Public Health graduate commissioned as U.S. Air Force Second Lieutenant
On May 12, Kaleigh Moss, Class of 2023 graduate of the West Virginia University School of Public Health, was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force, along with 15 fellow cadets.
Her first salute during the commissioning ceremony, held by the Air Force ROTC Detachment 915, was to the person who served as her mentor during her time as an enlisted member at the 911th Airlift Wing in Pittsburgh.
“My first salute was John Fowler, who serves as an aircraft electrical and environmental technician on C-17s at the 911th Airlift Wing,” Lieutenant Moss said. “During my time as an enlisted member, he taught me about being an excellent aircraft maintainer by displaying the core values of the Air Force. He best exemplifies the core value service before self. Fowler's top priority is ensuring the mission is successful.”
Moss’s twin brother, also a May graduate (Middlebury College, bachelor’s in art history), along with her mother, participated in her pinning ceremony.
As a next step for Moss, who walked the commencement stage later that same day to receive her B.S. in Public Health, she’ll be working as an airfield operation officer.
“I’ll be managing radar systems, weather systems, airfield maintenance and air traffic control,” she explained.
Alongside her new assignment, she also plans to continue her education, crediting Steve Davis, associate professor in Health Policy, Management and Leadership, for her decision.
“Dr. Steve Davis’ project management class has inspired me to pursue a master’s degree in project management at George Washington University,” Moss said.
When it comes to doling out her own inspiration, she shares the following wisdom with students set to follow in her footsteps.
“Talk to your teachers! All my professors have been wonderful and supportive,” she said. “They can’t help you if you don’t communicate to them.”
Learn more about 2d Lt. Moss and her field placement with Girls on the Run and visit the School of Public Health’s website to learn more about its undergraduate programs.
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CONTACT: Nikky Luna, Director of Marketing and Communications
WVU School of Public Health
304.293.1699; nikky.luna@hsc.wvu.edu