2nd Lt. Hayley Farmer excelled on a number of fronts after joining the University of North Georgia's (UNG) Corps of Cadets. Then less than a year after graduating, she became the first woman to graduate from Ranger School after commissioning as an officer from UNG.
While at UNG, she was a part of three top-four Ranger Challenge teams at the Sandhurst Military Skills Competition, each of which won the ROTC title. Farmer also earned the USAA Warrior Ethos Award for outstanding performance at Advanced Camp at Fort Knox, Kentucky, the summer before her senior year.
The Ranger Challenge specialty unit was an integral part of her growth. She particularly appreciated the guidance she received from retired Maj. Donovan Duke, who coaches UNG's Ranger Challenge team.
"He trains us on tactical elements," Farmer said. "But he tries to relate it back to the bigger picture."
Farmer has taken those lessons to heart. After completing Advanced Camp in summer 2021, she helped mentor younger cadets at Basic Camp, also at Fort Knox.
"Camp reassured me that attending UNG was the best decision I've made for my career thus far," Farmer said.
The Griffin, Georgia, native was the commander of Golf Company her senior year and aimed to help her fellow cadets embody a relentless mentality in pursuit of excellence. In addition to being selfless and checking on others when they're struggling, Farmer said leadership requires a humble approach.
"Leaders might not always have the answers," she said. "But they know where to help people get answers."
Farmer, who earned a degree in criminal justice in May 2022 and was a Distinguished Military Graduate, said transparency about processes can be beneficial.
"Being able to relay why you're doing something to your subordinates goes a long way," she said. "It helps them understand your mission, and it makes you more relatable."
Ultimately, each leadership role for Farmer at UNG built upon the others.
"Having that experience brings more confidence," she said. "You get a reputation for being competent."
