Department of War Names Tuskegee University a Distinguished Military College

Crystal Drake 30 September 2026 4 minute read

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Watch the video above of Dr. Mark A. Brown sharing his perspective on this historic honor.

Contact: Crystal Drake, Office of Strategic Communications

Tuskegee University is proud to announce it has been designated as a Distinguished Military College (DMC) by the Department of War. Tuskegee, one of five institutions announced today, becomes the nation's only Historically Black College and University (HBCU) to receive the prestigious designation.

The historic milestone honors more than a century of service to the United States while positioning Tuskegee for the continued growth of a full Corps of Cadets and expanded leadership development opportunities for future generations.

Currently, 197 students are training in Tuskegee’s ROTC program in five branches of the U.S. Armed Services.

"Tuskegee University is deeply honored and grateful for its designation as a Distinguished Military College by the Department of War and the Secretary of War," said Dr. Mark A. Brown ‘86, President and CEO of Tuskegee University. "This recognition affirms more than a century of service to our nation and charts an exciting path toward the continued growth of a full Corps of Cadets at Tuskegee University. It reflects our enduring commitment to leadership, excellence, and national service."

Dr. Brown adds that this achievement was championed by Greg Nixon ’85 who has been advocating for his alma mater for many years. Nixon is a retired Air Force Judge Advocate (Lt. Colonel) and has served as an active member of the university’s Board of Trustees since 2018.

The Distinguished Military College designation is reserved for institutions recognized for excellence in military leadership development, officer production, academic achievement, and service to the nation. The designation places Tuskegee among a select group of colleges and universities whose military programs have demonstrated exceptional contributions to the development of future military and civilian leaders.

For nearly 145 years, Tuskegee University has answered the nation's call to service. Founded in 1881 by Booker T. Washington, the institution has developed generations of leaders who have distinguished themselves in military service, government, science, business, medicine, education, and public life.

Today, Tuskegee stands alone among American universities in its ability to provide pathways to military commissions across all five branches of the United States Armed Forces. Through its military education and leadership programs, the university continues to prepare students for careers of service and leadership throughout the nation.

Tuskegee's military legacy includes some of the most influential figures in American military history.

Among them are General Benjamin O. Davis Sr., the first African American General Officer in United States military history; General Benjamin O. Davis Jr., commander of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen and the first African American General in the United States Air Force; and General Daniel "Chappie" James Jr., a Tuskegee graduate who became the first African American Four-Star General in American history.

The university is well known as the home of the Tuskegee Airmen, whose courage, professionalism, and combat achievements during World War II transformed the United States military and helped advance racial integration throughout the Armed Forces.

"Our military heritage rests upon the shoulders of giants," Dr. Brown said. "Long before opportunity was guaranteed, Tuskegee fought for the right to serve. Our graduates went on to defend this nation in every major conflict of the modern era, proving that excellence, leadership, and patriotism know no boundaries."

Dr. Brown noted that the designation is not solely about honoring the past, but about creating opportunities for the future. He anticipates new opportunities for research partnerships, infrastructure investment, economic development initiatives, and collaboration with government and industry partners to grow from this designation.

Dr. Brown is also certain it will increase Tuskegee’s extraordinary record of military servant leadership because it will strengthen student recruitment efforts, attract high-achieving young men and women committed to leadership and public service, and create expanded scholarship opportunities.

A 1986 graduate of Tuskegee University and an Air Force ROTC commissionee, Brown served more than 32 years in the United States Air Force, reaching the rank of Major General, before eventually returning to lead his alma mater following public and private sector leadership roles.

"This story is deeply personal for me," Brown said. "Tuskegee University provided the foundation that launched my military career and shaped my life. I know firsthand the transformative power of leadership education and military service. This designation will allow us to expand those opportunities for future generations of students."

The recognition also supports Tuskegee's strategic focus on preparing students for the global economy through academic programs critical to national security and economic competitiveness, including aviation, engineering, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, biotechnology, data science, space-related disciplines and political science.

"The Distinguished Military College designation recognizes what Tuskegee has contributed to our nation for generations," Dr. Brown said. "We remain focused on the future, and this honor positions us to contribute for many more generations to come. It strengthens our mission of developing leaders of character, competence, and commitment who will serve their communities, their professions, and their country."

As Tuskegee University looks toward the future, the designation stands as both recognition of a remarkable legacy and a call to continue preparing leaders ready to meet the challenges of an increasingly complex world.