ROTC graduate student selected to attend Gathering of the Eagles

By Kaia Thomson | February 17, 2025

Brianna Parker, a graduate student currently studying project management and an active member of Charleston Southern’s Air Force ROTC program, was recently selected as one of 12 cadets in the nation to attend the prestigious Gathering of the Eagles.

The Air Force, like many other military branches, requires its members to go to a specialized professional development school called Air Command and Staff College to advance in rank from Major to Lieutenant Colonel. Being asked to attend ACSC is a high honor that many do not receive. To finish out their time at ACSC before advancing in rank, each Major is required to complete a Capstone project.

The Gathering of the Eagles is one of the Capstone options for Majors. It is a widely sought after Capstone as only the top percentage of Majors, across the different branches both domestic and international, are selected to participate. Once selected, the Majors in the Capstone are tasked, over the course of a year, with finding, interviewing, and writing a book about eight influential people who have changed United States military history. After their research is culminated, the Majors have a week-long event at Maxwell Air Force Base, where they present their research. At this event, the eight honorary guests as well as the selected cadets are in attendance.

To be selected for this event as a cadet, Parker was recommended by her Detachment Commander and other Cadre. The Commander had to compile a list of all of her accomplishments academically, physically, and professionally in the CSU ROTC program to send to the selection committee where only 12 applicants in the United States were selected.

At the event, the cadets’ responsibility was to set up, tear down, and assist with transportation throughout the event. Additionally, they were given the opportunity to network with many high-ranking officials in the military, like the Secretary of the Air Force, the honorary guests, and the current Majors advancing to Lieutenant Colonel. This event gives cadets the rare opportunity to not only be inspired about their future careers but also develop relationships that will help them as they move up in rank.

Parker said, “Being honored to attend this event was significant in my professional relationships in my Air Force career.” As she advances in her career, she hopes to make the rank of Major and one day participate in a similar capstone project. Through her project, Parker aims to be able to offer a similar opportunity to future ROTC cadets so they too can experience the comradery and career development at a young age.

Parker is a second-generation Detachment 772 cadet. Her father, Lt. Col. Warren Parker ’07 MBA, also was a cadet at CSU. He recently retired from the Air Force after a 27-year career. Parker’s mother, Melissa Parker ’05 MBA, and an aunt, Francis Jolly ’06 MBA, are also Charleston Southern alums.

Parker was not the first cadet chosen from Charleston Southern to attend the Gathering of the Eagles. In fact, Detachment 772 had a cadet in attendance the previous two years as well, and the detachment hopes to continue this legacy moving forward.