Communications
Uniting Military Leadership and Learning at the University of South Florida
The Joint Military Leadership Center (JMLC) is the hub of cultivating the next generation of military leaders at the University of South Florida (USF). The team manages the four-story Charles William Young (CWY) Hall which houses the Army, Naval, and Air Force Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) programs and coordinates the ROTC Learning Living Community (LLC). USF is one of 50 programs in the nation to host all three ROTC programs and less than 20 colleges or universities to run an LLC for ROTC students.
The JMLC also offers inter-service collaboration between the different ROTC branches by planning joint activities like the Commanders’ Cup competition, sponsors periodic visits to the U.S. Central Command and the U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), and a senior graduation celebration. JMLC sponsors scholarships for students and have subsidized cadet trips for military experiential experiences.
The recently hired Director, Derek Moore, D.CJ. said “I want to connect with colleges, outside communities in Tampa Bay, and more with veteran organizations to ensure everyone knows who we are and the important work our ROTC students and faculty are doing.”
The CWY has two floors dedicated to offices for military professors, instructors, and staff and rooms that provide hands-on military training. The other two floors have classrooms and auditoriums one floor is dedicated to classrooms for ROTC students and is available to rent when students aren’t in classes. The first-floor CWY rooms can be reserved for the university's use.
The ROTC LLC currently has 27 students living in it and they can house up to 44 students. The majority of the students are freshmen and the LLC fosters a sense of community and belonging, where cadets can make lifetime connections with like-minded students with similar career goals.
JMLC provides one or two events per semester to bring LLC students together and step outside of their normal routines and take a break from school and ROTC training. Recently, they recently spent time at an entertainment center where they bowled, played laser tag, and boosted their confidence and teamwork through an exciting ropes course. The ROTC LLC students also joined the deans of Undergraduate Studies at the annual Dinner with the Deans.
“Living in the ROTC LLC is an experience that has transformed me both as a leader and as an individual. Surrounded by exceptional individuals who share the same passion for growth and leadership, I have been able to push myself to be the best I can be. The last two years in the LLC have taught me the importance of being strategic and intentional with tasks, which has helped me achieve academic excellence and personal success in the business world. Joining the ROTC LLC is a decision that can change your life for the better,” said the ROTC LLC Residential Advisor, Cartez Rentz.
The Joint Military Leadership Center connects the USF ROTC programs with the university and functions as the liaison between the military and USF. Creating a sense of belonging and connection with the academic and military preparation experience for our future military leaders.