Leadership takes many forms, and for Lander University student Declan Dunn, it means excelling in the classroom while serving as an ROTC cadet, campus leader and Presidential Ambassador.
As the nation observes Women’s History Month, Dunn’s commitment to scholarship, service and leadership reflects the growing role women play in shaping the future of both the military and their communities.
Dunn said she was drawn to the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program at her high school because she appreciated the “structure, community and discipline … I knew that I might as well keep going with ROTC in college.”
So committed to making the military her focus and future career, Dunn graduated a semester early from high school so that she could complete her basic training before going to college – even though the decision meant braving the chill of winter at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri to finish the military requirements.
A junior majoring in psychology, Dunn consistently has stepped into leadership positions in many areas of her life at Lander. You may see her on campus as a Lander Presidential Ambassador giving tours or greeting community visitors at special events. You may also find her helping her peers through the University’s LINK program, or out in the community serving the public, including volunteering at Meg’s House to support survivors of abuse.
Within ROTC, Dunn has been the commanding officer of the Bearcat Company and captain of the Ranger Challenge, an annual event which tests the mental and physical toughness and leadership of cadets.
Her desire and ability to go the extra mile were among the reasons Dunn was named the Top Military Science II Cadet last year. The award recognizes a sophomore for their leadership and critical thinking skills, as well as basic technical abilities.
“ROTC has helped by putting me in challenging spots, and helping me get comfortable being uncomfortable,” Dunn said.
Today’s U.S. Army comprises about 18 percent women, a number that continues to rise. As she looks ahead to a military career where she would like to work as a psychologist and help veterans, Dunn hopes to inspire other women for military service.
“Don’t let the stereotypes and physical aspects of military service hold you back,” she said. “You deserve the opportunities to serve as much as anyone else does.”
Through ROTC, her academic studies and her many roles across campus, Dunn is building a foundation for her life of service. For Lander University, she represents the spirit of leadership and dedication that continues to inspire the next generation of women stepping forward to serve their communities and their country.