Contact: Wymer
Leadership and Service on the Air Force Academy Governing Board Recognized
“It has been an honor and a privilege to work with the Academy as a member of the Board of Visitors over the last 10 years,” said Allard. “The Air Force Academy is one of the finest institutions of higher education in the country and I have tremendously appreciated the chance to immerse myself in the details of the Academy. The standards of morality and the work ethic instilled in Air Force Academy students supplement cutting edge curriculum in the classroom and colleges and universities around the nation should always be able to consider the Air Force Academy as an example of excellence.”
The Distinguished Public Service Award, awarded by the Secretary of the Air Force, stated:
“Senator Wayne Allard distinguished himself by service as a member of the United States Air Force Academy Board of Visitors, an oversight board in the executive branch of the government established to inquire into the morale, discipline, social climate, curriculum, instruction, physical equipment, fiscal affairs, academic methods, and other matters relating to the United States Air Force Academy from 25 February 1999 to 20 November 2008.”
“As an energetic supporter of the Academy, he championed increasing the frequency of annual Board meetings, which renewed emphasis on the oversight role of the Board. He also helped initiate cadet panel meetings to obtain critical cadet insights and secured increases in cadet pay. During one of the most challenging periods in Academy history, Senator Allard led efforts to conduct a thorough and professional survey addressing national concerns with the service academies sexual harassment climate, culminating in significant reforms throughout the Defense Department.”
“Finally, he spearheaded efforts to obtain a master infrastructure recapitalization plan for the Academy, which garnered over 750 million dollars to repair and protect the historically significant campus. The Secretary of the Air Force Distinguished Public Service Award is presented to Senator Allard for his outstanding leadership and faithful service to the United States and the United States Air Force.”