Parents News & Events

2024-25 - MMA NEWS

Headshot image of MMA employee Rodrigo Padilla. He is wearing an MMA blazer against the backgrop of the American and MMA flags.

For Rodrigo Padilla, returning to MMA is a chance to give back to the place that helped shape who he is today. An MMA alumnus from the Class of 2015, Padilla now serves as an international student relations specialist, helping young men from around the world navigate their journey to the same Academy that helped define his own path.

Headshot image of Danielle DeTienne, MMA English instuctor. She is wearing an MMA blazer against a background with the U.S. and MMA flags.

For Danielle DeTienne, teaching isn’t just a profession — it’s a lifelong passion grounded in curiosity, creativity and care. Now in her third year at Missouri Military Academy, the English instructor brings not only academic expertise to the classroom but also a deep commitment to helping cadets grow into thoughtful, independent individuals.

Brick entrance sign for Missouri Military Academy with campus building and trees in the background.

MMA has announced the addition of Lawrence W.K. Casselle and Andres Hoffmann to the Academy's Board of Trustees. Casselle, an Army veteran and longtime member of the U.S. foreign service, is a 1993 graduate of the Academy. Hoffmann, who graduated in 1989, is an attorney, financial adviser and notary official in México City.

Missouri Military Academy alumnus Jared Magee gives senior Cadet with a commemorative coin. They are on the gymtorium stage.

Missouri Military Academy honored the graduating Class of 2025 during its 41st annual Senior Banquet, held in the Centennial Gymtorium on Friday, May 16. The evening featured reflections on the cadets’ time at MMA, formal recognition of their achievements and a ceremonious farewell as they prepare to join the Academy’s alumni ranks.

Three Missouri Military Academy cadets pass the Davison Saber during a Final Formation Ceremony on the Missouri Military Academy lawn.

As MMA prepares to conclude its academic year on Saturday, May 17, 2025, a time-honored tradition will mark the transition of cadet leadership within the corps. During Final Formation and Au Revoir, the “Davison Saber” is ceremoniously transferred to the incoming cadet battalion commander — a symbolic gesture representing the continuity of leadership, legacy and MMA brotherhood.

Missouri Military Academy cadets in formation in front of brick building

On April 23, 2025, Missouri Military Academy announced new cadet leadership and promotions. Anuar Hidalgo and Braxton Phasey were named Squad Leaders, and cadets were promoted from Private Second Class to Captain, recognizing their dedication and leadership within the 136th Corps of Cadets.

Military academy middle school cadet in uniform and tie

Cadet Jesus Beltran Gonzalez earned the title of state champion in the 400-meter run at the Missouri state middle school track and field championships, held Saturday, April 26, 2025. Beltran, an 8th grader from St. Michael, Minnesota, secured first place with a time of 55.01 seconds, setting a new state middle school record for the event.

Michael Harper, new Director for Development at Missouri Military Academy

Missouri Military Academy has named Michael Harper as its new director for development, effective April 7, 2025. Harper brings extensive experience in fundraising and marketing from roles across multiple universities and nonprofits. In his new position, he will focus on building relationships and securing resources to support MMA’s mission and cadets.

Cadet News

Missouri Military Academy Interim Commandant of Cadets Major Wayne Welander stands in his military uniform against a backdrop of the American and MMA flags.

Missouri Military Academy has designated MAJ Wayne Welander, USA (Ret), to serve as interim commandant of cadets at the college preparatory military boarding school. Currently the senior Army instructor, Welander assumes the commandant’s duties of overseeing residential life, fostering self-discipline, personal responsibility and accountability with the Academy’s middle and high school cadets, guiding them in taking command of their lives. 

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