ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. – Rear Adm. John “Jay” Vann, commander of the Fifth Coast Guard District, attended the Elizabeth City State University Vikings final home game against the Bowie State University Bulldogs Saturday, where he kicked off the game by conducting the official coin toss.
As part of the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Coast Guard Pathways Program, Vann serves as the Executive Champion for ECSU’s College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative (CSPI). As the Executive Champion, Vann has the authority to select one student each year for the CSPI program.
“ECSU has been a fantastic partner in creating a pathway for college students to transition into the Coast Guard, enriching our military’s diversity and enhancing our mission effectiveness,” said Master Chief Petty Officer Ann Logan, the command master chief of Fifth Coast Guard District. “The strength of the Coast Guard lies in its personnel. We are a diverse and inclusive organization that stands out as the leading maritime life-saving force globally.”
CSPI is designed for college juniors and seniors who demonstrate academic and leadership excellence and have a desire to serve in the Coast Guard. Chosen candidates become active-duty Coast Guard members with the rank of officer trainee, receiving E-3 pay grade benefits, which include salary, healthcare, and coverage for tuition, books, and fees. After graduation, CSPI scholars proceed to the Coast Guard’s 17-week Officer Candidate School.
This program continues to foster a collaborative relationship between the Coast Guard and ECSU to enhance opportunities for students from Minority Serving Institutions. ECSU also joined the Coast Guard’s Auxiliary University Program earlier this year, becoming the first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) to do so, providing students with unique opportunities for engagement.
ECSU also offers a mentorship program for aviation students to work alongside the Coast Guard in Elizabeth City, considered to be the hub of Coast Guard Aviation, where nearly half of the students participate. Pilots from the air station serve as guest lecturers, provide tours, and develop training scenarios for Emergency Management students.
The relationship between ECSU and the Coast Guard continues to grow through the CSPI program, encouraging college students with diverse backgrounds to positively contribute to the culture and missions of the Coast Guard.
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