JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. — In a ceremony marked by pride, professionalism, and heartfelt recognition, the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command celebrated the 2025 MG Mary E. Clarke Instructor of the Year awardees on Sept. 25, recognizing seven exceptional educators selected from across the Army School System. Since 1998, TRADOC has honored the Army’s finest instructors — those who exemplify the Army Learning Concept through superior instructional skill, mentorship, and unwavering professionalism. These educators shape the future of our force, one lesson at a time.
This year’s selection process began in September 2024, drawing 72 highly qualified nominees from the Army, Army Reserve, National Guard, and component schools. Each nomination packet for the program included criteria centered on the nominee’s qualifications, instructional impact, and professional presence. After rigorous evaluation, seven winners emerged, representing the very best in Army education.
“This was the culmination of a years’ worth of effort. It was highly exciting to not only have the honor of being the first [Medical Center of Excellence] NCO Instructor of the Year, but also the last year of the competition being under the TRADOC umbrella,” shared Staff Sgt. Cassidy Foster from MEDCoE. “I have spent over half of my career either in or around TRADOC units and being selected as an instructor was the highlight of my career so far. I thank my team and my family for all the support they have given me.”
Each winner received a TRADOC 4-star note, a commemorative coin, a certificate of achievement, and an engraved plaque from Gen. Gary M. Brito, commanding general, TRADOC. “Receiving the ARNG Instructor of the Year award was an incredibly humbling and motivating moment for me,” remarked Sgt. 1st Class Justyn Martinez from the Non-Commissioned Officer Academy. “It reaffirms my passion for instructing and inspiring the next generation of leaders, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such a meaningful mission.”
That mission is critical as these instructors continue to shape the next generation of Soldiers and leaders, ensuring that the Army remains a highly capable and effective fighting force. “Everyone in the military has a gift. As instructors we are serving our nation while teaching our students. We are encouraging them to learn, grow, and take that growth back to their organization,” shared Capt. Sebern Huntsman from the Soldier Support Institute. “This allows them then to plant that seed given by our instruction, so that they may lead diligently.”
The IOY program has been led by Dr. Sunday L. Wright and her team in the TRADOC G-37 Training Directorate, Programs Division. As the importance of structured education in military training continues to resonate, the commitment shown by these instructors not only enhances individual capabilities but also uplifts the entire military education framework. The ongoing development of leadership within the Army reflects a strategic focus on maintaining operational effectiveness in an uncertain global landscape.
The recognition of educators within the military, such as those honored in the MG Mary E. Clarke Award, underscores a growing appreciation for pedagogical excellence in tactical training. Early reports suggest that a shift towards more robust instructor training programs could be on the horizon, aiming to enhance operational readiness throughout the ranks. While evidence is anecdotal at this stage, the implications for military readiness and the potential for fostering leadership from the ground up are clear. Now is the time for a concerted push towards elevating the standards of training, ensuring that each soldier not only understands their role but is inspired to lead with integrity and competence.