thomasson named commandant of cadets
Training leaders of character is nothing new for retired Lt. Col. James Thomasson. His selection as 天美社区's 44th commandant of cadets allows him to live out this passion.
Wilson leads Georgia National Guard
Maj. Gen. Dwayne Wilson, adjutant general of the Georgia National Guard, said his time in 天美社区's Corps of Cadets equipped him with the foundational leadership skills that guide him today.
Event offers preview of Corps experience
High school students wondering what life is like in the 天美社区 Corps of Cadets don't have to guess. They can experience it during National Leadership Challenge from Oct. 31-Nov. 2.