Hello Jordan,

Summer is here—and with it comes a wave of new milestones, fresh opportunities, and bold next steps for our community. Between celebrating our newest graduates and launching our Bachelor’s + Master’s partnership with Point Park University, it’s been a season of real momentum—and we’re just getting started.

In this issue, you’ll hear from alumni making national impact, get a glimpse of what’s ahead at NCMA World Congress, and learn more about a major new event coming this fall! 



Whether you're exploring your next move or cheering from afar, we’re glad you’re here.

Warmly,

Sabra L. Tomb, Esq.

Director of Training Programs & Strategic Business Development

University of Dayton School of Law

Last month, we proudly celebrated a remarkable new cohort of graduates stepping boldly into the next chapter of their careers. Each graduate reflects determination, purpose, and a deep commitment to public service.

The ceremony was filled with inspiring moments — from the compelling keynote address by Hon. Walter Rice to warm, celebratory snapshots featuring Professor Jenny Strong and alum Travis Miller. These memories remind us that behind every degree is a story of perseverance and mission-driven passion.

To our newest alumni: congratulations! This milestone marks not only the culmination of your hard work but the beginning of your lasting impact.

We’re honored to watch you lead with knowledge and integrity.

Our alumni continue to lead with fresh ideas and bold perspectives…

We’re proud to recognize alum, Earle Johnson, for his recent article The ‘Shrinking’ Defense Industrial Base: An Exaggerated Phenomenon?, published in the Contract Management Magazine by the National Contract Management Association (NCMA).

In the piece, Earle introduces the concept of Performative Contracting—an approach that emphasizes meaningful collaboration, transparency, and long-term value over traditional “lowest price” procurement strategies.

Earle challenges the status quo and opens the door to important conversations about how contracting professionals can better serve their missions. Earle’s work is a strong reflection of the thoughtful leadership and real-world impact our alumni bring to the field!

Starting this summer, we’re excited to announce a new partnership with Point Park University—offering students a seamless path from undergraduate study to graduate-level learning through our Bachelor’s Plus Master’s (BPM) program. 

Through this partnership, eligible Point Park juniors and seniors can:

• Begin graduate coursework by taking up to 6 credit hours in our 100% Online M.S.L. in Government Contracting & Procurement
• Choose from concentrations in Government Contracting or Acquisition Program Management
• Receive a 20% tuition scholarship on up to 6 credit hours of graduate coursework

The BPM pathway is designed to make advanced education more accessible, affordable, and aligned with mission-driven careers in both the public and private sectors. Our collaboration with Point Park is just the beginning—we’re actively expanding these opportunities to additional institutions across the country.

Interested in collaborating with us? Contact Sabra Tomb to learn more! 

We often highlight our concentration in Acquisition Program Management (and our certification option) - but what does being an Acquisition Program Manager (APM) really mean?

How is that role distinct from a project or program manager specifically? 

Let’s dive into it!

Dr. David Morgan, a Government Contracting professor and lead faculty for our Acquisition Program Management concentration, recently tackled these questions in a detailed article that unpacks the responsibilities, core competencies, and strategic role of Acquisition Program Managers in today’s federal landscape.

His article provides a valuable primer for professionals navigating complex acquisition environments and serves as a guidepost for those considering careers in government program management.



With decades of experience in defense acquisition, Dr. Morgan breaks down the core responsibilities of APMs, especially within the Department of Defense and Air Force.

"An APM must always have a validated technical requirement and funding to support a solution. These are not just ‘given’ to a PM… achieving all three objectives [cost, schedule, and performance] during execution is often akin to finding the mythical unicorn."

Take a deep dive into the world of Acquisition Program Management and discover why it might be right for you! 

➡️ Read Dr. Morgan’s article

➡️ Explore our Acquisition Program Management offerings

We’re thrilled to return for our second year at NCMA’s World Congress, the nation’s leading conference for contract management, procurement, and acquisition professionals. Last year, we proudly sponsored the event and hosted a booth—and this year, we’re excited to be back again as an exhibitor!

World Congress is the premier event where government and industry professionals unite to collaborate, innovate, and drive progress.

Why Attend?

Whether you're new to the field or a seasoned expert, World Congress offers something for everyone: 

• Earn CPEs  
• Gain insights into policy shifts and industry trends  
• Sharpen in-demand skills  
• Explore how emerging technologies are shaping the future  
• Network with fellow professionals and solution providers  
• Discover how contract management drives real-world impact 

Professor Rob Lorton presenting at World Congress 2024.

With 70+ sessions focused on evolving mandates, workforce needs, and the future of acquisition, World Congress is the place to sharpen your expertise and deepen your mission-driven impact. We’ll be there—because this is exactly what our program is built for.

Keep an eye out for Rick Cadwallader, who will be representing the Government Contracting Program again this year!

“Looking forward to seeing all of the incredible government contracting professionals again this year!” — Rick Cadwallader

Want to connect while you're there? Swing by our booth—we’d love to meet you!

• July 13^th-16^th: NCMA World Congress
• July 25^th: Fall Priority Application Deadline
• August 4^th - 8^th: Summer Term Final Exams
• August 12^th: Fall Standard Application Deadline
• August 25^th: First Day of Fall Semester
• October 23^rd: Government Contracting Symposium

Did you know our Government Contracting Program offers three convenient start dates each year—Fall, Spring, and Summer?

While we're in the midst of the Summer Term, it's never too early to plan ahead for Fall 2025, beginning August 25th! 

Keep an eye out for more details about our upcoming term and stay connected with us on LinkedIn for the latest updates, insights, and program highlights.

We love celebrating the achievements of our Government Contracting community ... and that means you too!



Our prospective students, current students, alumni, and faculty have all expressed interest in knowing more about our community's successes and accomplishments.

If you have a new position, accolade, or professional achievement you'd like to share, please let us know.