As the new U.S. Secretary of Defense, Robert Gates '65, L.H.D. '98 will continue William and Mary's long tradition of producing public servants of quality and distinction. In November, Gates was nominated by President George W. Bush and later confirmed to replace outgoing Secretary Donald Rumsfeld.

Gates, who was a history major at the College, most recently served as president of Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas. He headed the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) from 1991 to 1993 as part of his 40 years in public service.

"Bob Gates will very soon remind the country that his life and work reflect his alma mater's tradition of engaged, ennobling public service," said William and Mary President Gene R. Nichol. "His service will add much to the considerable debt the College, and some of our friends in Texas, already owe for his fine leadership."

During his December confirmation hearings, Gates fielded questions from the Armed Services Committee. When Sen. Carl Levin (D.-Mich.) asked Gates whether he believed the U.S. was winning the war in Iraq, Gates said "No, sir." That characteristic frankness is hoped to bring a breath of fresh air to the Pentagon.

Sen. John Warner (R.-Va.), reiterating his comments from the 1991 CIA directorship hearings, said "Bob Gates is a very thoughtful man, an honest man, an experienced official, a good analyst, a no-nonsense manager, and a man with a vision of the future direction of the role of U.S. intelligence."

Bush introduced Gates on Nov. 8 as his nominee to replace Rumsfeld, who stepped down after serving as defense secretary since 2001. Gates brings to Washington a wealth of experience in working with presidential administrations and in international affairs. From 1966 to 1993, Gates served in a variety of positions within the CIA and the National Security Council. He worked with six presidential administrations in various intelligence posts.

Gates was dedicated to service as an undergraduate at William and Mary. He was an active member of Alpha Phi Omega, which is a service-oriented organization, and he was elected the group's president during his senior year. He also served as a dormitory manager -- now known as resident advisers -- and helped entering students become acquainted with the College as an orientation aide. Gates was active in Young Republicans and served as the business manager of the William and Mary Review, a literary and art magazine.

During his graduation ceremony, Gates received the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award, which is given each year during the College's commencement exercises. Recipients are selected based on characteristics of heart, mind and helpfulness to others. In 1998, Gates received an honorary doctorate of humane letters from William and Mary. Two years later, the Alumni Association awarded him the Alumni Medallion.