When our workforce grows, so does our mission readiness. Education Services Officers (ESOs) drive this growth by helping members map out career paths, unlock funding, and reach their academic goals.
Alongside them are inspiring self-starters who prove you can successfully balance a demanding Coast Guard career with high-level academic achievement.
To honor these efforts, FORCECOM recently announced this year’s Education Services Officer of the Year (ESOY) and Inspirational Student of the Year (ISOY) winners.
Full-Time ESOY: Ms. Velma Vining, Base Kodiak
Ms. Vining modernized local education operations, approved over $175,000 in tuition assistance, and provided tailored counseling to more than 500 service members. This led to record-breaking participation in educational programs and expanded community engagement, including supporting the new CG JROTC program at Kodiak High School.
Collateral Duty ESOY (Co-Recipient): LT Zachary A. Fedak, MSU Duluth
Lt. Fedak led by example by pursuing his third graduate degree and actively advocating for lifelong learning. He doubled tuition assistance usage in the Duluth area to over $40,000 in a single year and supported local maritime planning for the Festival of Sail.
Collateral Duty ESOY (Co-Recipient): LTJG Jessie T. Farinholt, Sector San Francisco
LTJG Farinholt single-handedly mapped out academic guides for members and spouses, processing over $132,000 in tuition and credentialing assistance. She bolstered Sector San Francisco mission capability by administering 20 Deck Watch Officer exams to propel the Vessel Traffic Service toward 100% watchstander readiness.
ISOY: LT Angelique Limongelli, Personnel Service Center (OPM)
Lt. Limongelli earned her Doctor of Business Administration with a 3.83 GPA and published research focusing on emotional intelligence and leadership in the Coast Guard. She guided the preparation of 95 officer boards and panels to build top talent, while volunteering in her community as a youth run coach.
Honorable Mentions
The ISOY selection panel also recognized three honorable mentions: LTJG Gregory Costello (MIFC PAC), LT Amanda Bourgeois (Sector San Francisco), and AET2 Dylan Parkhurst (Aviation Logistics Center).
Take advantage of your education benefits
The voluntary education services program provides Coast Guard service members and civilians with up to $4,500 in Tuition Assistance and $4,500 in Credentialing Assistance per fiscal year. Enlisted active and reserve members can also earn professional certificates and degrees through the United States Naval Community College (USNCC).
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