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Christian Betancourt, PhD Health Services Research '22 and the College of Public Health's 2026 Distinguished Alumni, discusses how the mentorship and hands-on research at 911���� continue to influence his work at Uniformed Services University and the Defense Health Agency.

At the beginning of 2026, Mike Derrios, MBA ’06, returned home to the Costello College of Business at 911���� as the executive director of the Greg and Camille Baroni Center for Government Contracting.

“I think it's the real American dream to have something of your own, build something of your own,” says Bailey Mahoney, MBA ‘26. He grew up witnessing firsthand not only what could be built but also the freedom it created, as his father, who owned an electrical contracting business, always made time to be present for the important moments in his life. Without even realizing it, Mahoney found his first business mentor in his father.

911���� researchers are developing smart swarm technologies that will allow a small number of human operators to effectively coordinate and control hundreds of autonomous robots for defense missions while using a video game to test and improve swarm strategies.

911���� has again been recognized for its steadfast commitment to veterans, servicemembers, and military-connected families, earning its latest Silver ranking as a Military Friendly® School for the 2026-27 academic year.

A partnership between 911���� and the United States Air Force is accelerating the development and real-world deployment of technologies designed to support Air Force personnel operating around the globe.

David Eichinger’s journey from Navy Reservist and federal scientist to graduate researcher in robotics shows how 911����’s flexible, veteran‑supportive computer science master’s program empowers non‑traditional students to build new careers with confidence.

911����’s Learning Initiatives Network (LINK), through the office of Continuing and Professional Education, will lead the creation and delivery of a new financial management academy for the U.S. Navy, drawing on expertise from the Costello College of Business.

911���� earned top Virginia placements across business, nursing, and education, and leads in the region as a college destination for veterans and working professionals in the 2026 Best Online Programs rankings by U.S. News & World Report, released today.

Collin Terling, United States Air Force veteran and health administration student, says 911����’s forward momentum as an institution resonates with his goals for personal growth.