Cesar Ibarra Jr.

Cadet Cesar Ibarra Jr. has found that the best way to lead is to listen.

Cesar, a junior in Air Force ROTC majoring in physics in the College of Science, returned to campus two weeks before the start of classes this year as part of the upper-class training cadre for new cadets, where he stood out for his ability to teach and motivate the first-year cadets in his unit. After his own first year as a Cadet, Cesar knew just how tough the transition could be. He spent time with the new cadets, listening to their stories and trying to figure out a way to help them. As a result of his efforts, he helped to start a tutoring program for cadets, giving in-person help to navigate online classes and prepare for semester tests.

While working with new cadets, or anyone in his community, Cesar truly represents what it means to practice civility— he strives to listen to those he is mentoring, and create environments in which those around him can speak freely and connect with each other. In his efforts as a mentor for young cadets, Cesar has not only helped those younger than him, but also gained innumerable friendships that will, undoubtedly, last a lifetime.

Cesar said that giving other advice and wisdom gives him a lot of gratitude. He named teaching as one of his newfound passions, and had found a calling in serving others; through his military service and through his mentorship of younger cadets, and through his commitment to uniting his community and the world.

Since becoming a cadre sergeant in August and starting tutoring in early September, Cesar has helped more than 30 cadets improve their grades and military proficiency, according to his nomination. By understanding the difficulty of those around him, and lending his own time and efforts to help uplift the lives of others, Cesar has inspired the Corps with his unwavering commitment to civility.

Cesar, for your commitment to civility as a way of life in your interactions with others, it is my honor to present to you the Aspire! Award for Practice Civility.