Hegseth Taps Five Universities for New Cadet Corps

Defense Secretary Todd Hegseth announced on October 2, 2026, that five universities will partner to develop a new cadet corps. The selected institutions are Hillsdale College, Liberty University, Louisiana State University (LSU), Mississippi State University, and Tuskegee University. This initiative aims to cultivate a new generation of leaders and service members, with the specific structure and curriculum of the cadet corps to be developed collaboratively by these universities.

During the announcement, Hegseth expressed strong criticism of certain Ivy League and liberal arts institutions, characterizing them as "anti-American, DEI-worshipping woke factories." He contrasted these institutions with the chosen partners, implying that the latter are more aligned with patriotic values and a commitment to national service. The selection of these five universities suggests a focus on institutions with varying profiles, including private liberal arts colleges, large public research universities, and historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), indicating a broad approach to recruitment and development.

Hillsdale College, a private liberal arts college in Michigan, is known for its classical education and emphasis on American civics and constitutional principles. Liberty University, a private Christian university in Virginia, has a strong focus on faith and service. Louisiana State University, a major public research university in Louisiana, offers a wide range of academic programs and a significant ROTC presence. Mississippi State University, another large public research institution in Mississippi, also has established military training programs. Tuskegee University, a private HBCU in Alabama, has a historic legacy of educating African Americans and has played a significant role in military aviation and engineering.

The establishment of this new cadet corps by the Department of Defense signifies a strategic effort to bolster the pipeline of future military officers and leaders. By partnering with these diverse institutions, the department seeks to tap into a wider pool of talent and foster a sense of civic duty and national pride among students. The initiative's success will likely depend on the effective collaboration between the universities and the Department of Defense in designing a program that is both rigorous and appealing to a broad range of students.