Mason Hand is a political science major from Greenville, South Carolina. He is a Dean’s List and Gold Stars recipient and is in the Honors Program. Hand is an editor for the Gold Star Journal, Vice Chairman of the Hollings Society and member of the Political Honors Society. He serves as the Regimental Adjutant for the 2022-23 school year. Hand is also a legacy cadet whose father, Michael Hand, ’90, served as First Battalion adjutant.

“No matter what struggles I faced or what adversity came my way, The Citadel has taught me how to put one foot in front of the other and carry on. A common phrase on campus cadets say is “Embrace the suck” and this is something I have certainly felt on some of those tougher days,” said Jeremy Anyim.

Parents’ Weekend offers a chance for friends and family to visit campus and experience two of the main milestones in a cadet’s career.

The Citadel is officially a KEEN Partner Campus, making it the first senior military college or academy to be given that distinction. Along with more than 50 other schools, this program will bring new collaboration, faculty development, and funding opportunities for The Citadel’s faculty, cadets and students.

Annika Ford is majoring in biology with a chemistry minor. She is from Fort Mill, South Carolina but was born in Canberra, Australia. She is a Dean’s List and Gold Stars recipient. This year, Ford serves as Palmetto Battery Company Commander.

“It is up to men and women graduating from this school, who truly care about it, to continue its lasting legacy and remember those who have come before us. The ring connects us in this special way as a class and with our distinguished alumni. It’s the best way to wrap the prestigious history of this institution into one meaningful object, ” said Blake Giles.

While the future alumni are proudly wearing The Citadel class ring, they will also be carrying a piece of history from past alumni with them.

Relatives and friends of the South Carolina Corps of Cadets will be welcomed to campus during The Citadel’s annual Parents’ Weekend on Friday, Oct. 7 – Sunday, Oct. 9.

The President’s List, awarded for academic and military excellence, is one of the most distinguished cadet awards presented by The Citadel.

Gold stars are awarded each semester to cadets and students who have earned a grade point ratio of 3.7 or higher.