In April 2021, Capt Eugene DeNezza joined the Prep School’s Math Department and hit the ground running. Beyond his role as an instructor, Capt DeNezza applied his relentless work ethic to countless endeavors as a project officer, innovator, mentor, and leader. As his time at the Prep School draws to a close, we celebrate with Capt DeNezza and look forward to his success at Wright Patterson AFB.

What did you enjoy about instructing Preppies?

My favorite part of teaching is when you can see a student, in real time, grasp a concept. There's something so special about imparting knowledge to another person. Also, love how the Preppies do something or say something, and it brightens your whole day. From serious learning to the goofy in-betweens, it's a joy to teach here.

What did you enjoy about working with Preppies outside the classroom?

Their enthusiasm to learn or seek advice. You really get so many opportunities here to make a difference to someone. For a lot of them it's their first time being away from home, having a consistent paycheck that is 100% their own, living with 240 of their peers, and the obvious military training piece that is part of all aspects of their lives here. It's a lot for someone around 18 years old, so they come to their instructors...the people they spend hours per day with for counsel. When I arrived here, I never expected to be a counselor of sorts. From helping students with finances to helping them understand why their AOC is so 'tough'...it's amazing to see the maturity curve shoot up throughout the year.

Talk to us about your passion for helping Preppies with personal finance.

In my first year here, I realized no one is teaching Preppies about finances beyond the standard military financial briefs. I struggled with finances when I was younger; most folks do, so I created a three-part class. The first part is financial basics, which covers things like inflation, compound interest, credit, debt, index funds, etc. My goal with part 1 is to create general financial literacy. The second part is military-specific; it's a deep dive into the Blended Retirement System, where my goal is to show how incredible our retirement benefits are. The third part is focused on Investing and Credit Cards. My goal here is to go over the basic principles of long-term investing and talk about the benefits military members can find in credit cards and their dangers. Every time I teach this class, it's voluntary; usually, it's standing room only. For a month or two after, I have students scheduling meetings to go over various topics from the class in greater detail. I'm a Math Instructor, but this is my favorite thing to teach.

As you look back, can you share one way that you developed as a CGO?

If you don't develop here…I don't know how you did that. The opportunities are endless; there is more to do and pursue than you could in 20 years. Project Officer roles taught me a ton about coordinating and planning major events. Still, the standout position to me was serving as an Associate AOC during the Prep School’s Basic Military Training. I shadowed and commanded a squadron as a Major's second in command wherein you're not only leading a Squadron of nearly 80 Candidates, but you're also advising and leading about 15 USAFA Cadet Cadre and 2 AMTs.

Would you share with us a little about your next assignment and what you’re looking forward to?

I'm going to Wright Patterson AFB in Dayton, Ohio. I'm thrilled! I know most everyone dislikes Dayton, but I LOVE that area. Overall, it’s relaxed, quiet, and green, unlike Colorful (Brown) Colorado. I’m not sure what my next job is exactly, but it seems like a staff position in plans or programs; it’s still up in the air. My wife and I plan to (hopefully!) buy our first home there, so that's another reason I'm excited. I will miss this place; it's a hidden gem.

Please look out for more Prep School updates and exciting opportunities to support the cadet candidates on their journey towards acceptance to the Academy on Instagram at @usafaprepofficial. Donations can be made to the Preparatory School Fund at usafa.org.

Capt Eugene DeNezza