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LTJG Shahana L. Brown, USN Reservist

LTJG Shahana L. Brown, USN Reservist

Nov 24, 2015

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What do I get from being an NNOA member?

A benefit of NNOA is having access to leaders who are committed to the service of others. For example, I was fortunate to attend the most recent conference held 28-30 July 2015 at Naval Station, San Diego. As a result of the speed mentoring and breakout sessions offered at the conference, I received life altering career shaping deposits from leaders whom I would not have encountered otherwise. There were many but three who left the most lasting impressions on me were VADM Manson Brown, USN (Ret) and RDML Jesse Wilson and CAPT Ron Evans, USN (Ret). I will NEVER forget them. In retrospect, being active in my local chapter (Memphis, TN) allows me the opportunity to “pay it forward” because one of the greatest benefits of being associated with NNOA isn’t just what you can get; it’s what you can give.

An onboarding process that will allow a good translation of the culture, mission and vision of the organization.

LTJG Shahana L. Brown, USN Reservist

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CDR Michelle R. Watson, USCG Reservist

CDR Michelle R. Watson, USCG Reservist

Nov 9, 2015

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What do I get from being an NNOA member?

I was initially exposed to NNOA in 1993, as a Coast Guard Academy cadet.  I had never seen so many minority officers in one setting, and I was amazed by the positive atmosphere. As I reflect on my first NNOA experience, guidance and mentorship I received in that one week felt like I was a young girl sitting at the feet of a elder listening to a wise tale. That experience helped me to navigate the next few years of my cadet life.  The network of contacts I received helped shape my first few years as a Junior Officer.

 I have since transitioned from active duty to the select reserve and I have steadily promoted throughout the years; always staying connected to the NNOA.  This year, I decided to become a lifetime member. I keep some of the most valuable lessons from the organization in the forefront of my mind and I pass them along to anyone that will listen…As a minority officer, you cannot be afraid to pursue your dreams and when an opportunity presents itself, don’t let yourself stand in your own way.  Take it. Stretch yourself and do your very best. In the end, you will be surprised how much you’ve grown and the opportunities you have opened up for future minority officers, irregardless of status.  But if you stay in your comfort zone, you’ll never live up to your full potential.

CDR Michelle R. Watson, USCG Reservist

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Ensign Nicolas Herbert, USCG Reservist

Ensign Nicolas Herbert, USCG Reservist

Nov 9, 2015

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What do I get from being an NNOA member?

I believe the benefits of joining the NOAA will bring greater understanding of the needs of a junior Officer in the USCG. I believe I will be presented with the opportunity to network with willing and able senior leaders to assist me in developing my craft and to one day fill the positions of leadership with in the USCG. I participated in a call earlier this year and the information being shared amongst the Officer Core was vast and plentiful and I believe this platform will enrich my Coast Guard career.

Ensign Nicolas Herbert, USCG Reservist

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Maj. Melissa Ayres, USMC Reservist

Maj. Melissa Ayres, USMC Reservist

Nov 8, 2015

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What do I get from being an NNOA member?

I became a Regular member of NNOA in 2001, while stationed at MCAS Yuma, AZ.  I saw it as an opportunity to network and learn more about being a professional in the Marine Corps.

In the time since then, I have become a Life Member and held several board positions at the Chapter and National levels. The benefits of NNOA membership go beyond military status of Active, Reserve, Retired. I was on active duty when I became a member and continue to experience the same benefits as a Reservist working towards Retirement. My NNOA membership has given me the opportunity to learn, to help, and to share.

NNOA membership has given me the opportunity to learn from and ask direct questions of my Commandant and other Marine Corps leaders about issues that affect me during each Professional Development and Training Conference and Chapter sponsored PME. NNOA membership has given me the opportunity to learn about the Navy and Coast Guard through my Service counterparts.

My NNOA membership gives me personal fulfillment through helping others.  Volunteering at schools, preparing and delivering care packages for families, supporting/coordinating fundraising events and conferences strengthening the community through service.

NNOA membership has given me access to the knowledge and experiences of countless individuals. I have gained immeasurable knowledge through military and civilian community leaders’ experiences and my own have prepared me to share with others.  Knowledge about the active component experience, the reserve component experience, the female experience, the importance of diversity in our Services are just a fraction of what I’ve gained.

I look forward to more opportunities to learn more, to help more and to share my knowledge as an NNOA member.  

Maj. Melissa Ayres, USMC Reservist

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