Pardee School Alumni Awarded Joint Service Commendation Medal
On December 18, 2020, Michelle “Elle” Ross (Pardee BA ’08), a Captain in the Army Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) Corps, received the Joint Service Commendation Medal for her contribution in complex legal issues and the development of sound policies and trial strategy practices in the preparation of military commissions against ten High Value Detainees at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
CPT Ross’ leadership, professionalism, and untiring efforts made significant contributions to the management and completion of over 125 distinct pretrial discovery and trial preparation missions.
When asked to comment on her commendation, she said the following:
Receiving this award was definitely a highlight of my experience. Any time one is recognized in the military, it is always a special moment, as those moments are fairly rare. What I have appreciated most about this experience in this office is the privilege to work alongside such experienced and dedicated professionals, attorneys and paralegals – all of us together being able to contribute to the office’s overall endeavors in furthering the United State’s objective of bringing al Qaeda and affiliated terrorist groups to justice.
In reflecting on her time since attending the Pardee School at Boston University, CPT Ross offered advice for current and prospective students. “Life is a journey not a specific destination. Your time at BU is only the beginning of this journey, said CPT Ross. “Set yourself on a trajectory toward your goals. You will not reach that goal immediately, and it is hard to see that now, but in 10 years you will look back and realize the significance of every moment and thank your past self, your mentors, and those who helped you for their hard work and dedication…Never ever ever give up, no matter what kind of set back. Keep on going.”