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The Inaugural Air and Space Forces’ Sentry Educator Award is given to ten educators in New England for upholding the ethics and code of the U.S. Air Force. It’s awarded by the 319th Recruiting Squadron. Every award winner is a resident and educator of New England and is distinguished by their prior service in the military, as well as their excellence as teachers and professors.

Chief Master Sgt. Gervacio Malgonago, of the 319th Recruiting Squadron, elaborated on why he thinks it’s important to award educators who best exhibit the ideals of the Air Force. “This award is our way of embracing our partners in academia and recognizing them for developing our nation’s future and embodying our shared values of integrity, service, and excellence in all we do.”

Recipients are nominated by students of the same institution. At ��������, Alek Khomichuk (’23) nominated Dr. Johnson last semester and wrote an essay on how Dr. Johnson embodies the ideals of the Air Force, as well as why he deserved to be recognized for his efforts and dedication to ��������.

Tech. Sgt. Kimberly Nagle, who oversaw the Sentry Educator Award program, explained the need for highlighting the impact of educators: “These educators are paving the way for a future where young learners can dream big, reach for the stars and make remarkable contributions to the world,” she said. “We just wanted a way to celebrate them and show them how much we care.”

Justin Marques, of the Veterans and Military Service department on campus, introduced Dr. Johnson at the ceremony and commented on his  achievements as chair of the Mathematics Department. “We have a lot of great faculty and staff … and Alek nominated Jesse Johnson,” he said. “He wrote a really good essay which described the values of service, excellence, and integrity… the core values of the Air Force. He told me a lot about Jesse, and I thought [he] was the perfect candidate.”

“I can only express immense gratitude and pride for winning the Sentry Educator Award,” Dr. Johnson said about his win. “Alex’s nomination and my subsequent receipt of the award was a humbling and inspiring moment for me. I am absolutely thrilled to be recognized for my dedication and passion I have for educating Westfield’s students. I wholeheartedly believe in providing comprehensive support for all our students in ways that are unique to their experiences.”

Dr. Johnson also elaborated on why it’s imperative that our veterans be supported. “Our veteran students have selflessly served our union, and it is our duty to ensure their successful transition to Westfield and support them throughout their higher education journey. Prioritizing mental health resources for our veterans is crucial, including counseling, mentorship, and advising services specifically designed to address their unique needs. We must continue to offer a welcoming and inclusive environment where veterans feel comfortable seeking assistance for any challenges they may face.”

Recipients of the award will be eligible to be nominated for the Air Force’s Distinguished Educator Tour, which offers more education opportunities and additional exposure to the country’s Air and Space Forces.