Since 1876, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) has been an institution small in size, but unmatched in purpose.
On May 21, after four challenging years, the Class of 2025 will walk across the stage, departing from their roles as cadets to become ensigns in the U.S Coast Guard.
Approximately 92% of the graduates will be stationed at operational units, bolstering the Coast Guard’s effectiveness and contributing greatly to mission success. The rest will work in mission support roles such as naval engineering and finance, enabling the Coast Guard to continue achieving the protection of our borders and maintaining the sovereignty of our waters.
Every year USCGA names the highest performing cadet as the Distinguished Graduate. The title is given to the cadet with the highest military precedence average which combines academic, military, and athletic achievements throughout the four-year program. This year, Cadet Veronica L. Krystofik has been recognized as the Distinguished Graduate.
"When I learned more about the Coast Guard, it felt like a perfect fit: a chance to save lives, protect others, and stay connected to the water I grew up on. I also knew the Academy would be one of the hardest things I'd ever do -- and I wanted that challenge," said Krystofik.
As a varsity softball player, a mentoring programs division officer, bravo platoon commander during her second year, and member of the ski, snowboard, and golf clubs, Krystofik maintained a rigorous and busy schedule.
“Of course, there were late nights and moments of stress, but I didn't let that stress define my experience," said Krystofik. "By prioritizing well-being and connection, I was able to stay grounded and consistently put forward my strongest work."
Krystofik will report to Sector Mobile, Alabama as an intelligence officer.
Cadet Andrew J. Harris is a mechanical engineering major from Pittsburgh, a member of the diving team, and a cello player for the cadet orchestra. He was one of three cadets who completed the P6 capstone design project.
The P6, a gas-powered pump, is used for dewatering, firefighting and emergency damage control aboard Coast Guard vessels. Harris and his team designed a P6 pump which uses a lithium-ion battery instead of gasoline.
“The project was a culmination of everything we’ve learned up to that point,” said Harris. “Our design uses 1/12th of the power consumption of a regular P6 while still maintaining high flow rates.”
The success of the newly designed P6 pump has the potential to positively impact the Coast Guard’s operational readiness, reducing costs while improving efficiency and increasing ease of operation.
Harris will report aboard the USCGC Reliance (WMEC-615) Pensacola, Florida as a deck watch officer.
Cadet Chase E. Randall is a civil engineering major, captain of the wrestling team, and golf support department head. Not only is Randall the first Division III Wrestling National Champion, but he’s also the first Coast Guard wrestler to win back-to-back national championships in both 2024 and 2025. During the 2024 National Championships, he was named the most outstanding wrestler, an honor voted upon by coaches nationwide.
“My biggest lesson learned from wrestling at the Academy would probably be to make sure you are able to live your life with no regrets,” Randall explained. “In my training, I always asked myself before I wrestled if I did everything in my power to be the best prepared for my match. If I could confidently answer that question yes, I knew I would be happy with my outcome whether I won or lost and that is a lesson that goes beyond just the mat.”
Randall will report to Surface Forces Logistics Center in Norfolk, Virginia.
Poised for impact, the Class of 2025 stands ready to lead with clarity, courage, and commitment – prepared not just for today’s challenges, but for the evolving demands of the future.