The Citadel names Walters new president

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The Citadel has named alumnus Gen. Glenn M. Walters, who is currently serving as the assistant commandant of the Marine Corps, as the college’s 20th president.

Walters, who graduated from The Citadel in 1979 with a degree in electrical engineering, was one of four finalists for president.

Prior to his current role in the Marine Corps, Walters served as deputy commandant for programs and resources; commanding general of the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, including commander of the forward deployed 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing in Helmand Province, Afghanistan; and deputy director of Joint Staff J-8.

Walters will take over for Lt. Gen. John W. Rosa, who announced last year that he would retire from The Citadel effective June 30. Rosa has served as president of the military college since 2006.

“I’m delighted with our selection of Gen. Glenn Walters as 20th president of The Citadel,” Col. Fred L. Price, chairman of The Citadel board of visitors, said in a statement. “His extraordinary 39-year career serving our country as a principled leader, aviator and Marine Corps officer prepared him perfectly to serve his alma mater as successor to John Rosa.”

A spokeswoman for The Citadel said a start date has not been set for Walters because he must retire from active duty to assume the presidency. An interim president will be named at the board of visitors meeting later this month.

In a statement, Walters said it’s an honor to be asked to lead his alma mater.

“I look forward to returning to Charleston and continuing the superb work that John and Donna Rosa have done to advance our beloved institution,” he said. “I feel like I’m coming home.”