The Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs at Princeton University announced today it will welcome former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Michael G. Mullen for the fall 2012 semester. As the Charles and Marie Robertson Visiting Professor, he will teach in the Wilson School's undergraduate program, where his coursework will examine the United States military, diplomacy, and international affairs.

Admiral Mullen retired last year after two two-year terms as the highest ranking U.S. military officer and senior military adviser to the president. Seen as among the most thoughtful and influential chairmen of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Mullen guided the U.S. military during a particularly challenging period, in two full-scale wars.   He was also involved in key aspects of U.S. diplomacy, forging vital relationships with some of the most complex actors on the world stage, such as Russia, Pakistan, and China.   Unusually for a top military officer, he emphasized the importance of diplomacy in U.S. national security and advocated expanding resources for the State Department and other U.S. civilian agencies.   He became the first chairman to focus on the need for a stable domestic economy as a prerequisite for a strong defense.

“It is a high honor and a distinct pleasure to welcome Admiral Mullen to the Woodrow Wilson School,” said Stephen Kotkin, the vice dean and the Rosengarten Professor of Modern and Contemporary History.   “More than many of his peers in highest U.S. office, Admiral Mullen sought to engage debate on our country's long-term strategic direction in the security realm writ large. This is a fantastic opportunity for our students to benefit from his thinking and experience.”

Mullen said he “couldn’t be more pleased to spend time with the Woodrow Wilson community.   I’m committed to investing in the rising generation, and the Wilson School’s top-flight student body holds many of America's future leaders.   An institution named after the president who founded the League of Nations symbolizes the kind of international role I think is critical for the United States. I’m looking forward to expanding my thinking – together with the students – on the intersection between the economy, U.S. security in its broadest dimensions, and our conduct of international affairs.”

Mullen was tapped to be chairman of the Joint Chiefs from his position as chief of Naval Operations. Previously, he served as commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe; commander, Allied Joint Force Command Naples; and the 32nd vice chief of Naval Operations. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1968, completed the advanced management program at the Harvard Business School and earned a master of science in operations research from the Naval Postgraduate School. He and his wife Deborah are also passionate about the health and welfare of U.S. troops and military families, and their connection to the American public.