Embry-Riddle Cadet Named Air Force ROTC All-American Student of the Year

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Cadet Alec Bessonny has been named the Air Force ROTC All-American Student of the Year — a distinction awarded to three top ROTC seniors across all branches of military service.

Bessonny, a member of Detachment 028 on the Prescott Campus, was selected from 15 finalists selected by the Navy Federal Credit Union ROTC All-American Scholarship Program. A panel of Navy Federal employees and veterans from across the branches chose the finalists from an elite pool of 265 nominations representing 202 schools nationwide.  

As part of his selection, Bessonny will attend the Military Bowl in Annapolis, Maryland, on Dec. 27. He and his fellow All-American Students of the Year will be introduced during the game and recognized on the field in a presentation featured on ESPN at halftime. The honorees will also attend the Medal of Honor Recipients Dinner and take part in a series of celebrations highlighting their accomplishments.

Sponsored by Navy Federal Credit Union, the ROTC All-American Scholarship Program honors ROTC seniors who demonstrate four pillars of the ROTC program: exceptional leadership, military excellence, scholarship and service. Each recipient earns a $6,500 scholarship, with an additional $5,000 award to their unit.

“I hope this shows other cadets that perseverance pays off,” said Bessonny, who credited his cadre and fellow cadets for their mentorship and support. “Every challenge in this program teaches you something about yourself — and about the kind of leader you want to be. I’m proud to represent Embry-Riddle and Detachment 028 in earning this award.”

Bessonny was previously honored at an October ceremony, where retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. Clay Stackhouse, a Navy Federal Credit Union financial education instructor and one of three national judges for the ROTC All-American program, presented him with the award.

“Cadet Bessonny’s performance is a reflection of the outstanding leadership and support within Detachment 028,” Stackhouse said. “Less than 1% of Americans serve their nation in uniform, and it’s an honor to recognize those preparing to take on that responsibility.”

Col. Russell Davis, commander of Detachment 028 and professor of Aerospace Studies, said the award underscores the detachment’s continued excellence.

“This recognition highlights the caliber of cadets we have at Embry-Riddle,” Davis said. “Our mission is to prepare future Air and Space Force leaders who exemplify integrity first, service before self and excellence in all they do.”