Emory & Henry College ROTC Graduate Emily Johnston commissioned as 2nd Lieutenant in United States Army
She joined the ROTC program in fall 2018 as the first Cadet at Emory & Henry in 100 years. Johnston met all the requirements (academic, physical and training) to earn this opportunity and will go on to represent herself, Emory & Henry, and the United States Army with distinction.
While at Emory & Henry, Johnston was part of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association and Intercollegiate Dressage Association equestrian teams, where she competed at the national level. In May 2020, she graduated with her bachelor’s degree in Biology. She also met her fiancé, Robert Gentry, during her time at Emory & Henry.
“We are proud of Emily and all that she has accomplished,” said President Dr. John W. Wells. “Like all of our ROTC students, we know she’ll go on to make Emory & Henry proud.”
Johnston was influenced by her great-grandfather Colonel David W. Dick, who served the United States Army Chemical Corp for 20 years. Johnston says he was a great mentor, story teller, and inspired her to serve the United States. She hopes to serve in the United States Army for 20 years just like her great-grandfather.
The Emory & Henry ROTC program began in the Fall of 2018, being reformed after its disbanding in 1920. The program is open to all current and incoming students enrolled at Emory & Henry. Upon graduation with a degree of their choice, students will be commissioned as officers and may serve in the Army, Army Reserve or Army National Guard. The partnership with East Tennessee State University allows Emory & Henry students to become cadets and participate in leadership and physical training courses at ETSU while continuing their academic studies.
- 2nd Lieutenant Johnston
Like all of our ROTC students, we know she’ll go on to make Emory & Henry proud.
- President Wells