Training for Success

Nurturing Leaders Through Service 

At EOU, students find numerous paths to success, including through the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC). Designed to develop leaders across disciplines, ROTC is open to all degree programs. This elective curriculum, taken alongside required classes, equips students with tools, training, and experiences essential for success in any competitive environment.

“ROTC is designed to cultivate leaders, complimenting students’ coursework with practical skills and experiences,” Captain Renee Meckel, Assistant Professor of Military Science, said.

The Military Science Leadership Minor enhances students’ leadership skills alongside their academic pursuits. Upon completing the program, students are commissioned as officers as part of EOU’s graduation ceremonies each spring. The ROTC curriculum covers lessons from military history, emphases self-development, physical and mental toughness, and lifelong learning.

EOU’s program dates back to 1940 with the 354th Army Gold Club, initially training pilots for World War II. In 1991, it became a commissioning source at Eastern Oregon State College, transitioning to an ROTC program in 2009. Since that time, EOU has produced officers for numerous units, maintaining a tradition of excellence in physical fitness, military professionalism, and fieldcraft. The unofficial motto, “Electos Filios Legion” or “The Brigade’s Elite,” reflects EOU’s commitment to being the best ROTC company in the state.

  Jessica McDonald joined ROTC after learning about the extensive scholarship opportunities. 

“The ROTC scholarship covered my housing and even provided a stipend for meal plans, which was a huge help during my freshman year, especially when my mom lost her job due to COVID-19,” McDonald shared.

Despite its small size, the program has pushed students into challenging situations, fostering growth. The unit and class sizes create a supportive and engaging learning environment.

“This program is more than just going to the gym and participating in labs and classes. It’s about partnership and teamwork, networking and scholarship,” McDonald stressed. “The scholarship does help a lot, so that’s very nice. From freshman to senior year, if you put the work into it, you’re putting work into yourself. The instructors and staff are going to work for you, and they’re going to help you become a better person and a better leader.”