CAMP HUMPHREYS, Republic of Korea — Between early morning formations, field exercises and the demanding operational tempo of serving in the Republic of Korea, finding time to earn a college degree might seem nearly impossible. Yet at the Joint College Recognition Ceremony on Sept. 3, 2026, caps and gowns replaced uniforms as service members walked across the stage to celebrate a major milestone.
A total of 223 graduates, including 24 Soldiers from the 2nd Infantry Division/ROK-U.S. Combined Division, were recognized during the annual ceremony at Camp Humphreys. The event brought together service members, civilians and families from more than 65 universities to celebrate degrees ranging from associate to master’s levels. For the Warrior Division, the ceremony underscored a simple reality of military service: opportunities exist, but Soldiers must choose to pursue them.
“What I want junior Soldiers to remember is that everyone gets the same amount of time each day,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Jason D. Rivera, senior enlisted advisor for the 2nd Infantry Division Artillery. “What matters is how we choose to use it. The effort we put into hobbies could also go toward furthering our education.” Rivera, who earned a Master of Science in leadership from Trident University International while managing operational responsibilities in the division, said he wanted to show his team and his children that personal growth never stops, regardless of rank. “Reaching this academic milestone shows the same mental strength and discipline that define Soldiers serving in the Republic of Korea,” Rivera said. “Pursuing higher education demonstrates our commitment to self-improvement and excellence, which are central to the Warrior Division’s values.” The ceremony also reflected a broader trend across the force as more service members use military education benefits while deployed overseas. Cindy Hastings, an education services specialist and Basic Skills Education Program manager at the Camp Humphreys Army Education Center, said the annual event has grown significantly in recent years.
“When we started, we had about 30 participants,” Hastings said. “Two years ago, we had 75, last year we jumped to 205, and this year we surpassed our goals with 223 graduates.” Hastings said hosting a formal commencement overseas gives Soldiers a chance they might otherwise miss. “Not everyone has the opportunity to travel back to their university and walk across the stage,” she said. “We want to make this moment special for them by providing the cap and gown, calling their name and letting their families cheer as they celebrate what they accomplished.”
That pride was shared across all ranks, from private first class to command sergeant major. For Pfc. Shelbie Panetta, a chemical equipment repairer assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade, earning an Associate of Arts in general studies through University of Maryland Global Campus was about making the most of her first contract. “What motivated me was time,” Panetta said. “I knew I wanted to serve four years in the military and get my education paid for, so I had to start right off the bat. Now I can focus on my bachelor’s degree in health science so I can become an MRI technician when I transition.”
Balancing long duty days with coursework was not easy, Panetta said. It meant late nights after field training and relying heavily on support from her unit leadership and the local education center. Her advice to other Soldiers considering classes overseas was straightforward. “Throw the nerves in the trash and go to the education center,” Panetta said. “It’s going to benefit you whether you stay in the military or get out, so do it while you’re young.”
For the 2nd Infantry Division, the achievement represents more than individual success. It reflects the division’s commitment to readiness and self-improvement alongside Republic of Korea allies. “When we push to grow academically, we set a strong example of readiness, adaptability and personal growth,” Rivera said. “Our dedication to learning makes us better Soldiers, leaders and citizens, and it reflects the ‘Second to None’ mindset in all we do.”