Burke resident graduates first in USNA class ‘08
By Meredith Dumm
When newly commissioned Ensign Victoria Moore tossed her hat high in the air at the end of the United States Naval Academy commencement exercises on Friday, May 23, she recalls her emotions as “total relief.”Moore, daughter of Ed and Lisa Moore of Burke, and 2004 graduate of Robinson Secondary School, ranked first academically among 1,054 USNA graduates, earning a B.S. in information technology National Security Affairs and a minor in French with distinction.
Moore’s USNA academic awards include the prestigious George J. Mitchell Scholarship for postgraduate studies. She will pursue a master’s degree in Development at Dublin City University, Ireland, before heading to San Diego to train as a surface warfare officer.
Among her athletic achievements as a nationally ranked runner on the cross country and track teams, Moore clocked the second fastest 1,000 meter time in USNA history (2:52.80). She was named the Patriot League Women’s Indoor and Outdoor Scholar Athlete of the Year and also received an NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship award for academic and athletic excellence.
Asked why she had aspired to attend the rigorous academy, Moore cited family legacy: her father graduated from the USNA, class of 1970, and her mother retired as a lieutenant colonel in the Marine Corps. “Besides,” she added, “I wanted a challenge.”
Reflecting on her four-year experience, Moore said, “It wasn’t easy and, without my good friendships here, I’m not sure I would have made it through.” Moore did not merely rise to the challenge and make it through; she earned her place at the top.