Walter "Ted" Carter Jr.

Walter "Ted" Carter Jr. is a retired United States Navy vice admiral and academic administrator renowned for his distinguished military service and leadership in higher education. He served as the 62nd Superintendent of the United States Naval Academy and later as the eighth President of the University of Nebraska System. A decorated naval aviator, Carter's career spanned nearly four decades, including combat missions during Operation Desert Storm and the Iraq War.

Early life and education

Walter "Ted" Carter Jr. was born on September 16, 1955, in Burrillville, Rhode Island. He received his commission after graduating from the United States Naval Academy in 1981 with a Bachelor of Science degree. Carter furthered his military education at the prestigious Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island, earning a Master of Arts degree in National Security and Strategic Studies. He also completed coursework at the Armed Forces Staff College in Norfolk, Virginia, and the Air Command and Staff College at Maxwell Air Force Base.

Naval career

Commissioned as a naval flight officer, Carter transitioned to become a naval aviator and flew the F-4 Phantom II and F-14 Tomcat before becoming an instructor in the F/A-18 Hornet. His operational commands included Strike Fighter Squadron 131 and Strike Fighter Squadron 15, and he later commanded Carrier Air Wing Seven aboard the USS ''Dwight D. Eisenhower''. Carter served as Commander of the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center at Naval Air Station Fallon and held key staff positions, including Deputy Director of the Joint Force Development Directorate within the Joint Chiefs of Staff. His combat deployments included missions during Operation Desert Storm and the Iraq War, earning him awards such as the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Bronze Star Medal.

Superintendent of the United States Naval Academy

Appointed by President Barack Obama, Carter became the 62nd Superintendent of the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland in July 2014. His tenure focused on modernizing the institution's academic programs, enhancing character development, and strengthening the Brigade of Midshipmen's readiness. Carter oversaw significant initiatives in cyber security education and emphasized ethics and integrity following the 2012 sexual assault scandal at the United States Air Force Academy. He retired from the United States Navy in 2019 after nearly 38 years of service.

President of the University of Nebraska System

In January 2020, Carter was selected as the eighth President of the University of Nebraska System, leading its four campuses: the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, the University of Nebraska at Omaha, the University of Nebraska at Kearney, and the University of Nebraska Medical Center. His presidency navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic while launching the "Systemwide Strategic Framework" to enhance affordability, research, and workforce development. Carter also championed the Nebraska Promise program, offering free tuition to eligible students, and oversaw major projects like the Nebraska Veterinary Diagnostic Center.

Later career and legacy

After concluding his presidency in 2023, Carter returned to advisory and board roles, contributing to organizations focused on national security and education. His legacy is marked by transformative leadership at both the United States Naval Academy and the University of Nebraska System, where he emphasized strategic growth, academic excellence, and public service. Carter's military honors include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Navy Distinguished Service Medal, and four awards of the Legion of Merit.

Category:1955 births Category:Living people Category:United States Naval Academy alumni Category:United States Navy vice admirals Category:Superintendents of the United States Naval Academy Category:Presidents of the University of Nebraska System