Captain Thomas J. “TJ” Grady ’96, USN (Ret.), joins U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation as Executive Vice President, Engagement and Communications
For immediate release: 10 January 2023
Annapolis, MD - The United States Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation has named Captain Thomas J. “TJ” Grady ’96, USN (Ret.), as its new Executive Vice President, Engagement and Communications. Grady spent over 26 years in Naval Aviation and the past two years helping build a company focused on eliminating single-use plastic drinking bottles for a more sustainable environment. He has previously served the organization as a volunteer leader, donor, and Athletic and Scholarship Program Trustee since 2014. The recruiting firm Heidrick and Struggles assisted in the search.
“I couldn’t be more pleased that TJ is joining the Alumni Association and Foundation,” said Alumni Association and Foundation President and CEO Jeff Webb ‘95. “We had many outstanding alumni express interest in this position, but in the end, TJ was the best fit for us. His exceptional track record as a leader both in and out of uniform, entrepreneurial experience, and passion for the Naval Academy were highly evident throughout the interview process.”
During his time as a naval aviator, Grady amassed more than 3,000 hours in the P-3C Orion and P-8A Poseidon. He served as the Commanding Officer of the VP-45 “Pelicans” and the VP-30 “Pros Nest.” His shore assignments included duty as the Deputy Commandant of Midshipmen (2017 to 2019).
“His humility, affability, and sincere interest in others will serve him well as the leader of our engagement and communication teams,” Webb continued. “I am looking forward to partnering with him as we continue our Strategic Plan 2030 efforts and prepare for the commissioning of the Alumni Center.”
Grady brings a unique blend of experience to the role that will serve him and the enterprise well. He will partner with colleagues in advancing the objectives of the overall enterprise, leading a diverse staff responsible for the delivery of engagement programs to the 69,000-plus community.
“My family and I are extremely humbled and grateful for this new and exciting opportunity,” Grady said. “To be able to serve the Naval Academy and its alumni community, both of whom we love so much, is a tremendous honor and privilege. I very much look forward to joining such a talented staff and serving alongside our volunteer leaders to deliver the programs and services our alumni most value.”
Grady earned a B.S. in Economics from the Naval Academy, where he was captain of the soccer team. He later earned graduate degrees from both American Military University and The Naval War College. He is married to Christine Grady and together they have two children, Lindsey and Gavin. Gavin will join the Class of 2027 this summer. Grady will report on 6 February, moving his family from Jacksonville, Florida.
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The United States Naval Academy Alumni Association and the United States Naval Academy Foundation are two independent, not-for-profit non-stock Maryland corporations operating as an integrated organization in support of the Naval Academy and its mission with more than 69,000 members, 77 active alumni classes, and 102 chapters around the world. For more information, visit www.usna.com or email us.