Rear Admiral Jan C. Gaudio ’71, USN, Retired, Named DWC 2007 "Distinguished Alumnus"

(Nashua) — Rear Admiral Jan C. Gaudio, USN, Retired, a 1971 graduate of New England Aeronautical Institute, now Daniel Webster College, was honored during Daniel Webster (DWC) commencement ceremonies earlier this month as the recipient of the “Distinguished Alumnus Award.”

The award is presented to a Daniel Webster graduate for continuing service to society in either a professional or volunteer capacity.

Said Daniel Webster President Robert E. Myers, “Jan Gaudio has exhibited a true commitment to his country and to the United States Navy. He is a true credit to himself and his family and to Daniel Webster College.”

A New York native, Admiral Gaudio received his Associate’s Degree from New England Aeronautical Institute in 1971. He then went on to obtain a Bachelor of Arts degree from the State University of New York at Brockport, and a Master of Arts degree in National Security Affairs from the Naval Postgraduate School. He also completed a Federal Executive Fellowship at the John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University. From 1999 to 2000 he was the Senior Fellow on the Chief of Naval Operations Strategic Studies Group, Naval War College.

Rear Admiral Gaudio served 34 years in the United States Navy and commanded both at sea and ashore. His last command was as the 84^th Commandant of Naval District Washington, headquartered at the historic Washington Navy Yard. He was responsible for base operating support on 18 Navy installations in the National Capital Region and Maryland. He also served as the first Deputy Commander, Joint Force Headquarters National Capital Region, responsible for Homeland Defense of the nation’s Capital.

Mr. Gaudio is now executive vice president and chief operations officer of the Navy-Marine Corp Relief Society, whose mission is to provide, in partnership with the Navy and Marine Corps, financial, educational, and other assistance to members of the U.S. Naval Services, eligible family members, and survivors when in need.

Founded in 1965, Daniel Webster College educates men and women for professional entry and advanced studies in the fields of aviation, computer science, business and management, social science and engineering.