This summer, Cal Poly’s Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) earned national recognition for receiving the highest performance average at Advanced Camp 2025 in Fort Knox, Kentucky.  

The Mustang Battalion surpassed all 32 western ROTC programs and secured its place as the top performing unit nationwide. Advanced Camp’s rigorous 36‑day training program is designed to evaluate leadership, improve military proficiency, and enhance physical endurance under high‑stress conditions. 

Four of the six Cal Poly cadets set to commission this year earned the prestigious Distinguished Military Graduate (DMG) recognition — an honor awarded to cadets who exemplify exceptional leadership, academic achievement, and physical fitness. These recognized cadets include Zachary Cook (political science), Isabel Hermann (journalism), Andrew Koenig (history) and Avery White (computer engineering). 

Cadet Gigi Travagline (construction management) earned the Top Female Army Fitness Award for her outstanding performance and dominance in physical performance events. 

“Our cadets embody Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing ethos,” said Lt. Col. Mark Swiney, noting how training provides cadets with the skills to lead in real-world simulations.