Lt. Gen. Michael Borgschulte Named 66th Superintendent of Naval Academy

In a historic moment for the U.S. Naval Academy, a Marine Corps officer takes the helm for the first time in 180 years. On Friday, Lt. Gen. Michael Borgschulte took the oath of office as the 66th superintendent of the academy, signaling a significant transition for an institution renowned for shaping the careers of countless Navy and Marine Corps officers over the years.

Borgschulte, who graduated from the academy in 1991, has held the position of deputy commandant for Manpower and Reserve Affairs in Quantico, Virginia. During the change-of-command ceremony, he emphasized his commitment to honoring the academy’s legacy while preparing midshipmen to face the challenges of contemporary warfare.

“The purpose of the academy is not to chase after academic rankings or institutional honors — although we do have those — but to carry out a vital mission,” Borgschulte stated. “The objective is to cultivate the future leaders of the Navy and Marine Corps, individuals dedicated to safeguarding the liberties that we, as Americans, frequently overlook.”

Navy Secretary John Phelan lauded Borgschulte, highlighting his status as “a decorated naval aviator and a veteran of three combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.” He emphasized Borgschulte's achievements in managing unprecedented recruitment and retention levels within the Marine Corps. “Prepare yourselves, midshipmen,” Phelan announced. “Prepare for action.”

This year, the Naval Academy proudly commissioned 776 Navy ensigns alongside 258 Marine Corps second lieutenants, marking a significant achievement in military training and leadership development.

Borgschulte takes over from Vice Adm. Yvette Davids, who made history in January 2024 as the first woman to lead the academy. Davids is set to move to the Pentagon, where he will take on the role of deputy chief of naval operations, focusing on operations, plans, strategy, and warfighting development.

Phelan praised Davids’ time in office, describing her as “the natural fit” for her new role. “Vice Adm. Davids’ extensive experience, impressive operational record, and strategic acumen position her as the ideal candidate for the role, promising to benefit both her and the Navy in the times ahead,” he stated.