EXCEL student earns regional military honor
FOR RELEASE: Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Huntington, Ind. "Huntington University EXCEL student Bridgett Harper recently earned regional recognition as the Region IV Rookie Recruiter of the Year for the Air National Guard. Staff Sgt. Harper of Fort Wayne, Ind., is a production recruiter for the Guard's 122nd Fighter Wing. Region IV covers nine states, including Michigan, Maryland, Ohio, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia and Delaware. Having served as a recruiter for nearly two years, Harper was nominated for the award after maintaining an average of 4.75 accessions per month and a 95 percent critical Air Force Specialty Code placement rate.
Being a recruiter for the Indiana Air National Guard has given me great satisfaction in knowing that I am able to make a difference and a positive impact on an individual's life, Harper said. I appreciated being nominated for the award, and when I was notified that I was selected as the Region IV Rookie Recruiter of the Year, I was truly humbled to earn such an honor.
Harper is currently enrolled in the EXCEL program, working on a degree in Organizational Management.
I feel the degree is right in line with my goals of eventually becoming a Recruiting Officer Supervisor, she said. The EXCEL program is a perfect fit for someone like me who is constantly on the go. I am able to get quality education through Huntington University without having to modify my very busy work schedule.
Perry Collins, director of the Huntington University EXCEL program and a retired colonel, praised Harper as one of the most professional non-commissioned officers he has ever met.
I spent 39 years in the military, and her work ethic and dedication to sharing the benefits of a military career are what all recruiters should use as a benchmark, said Collins.
Collins recalls first meeting Harper when she was a security police officer.
We were working the disappearance of a young airman, he said. During that early morning time together, she shared her dream of someday being a recruiter and having the opportunity to tell others about the Air National Guard. It is great to see her recognized as the best of the best. She is most deserving.
Harper will serve as Region IV's representative in the national competition against recruiters from across the country.
