LtGen Michael Borgschulte Becomes Naval Academy Superintendent

Summary:

LtGen Michael Borgschulte has become the first Marine Corps officer appointed as superintendent of the U.S. Naval Academy, marking a historic milestone. A 1991 USNA graduate and seasoned combat veteran, Borgschulte brings decades of leadership to the Yard as he guides the next generation of Navy and Marine Corps officers with a focus on excellence, discipline, and service.

The United States Naval Academy has been training future naval leaders for 180 years, but this year marks a historic first. On August 15, 2025, LtGen Michael Borgschulte was sworn in as the 66th USNA superintendent, becoming the first Marine Corps officer ever to hold this prestigious role. It’s a moment that both honors tradition and embraces progress, as the Academy looks toward the future with Borgschulte at the helm.

The baton was passed from Vice Admiral Yvette Davids, U.S. Naval Academy Class of 1989, who became the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Operations, Plans, Strategy, and Warfighting Development. In his “Change of Command” speech at that ceremony, United States Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan noted “VADM Davids’ experience, operational record, and strategic mind made her the natural fit for the job…. She is best equipped to guide our Navy through the challenges of this decade from a new era of warfare defined by drones, artificial intelligence, and autonomy to strategic competition with near-peer adversaries.”

A Marine Corps Leader Steps Into a New Role

LtGen Borgschulte brings with him a distinguished career spanning more than three decades of service in the U.S. Marine Corps. A career Marine Corps aviator and combat leader, LtGen Borgschulte has completed assignments across various MEUs (Marine Expeditionary Units), Marine Aircraft Groups, and joint commands, including three combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Throughout his service, he has helped lead sailors and marines at all levels, earned distinction at the Naval War College, and served in key operational and strategic billets across the Marine Corps and Joint Staff.

Most recently, he served as deputy commandant for Manpower and Reserve Affairs at Quantico, Virginia. In this role, he gained a reputation for his steady leadership, strategic vision, and deep commitment to supporting marines and their families. In fact, he spearheaded the highest recruitment and retention in Marine Corps history, and Phelan noted “he will build on the successes of Vice Admiral Davids and previous superintendents by further cultivating a culture of winning and warfighting here at the Academy.” That experience - combining on-the-ground leadership with long-term strategic planning - positions him uniquely to guide the Brigade of Midshipmen as they prepare to serve both the Navy and Marine Corps.

A First in Academy History

The appointment of a Marine as U.S. Naval Academy superintendent is more than symbolic. It underscores the close and enduring partnership between the Navy and the Marine Corps. For 180 years, the Academy has prepared officers for both branches, with roughly a quarter of each graduating class commissioning into the Marine Corps. This year, the U.S. Naval Academy commissioned 776 Navy ensigns and 258 second lieutenants in the Marine Corps.

Borgschulte’s leadership brings the Marine Corps perspective directly into the Academy’s highest office, providing midshipmen with an example of the Corps’ values - honor, courage, and commitment - lived out at the very top. He’s a USNA graduate of the Class of 1991, and he played linebacker while studying at USNA.

Plans for the Future

As the new USNA superintendent, LtGen Borgschulte has made it clear that his focus will remain on the Academy’s core mission: developing midshipmen morally, mentally, and physically for leadership roles in the Navy and Marine Corps. But he is also looking forward to tackling the challenges of a rapidly changing world and continuing to instill a warrior mentality. Phelan said, “He is focused on shaping midshipmen into leaders you want to follow in battle. His ethos: Mission first, people always…ruthlessly focusing on high standards, high expectations, and strict discipline.”

Visit the Yard and Show Your Support

While LtGen Borgschulte leads from the top, the success of the Naval Academy is also shaped by the support of its community and visitors. Every time you step onto the Yard, you’re part of the Academy’s story. And there are plenty of ways to enjoy your visit while also giving back to the Brigade of Midshipmen.

Take a USNA Tour: Explore the Academy’s rich history and traditions with a guided tour. You’ll see iconic landmarks, learn fascinating stories, and walk the same paths as generations of naval leaders.
Enjoy a Meal on the Yard: From Chesapeake-inspired cuisine at the Alley to casual bites at Drydock Restaurant or 1845 Coffee, dining at the Academy means enjoying great food while directly supporting midshipmen programs.
Pick Up a Souvenir: Stop by the USNA Gift Shop or shop online at Navyonline.com for REAL Navy gear, gifts, and memorabilia. Every purchase supports extracurricular activities like the cultural arts, music, theater, and club sports that enrich midshipman life.

A New Era Begins

The appointment of LtGen Michael Borgschulte as the 66th USNA superintendent is a historic moment that blends tradition with innovation. His Marine Corps perspective, proven leadership, and dedication to developing the next generation of naval leaders make him an inspiring choice to guide the Academy into the future.

So this holiday season (or anytime) make plans to visit the Yard. Take in the history, enjoy a delicious meal, grab a souvenir or two, and know your visit helps prepare tomorrow’s leaders. With a new superintendent at the helm, the Naval Academy’s future is bright, and there’s no better time to be a part of its story.

On The Yard