Brad Carson, American lawyer and politician, United States Under Secretary of the Army

Brad Rogers Carson, born on March 11, 1967, is an accomplished American lawyer and politician hailing from Oklahoma. His distinguished career spans various high-profile roles in government, including a significant tenure as the Acting Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, and later, a notable leadership position in academia as the 21st President of the University of Tulsa.

A Career in Public Service: From Congress to the Pentagon

A member of the Democratic Party, Carson first made his mark in Washington D.C. as a representative for Oklahoma in the United States House of Representatives, serving diligently from 2001 to 2005. His legislative career then transitioned seamlessly into executive roles within the Department of Defense, showcasing his deep commitment to national service and policy implementation.

Leadership and Reform at the Department of Defense

From 2012 to 2014, Carson served as the General Counsel of the Army, providing crucial legal guidance and oversight to the military branch. He then ascended to the influential role of Under Secretary of the Army from 2014 to 2015. His impact continued to grow as he took on the critical position of Acting Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness from 2015 to 2016. In this capacity, Brad Rogers Carson initiated several groundbreaking reforms that reshaped military policy and fostered inclusivity. These included the historic decision to open all combat positions to women, allowing open service by transgender service members, and implementing new, modernized recruiting and retention practices aimed at strengthening the armed forces for the future.

A Unique Distinction: Serving in War After Voting For It

One of the most remarkable and poignant aspects of Carson’s career is his personal experience with the Iraq War. He holds the unique distinction of being the only person to have voted on the authorization of the Iraq War during his time in Congress and to have subsequently fought in it himself. This embodies a rare and profound commitment to the decisions he helped enact, adding a powerful layer of personal sacrifice to his public service.

Transition to Academia and Private Sector

Following his extensive government service, Brad Rogers Carson transitioned into both the private sector and higher education, continuing to leverage his vast experience in leadership and strategy. He currently serves as a senior advisor at the Boston Consulting Group, lending his expertise to strategic planning and complex problem-solving. For two years, he also contributed significantly to the academic world as a Professor of Public Policy at the University of Virginia's esteemed Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy, shaping the next generation of leaders.

President of the University of Tulsa

On April 5, 2021, the University of Tulsa announced a significant new chapter for Carson, selecting him to be their 21st president. He officially assumed this prestigious role on July 1, 2021, bringing his wealth of leadership, public policy acumen, and administrative experience to the academic institution, further enriching its legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions about Brad Rogers Carson

Who is Brad Rogers Carson?

Brad Rogers Carson is an American lawyer, politician, and academic from Oklahoma, known for his service in the U.S. House of Representatives, high-level roles in the Department of Defense, and his current position as President of the University of Tulsa.

What significant reforms did he initiate in the Department of Defense?

As Acting Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, he initiated notable reforms including opening all combat positions to women, allowing open service by transgender service members, and introducing new recruiting and retention practices.

What is his unique distinction regarding the Iraq War?

He is the only individual known to have voted on the authorization of the Iraq War in Congress and subsequently served in it himself.

When did he become President of the University of Tulsa?

Brad Rogers Carson was announced as the 21st president of the University of Tulsa on April 5, 2021, and officially took office on July 1, 2021.

What other prominent roles has he held?

Beyond his Department of Defense roles and congressional service, he has been a Professor of Public Policy at the University of Virginia's Frank Batten School and is currently a senior advisor at the Boston Consulting Group.