Executive Summary
This document outlines the Naval Postgraduate School's September 2026 commencement ceremony, highlighting the academic achievements of military and international students. It details the leadership, faculty, and specific research areas, including military applications of optimization and various security studies programs. The ceremony celebrates graduates contributing to defense and national security across diverse fields.
Why It Matters
This document provides insight into the educational priorities and international collaborations of a key U.S. defense institution, revealing areas of focus for future military leadership and technological advancement.
Key Takeaways
- The Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) conducts advanced research in military applications of optimization, including critical infrastructure defense and ballistic missile defense.
Source evidence · PDF page 8
His research and teaching have included network optimization, large-scale optimization, linear and integer programming, and network interdiction and defense. He has received funding in support of research and student thesis work in military applications of optimization, including attack and defense of critical infrastructure, delaying adversaries’ large industrial projects and weapons programs, theater ballistic missile defense, sensor mix and deployment, naval logistics, and Navy mission planning.
- The graduating class includes international military officers, notably from Ukraine, highlighting NPS's role in fostering international defense cooperation and expertise.
Source evidence · PDF page 15
COL Valerii Hordiichuk, Armed Forces of Ukraine NPS Outstanding Academic Achievement Award for International Student COL Valerii Hordiichuk, Armed Forces of Ukraine International Student Award for Excellence in Regional Security Studies COL Valerii Hordiichuk, Armed Forces of Ukraine
- NPS offers specialized Master of Arts programs in Security Studies focusing on critical geopolitical regions like East Asia, Indo-Pacific, Europe, Eurasia, and the Middle East.
Source evidence · PDF page 24
Master of Arts in Security Studies (East Asia and the Indo-Pacific) LCDR Andrea K. Cornett, USN LT Simeon J. Fritz, USN LT Matthew W. Ross, USN MAJ Tyra Takieddine, USA *Capt Charles Akerblom, USMC *Capt Matthew D. Tussing, USMC Maj Ongsa Ektanitphong, USAF *Maj Daniel R. Hughes, USAF Master of Arts in Security Studies (Europe and Eurasia) LT Aaron B. Jorgensen, USN ★ *Capt Riley E. McFarlin, USMC
Strategic Relevance
The Naval Postgraduate School's curriculum and research directly support U.S. national security objectives by developing advanced military capabilities, fostering international partnerships, and educating future defense leaders in critical strategic areas.