FAU MVSS ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR EMBARKS AT SEA ABOARD THE USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (CVN-69)

On June 19-20, 2026, Associate Director David Alphonso, Military and Veterans Student Success (MVSS), Division of Student Affairs, embarked for two days aboard the warship USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (CVN-69) as Florida Atlantic continues a very strong partnership with the United States Navy and Marine Corps. David was selected as a member of the Distinguished Visitor Carrier Embark program, where he messaged Florida Atlantic's class-leading military-connected student and family support, services, and online programs. As part of the experience, he was flown out to the warship on a V-22 Osprey aircraft, participated in underway carrier flight deck landing and takeoff, slept aboard, observed flightdeck and bridge operations, and engaged with leaders and crew from various departments and roles.

Since commissioning, USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER has participated in deployments including the Gulf War in the 1990s, and more recently in support of U.S. military operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Yemen. The carrier currently serves as the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 2 based in Norfolk, Virgina. 

David reported, "What an amazing experience to see our Sailors and Marines in action, protecting our nation! I spoke with crew who shared their journey and experience with the Navy and Marine Corps and their plans to continue refining their skills through academia utilizing their VA education benefits. As a civilian, this opportunity has provided valuable insight on our veterans’ service prior to transitioning to civilian roles. This helps me conceptualize how to build a strong sense of membership for them at Florida Atlantic to optimize their transition.”