Redefining the meaning of educational excellence, Navy Counselor 1st Class (AW/SW) Jason Lewis of Electronic Attack Squadron 134 developed Garuda University, a hands-on approach designed to familiarize Sailors with the educational opportunities and benefits provided by the U.S. Navy.

The program allows Garudas to complete necessary qualifications required for advancement while enhancing their professional development. Since its establishment in 2004, 119 personnel have enrolled in the United Services Military Apprenticeship Program, utilized nearly $100,000 in tuition assistance and completed over 450 college credits.

Within two months of checking into the squadron, Lewis established this exceptional educational qualification standard. For the first 14 years of his career, he served as an Operations Specialist and Antisubmarine Tactical Air Controller.

Then during his tour as a recruiter from 1998-2001, he discovered his niche was working with people. Lewis reported to USS Ford (FFG 54) assigned as the ships command career counselor in 2002.

“It was my dream job,” Lewis said. “I was able to help people learn about Navy programs and benefits that no one taught me growing up in the Navy.”

Then in August 2003, Lewis decided to cross-rate to Navy counselor.

“It was a little scary,” he said, “switching from a job I had spent the last 14 years doing to enter a new field, but it was that important to me. I would not change a single thing if I could do it over again.”

Inspired by his job as the CCC on Ford, Lewis created the educational program to include tuition assistance , Navy E-Learning, USMAP and qualification as an Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist.  Graduates earn 15 college credits, nine of which must utilize TA, complete fourcourses on the Navy E-Learning Web site, four Ninth House leadership courses and four non-resident training courses on the Naval Advancement Web site.

On completion of the curriculum, each graduate receives a Garuda University diploma, a service record entry, a four-day special liberty pass and are recognized for academic excellence with a Navy Achievement Medal. Most importantly, Garudas obtain qualifications and utilize tools the Navy offers for improving their knowledge and improving their chances for advancement.

A role model for all commands to follow, Garuda University has been recognized and praised by the Navy’s Center for Career Development in Millington, Tenn., and is under review for acceptance as a CNO “Best Practice.”

Lewis is transferring to Electronic Attack Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet, in February to continue his mentorship of junior Sailors in educational opportunities and advancement success.