Main Common Mitchell Kilgo has spent greater than three a long time serving his nation with distinction within the US Military. The HBCU alumnus is now being acknowledged for his accomplishments on and off the sector as he prepares to be inducted into the Virginia Union “Tough Tom” Harris Athletic Corridor of Fame.
From the Gridiron to the Pentagon
A local of Newport Information, Virginia, Kilgo performed soccer for the VUU Panthers from 1985 to 1988. His time on the sector mirrored the identical self-discipline and management that will outline his army profession. Kilgo’s army journey, nonetheless, wasn’t a part of his authentic plan. As a freshman, he accepted an ROTC scholarship as a sensible backup.
“It was my Plan B,” he recalled. “I performed soccer and knew if I couldn’t play for some motive, I wanted another plan to assist me keep at school… it was not a lifelong ambition.”
However what began as a fallback shortly turned a calling.
“I felt nice about serving and fell in love with the individuals and the Military’s lifestyle,” Kilgo mentioned. “I suppose Plan B was consistent with God’s plan for my life and never the choice I used to be looking for.”
In 1988, Kilgo commissioned into the U.S. Military. Through the years, he rose by means of the ranks to grow to be the Deputy Inspector Common of the U.S. Military Inspector Common Company, retiring in 2022. The function positioned him on the coronary heart of army accountability and oversight.
A Profession of Service and Excellence
Kilgo’s army résumé is as embellished as it’s numerous. Over the span of his profession, he has commanded at each degree, held key operational roles, and earned a number of superior levels in pursuit {of professional} excellence. His management has impacted world operations, from cybersecurity initiatives to logistical command help throughout the Division of Protection.
Honoring an HBCU Legacy
The induction into the Corridor of Fame at his HBCU is greater than a private achievement. It’s a recognition of the enduring affect of his time at an HBCU on his life and profession. For Kilgo, the teachings realized on the soccer area within the shadow of Richmond’s Lombardy Avenue have been foundational.
“Congratulations to all in your induction into the Virginia Union ‘Tough Tom’ Harris Athletic Corridor of Fame,” mentioned Joe Taylor, VUU Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics and Group Wellness. “You’re becoming a member of an elite, distinguished group of extraordinary people. Your induction is a results of robust character, dedication, and dedication to private development and unselfish help of Virginia Union College. All of you embody the championship spirit of Tough Tom Harris in strengthening the model of our beloved college.”
A Testomony to HBCU Impression
Kilgo’s story is emblematic of the pathways that HBCU establishments proceed to offer for Black leaders. His journey from student-athlete to Main Common underscores the function that VUU—and the broader HBCU group—play in producing leaders of consequence.
As Main Common Mitchell Kilgo takes his place within the Corridor of Fame. His profession stands as a testomony to the highly effective intersection of service, scholarship, and sport that defines the HBCU expertise.
