Meet the Current President of The Citadel
For those curious about the leadership of The Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina, the answer to "Who is the current president of The Citadel?" is Lieutenant General Jeffrey B. "Jeff" Burgess. He assumed leadership of this distinguished institution on July 1, 2021, bringing a wealth of experience from his illustrious military career and his previous impactful roles in education and leadership development.
A Distinguished Career Path
Lieutenant General Burgess's journey to the presidency of The Citadel is marked by a deep commitment to service and a profound understanding of leadership. His military career spanned over three decades, culminating in his service as the Commanding General of the U.S. Army Cadet Command. In this pivotal role, he was responsible for the training and development of approximately 10,000 Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) cadets across more than 270 universities and colleges nationwide. This experience provided him with an unparalleled insight into the intricacies of developing future leaders and the importance of a rigorous, disciplined educational environment – principles that are at the very core of The Citadel's mission.
Prior to His Citadel Tenure
Before taking the helm at The Citadel, Lieutenant General Burgess also served as the Deputy Commanding General and Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC). TRADOC is the birthplace of the Army's concepts and is the training agent for all soldiers, leading to the development of leaders who are capable of winning across the full spectrum of military operations. His leadership in these high-level command positions underscores his proven ability to manage large organizations, implement strategic initiatives, and foster an environment of excellence.
His transition from a distinguished military career to leading one of the nation's premier leadership development institutions is a testament to his dedication to shaping the next generation of principled leaders, not only for military service but also for impactful careers in civilian sectors.
The Citadel's Mission and President Burgess's Vision
The Citadel is renowned for its unique approach to education, which combines a rigorous academic program with a demanding military-style training system. The goal is to instill in its graduates the values of honor, duty, and respect, preparing them to be leaders of character in all walks of life. Under President Burgess's leadership, The Citadel continues to build upon this strong foundation, focusing on:
- Enhancing academic excellence and innovation.
- Strengthening the South Carolina Corps of Cadets' training and development programs.
- Expanding opportunities for all students, including the growing number of veteran and active duty military students, and traditional undergraduate students.
- Fostering a culture of inclusivity and community.
- Ensuring the continued financial strength and sustainability of the college.
President Burgess often speaks about the enduring relevance of The Citadel's unique educational model in today's complex world. He emphasizes the critical need for ethical leadership, critical thinking, and resilience – qualities that are deeply embedded in the Citadel experience.
Impact on The Citadel Community
Since his arrival, President Burgess has been actively engaged with the entire Citadel community, including cadets, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters. His approachable demeanor and clear vision have resonated throughout the campus. He is committed to ensuring that The Citadel remains at the forefront of leadership education, adapting to the evolving needs of society while upholding its time-honored traditions and values.
The Citadel's legacy is one of excellence and character. My commitment is to build upon that legacy, ensuring that our graduates are not only academically prepared but are also instilled with the integrity and leadership skills necessary to make a positive impact on the world.
- Lieutenant General Jeffrey B. Burgess
His leadership is instrumental in guiding The Citadel through its next chapter, solidifying its position as a leader in developing principled leaders for America and the world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How is The Citadel different from other universities?
The Citadel is unique because it is a state-supported, senior military college. While it offers traditional academic programs and degrees, all undergraduate students are part of the South Carolina Corps of Cadets, which involves a structured military-style training and discipline regimen aimed at developing leadership, character, and physical fitness, alongside their academic pursuits.
Why is The Citadel called a "military college"?
It is designated as a military college because of its historical roots and its core mission of developing commissioned officers for the U.S. Armed Forces. While not all graduates commission into the military, all undergraduate students participate in the Corps of Cadets system, which mirrors military structure and emphasizes discipline, leadership, and service.
What is the role of the President at The Citadel?
The President of The Citadel serves as the chief executive officer of the institution. This role involves overseeing all academic, administrative, and operational functions, setting strategic direction, managing the budget, fostering relationships with stakeholders, and ultimately being responsible for the overall success and well-being of the college and its students.
