Gene Palka
Director of Cadet Activities @United States Military Academy At West Point
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WORK HISTORY
Director of Cadet Activities @United States Military Academy At West Point
West Point, NY, US
Managed a team of 230 employees, overseeing auxiliary services for 4,400 cadets, 1,200 staff/faculty, family members, and sponsors at West Point. Administered the Cadet Activities Fund, ensuring financial stability for cadet programs. Directed a $27M operating budget, overseeing six retail locations (including the West Point Bookstore) and six Food & Beverage venues. Managed the monthly payroll and assets over $100M. Led DCA’s strategic communications, launching a DCA Instagram page that grew to 1,200+ followers in six months. Secured donor contributions, funding 121 cadet clubs, teams, and forums.
EDUCATION
Columbia University
MA, Psychology, Industrial and Organizational Psychology
United States Military Academy at West Point
BS, Geography, Human Geography
ABOUT GENE PALKA
West Point graduate and proven leader with 23 years of experience in leadership, management, and strategic planning across government, international, and commercial sectors. Currently serves as Director of Cadet Activities at West Point, managing all cadet auxiliary services, the Cadet Activities Fund, and a $27M budget, supporting 4,400 cadets and staff, faculty, and family members. Holds an MA in Organizational Psychology from Columbia University, with a strong track record of building and leading high-performing teams. Extensive experience in multinational operations, having planned and hosted large-scale NATO training conferences across Europe. Commanded a 600-soldier battalion, overseeing $200M in equipment and leading three combat deployments to Iraq. Managed $33M in reconstruction projects and trained Iraqi Army and police forces. Brings strategic leadership, operational expertise, and a global perspective to every mission.
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