California State University San Marcos
Jimmie “Jim” Gruny’s 30 years of service in the Marine Corps as an armor officer includes two combat tours in Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His personal decorations include the Legion of Merit with three gold stars, a Bronze Star with Valor, a Defense Meritorious Service Medal, a Meritorious Service Medal with two gold stars, a Navy Commendation Medal with Valor and two gold stars and a Combat Action Ribbon with gold star.
He currently serves as the community liaison officer for the Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego (MCRDSD) and the Western Recruiting Region. In this role, Mr. Gruny is pivotal in fostering high-level community engagement. Tasked with resolving conflicts between the depot and the City of San Diego, the Port of San Diego and the San Diego Airport Authority, his expertise is instrumental in bridging gaps and promoting unity between the military and civilian worlds, promoting a sense of shared purpose within the community.
As the proud parent of California State University San Marcos alumnus Jacob Gruny, Mr. Gruny’s unwavering commitment to the university’s educational and engagement objectives is deeply rooted. A first-generation college graduate, Mr. Gruny attributes his educational success to the Marine Corps. He has enthusiastically supported CSUSM’s engagement with the military community from the inception of its Military Affairs initiative and has facilitated introductions between CSUSM officials and education-focused personnel at MCRDSD, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton and Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. These connections have not only built meaningful relationships but also have resulted in tangible progress, including the implementation of a discounted credit-unit rate for active-duty students. Additionally, Mr. Gruny has been instrumental in promoting CSUSM programs to enlisted personnel, contributing significantly to the university’s outreach and impact. He consistently lends his support at military community events and supports CSUSM speakers and initiatives.
Beyond his distinguished service to the country, Mr. Gruny has long demonstrated his commitment to serving the local community in his work at the MCRDSD and his active support for CSUSM’s military outreach initiatives. His character is marked by integrity, humility and a genuine desire to make the world a better place, and his leadership and service have had an indelible impact on the region.
In recognition of his distinguished service to his country and to his community, the Board of Trustees of the California State University and California State University San Marcos are proud to confer upon Jimmie “Jim” Gruny the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.