Courtesy of Bowie State University
The Washington Wizards recognized three Bowie State University ROTC Cadets for Military Appreciation Night during their 137-123 win over the Indiana Pacers on Dec. 15.
“It means a lot,” says Cadet Cortez Mastin, “We are the top three cadets in our program. So, for our professors and department chair to select us to be represented here… is just a good feeling overall.” The other two students recognized were Cadet Matthew Williams and Cadet Hilda Nalukwago.
The Wizards awarded the cadets for their hard work and determination while spotlighting and bringing national attention to ROTC programs at Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the Washington, DC metro area.
Williams explained that this recognition allows “other minorities…to see that what you do matters.” It also demonstrated the tenacity and grit of the cadets and introduced a new potential pathway for college students who may be undecided about their educational studies.
The opportunity also highlighted different paths students can take to achieve excellence. Nalukwago explained that “representation matters and representing Bowie State is a great opportunity for us to show our name and say that Bowie State rocks!”
Cadet Mastin explained that the honor “re-emphasizes what we mean to the nation, the Army and the ROTC program at Bowie State.”