Restoration News reported that the U.S. Naval Academy Board of Visitors convened on September 8 in Washington, D.C., amid discussions about ending diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies to restore a merit-based focus on preparing military leaders.
The Board of Visitors serves as the official oversight body for the U.S. Naval Academy. According to the academy, the board evaluates areas such as curriculum, discipline, fiscal affairs, and midshipmen morale, subsequently submitting annual reports to the president. Its membership comprises senators, representatives, and presidential appointees. Currently, Senator Dan Sullivan is serving as chair and Representative Rob Wittman as vice chair, highlighting its bipartisan mandate.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion programs at military academies have become a focal point of national political debate. Military Times reported that House Republicans have introduced provisions in defense legislation targeting DEI policies at these academies. They argue that such policies undermine the primary mission of building effective warfighters. These efforts mirror broader disputes within the Pentagon regarding whether identity-focused initiatives strengthen or weaken the armed forces.
Leadership changes at the Naval Academy indicate a shift in direction. According to the U.S. Naval Institute, Lieutenant General Michael Borgschulte became the first Marine in history to serve as superintendent in July 2024. He pledged to refocus the academy on its "sacred mission" of training Navy and Marine officers. Borgschulte's appointment followed Vice Admiral Yvette Davids' tenure during which the academy faced legal challenges related to admissions policies and criticism for embracing diversity initiatives.
Restoration News is part of Restoration of America, a conservative investigative and commentary outlet. According to its official website, it emphasizes reporting on politics, culture, immigration, economics, and military readiness from an America First perspective. The organization publishes investigative exposés, daily news coverage, and multimedia programming such as Restoration Spotlight with the said goal of holding institutions accountable and informing readers about issues affecting American sovereignty.
