ROTC’s Maj. Christian S. Newton promoted to lieutenant colonel during ceremony in Oakland Chapel

For her dedication to serving this country, a professor at Alcorn State University’s Department of Military Science was promoted to a higher rank in the U. S. Army.

The former Maj. Christian S. Newton was promoted to lieutenant colonel during a Promotion Ceremony in her honor Wednesday, Oct. 9, in the Oakland Memorial Chapel. Newton’s family, mentors, and students gathered to congratulate her on ascending to the next level in her career.

Newton, who serves as a professor of military science and leadership, has an extensive military background. Some of her past assignments include platoon leader, shop officer, and maintenance officer for the 123rd Main Support Battalion in Dexheim, Germany, and Baghdad, Iraq. Some of her awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Commendation Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, and many more.

Newton’s military education includes the ordinance officer basic course, combined logistics officer advance course, and joint planners course, among others. She earned a master’s degree in adult, occupational and continuing education form Kansas State University and a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of South Alabama.

Over her 17-year Army career, Newton has overcome many challenges that she thought would deter her from reaching her goals. As she reflected on her struggles and triumphs, she became thankful for longevity.

“I am so honored, and I am deeply moved to accept this promotion,” said Newton. “When I was a cadet, I didn’t see myself getting this far. I remember struggling to run on the track for a little over a mile. During the time, I knew the only way to pay for college was to fulfill the obligations required for my scholarship. There have been hard times in life and my career, but God is so good. I praise him for bringing me to this point.”

Emotion overtook Newton as she told the story about her late grandfather Rueben Williams, who served in the Korean War. She credits his patriotic spirit for fueling her along her journey.

“Although I never got a chance to meet him, I am honored to be a lieutenant colonel and have his blood running through my veins.”

To conclude her speech, Newton took the time to advise her students that showed their support. She encouraged them to exceed expectations and to stand out at whatever they do.

“Do your best all the time. Serve the best you can. It is my honor to teach. It is my honor to give.”

To show her appreciation to her loved ones, Newton ended the ceremony by giving flowers to her mother and daughter and other sentimental gifts to her husband, father, brother, and mentor. She also acknowledged them for being a strong support system that motivated her to achieve excellence.