RECENT ODU GRAD TO BE COMMISSIONED BY THE PRESIDENT TODAY

Old Dominion University May graduate Emma Christine Taylor will be commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Army at 2 p.m. today by President George W. Bush during a White House ceremony. In all, 55 cadets and midshipmen from all 50 states, four territories and the District of Columbia will receive their commissions.

Taylor, who earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, served as Army ROTC cadet battalion commander her senior year.

An accomplished student and cadet at Old Dominion, Taylor was the recipient of the General Douglas MacArthur ROTC Leadership Award, the AUSA Military History Award, the Society of American Engineers Award, Military Officers Association of America Award, the Iron Woman Award for the highest physical fitness score and the Battalion Commander's Military Leadership Award.

When interviewed last year about Taylor's many awards, Lt. Col. Barry R. Hendricks, ODU professor of military science, said, "This is obviously a case of someone very deserving being recognized for their hard work and accomplishments."

The ceremony can be viewed live at 2 p.m. on the Web at http://www.pentagonchannel.mil.