Navy League CEO Mike Stevens to deliver keynote remarks 

Adelphi, Md. — Oct. 29, 2026 — University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) will host its annual Veterans Day Ceremony on Wednesday, Nov. 11, at 9:30 a.m. in the General John W. Vessey Jr. Ballroom at the College Park Marriott Hotel and Conference Center in Adelphi, Maryland.

Since its founding in 1947, UMGC has served the U.S. military around the world. Today, more than half of its learners are veterans, active-duty servicemembers, reservists or military dependents. The ceremony is free and open to the public, including members of the UMGC community, with the option to attend in person or online. A reception will follow.

Register to attend here. Registration is required by Thursday, Nov. 5.

This year’s theme, “Service Carries Forward,” highlights how veterans continue to lead, serve and strengthen classrooms, workplaces and communities beyond their time in uniform.

The program will feature:

  • Keynote remarks by Mike Stevens, chief executive officer of the Navy League of the United States and retired 13th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy.

  • Musical performances celebrating the spirit of service.

  • The presentation of the General John W. Vessey Jr. Student Veteran of the Year Award, honoring a military-affiliated student who exemplifies excellence in military service and academic achievement.

Stevens leads the Navy League of the United States, a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening public awareness and support of the nation’s sea services. He retired from the U.S. Navy in 2016 after a 33-year career, ultimately serving as the 13th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy and senior enlisted adviser to the chief of naval operations.

“Since our founding in 1947, UMGC has stood alongside the military community, providing access to education for those who serve,” said UMGC President Gregory W. Fowler, PhD. “As we look ahead to our 80th anniversary, we honor the generations of veterans who have shaped our university and our nation. Their dedication inspires our continued commitment to serving military learners around the world and helping them transform their lives through education.”

For more information on how UMGC supports the veteran student community, visit the Veterans Resources & Services page. 

About University of Maryland Global Campus

University of Maryland Global Campus was founded more than 75 years ago specifically to serve the higher education needs of working adults and military servicemembers. Today, UMGC is the largest provider of postsecondary education in Maryland and continues its global tradition with online and hybrid courses, more than 175 classroom and service locations worldwide and more than 100 degrees and certificates backed by the reputation of a state university and the University System of Maryland. For more information, visit www.umgc.edu.  

Media inquiries: Please email media@umgc.edu.