The Watson School of International and Public Affairs celebrated its July opening in a Saturday launch event that featured keynote speaker Gen. Mark Milley, former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff — the country’s top-ranking military officer — between 2019 and 2023.
In his speech, Milley shared a historical perspective on the current political moment, identifying threats to the world and domestic order and encouraging students to defend American values.
Before he ascended to the position in September 2019, Milley grew up in a military family — the son of two World War II veterans. At the event, Milley said he similarly joined the military to defend the values of the U.S. Constitution, despite his father’s objections.
Milley began his term under President Trump’s first administration, and clashed with the president in several high-profile conflicts. He retired in September 2023, two years into former President Joe Biden’s administration.