The next president of Purdue University will be retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Jay B. Silveria, a former superintendent of the United State Air Force Academy.

The announcement was made Thursday at a special meeting of the university’s Board of Trustees.

Silveria is an experienced combat officer, having flown missions in Iraq and the Balkans. He became known as an effective leader and in 2017, was appointed superintendent of the Air Force Academy.

“This marked a significant career transition, moving from leading operational organizations, to leading an institution with an educational mission,” said Theresa Carter, board member.

From there he went on to lead the complex University of Arkansas system.

Board members believe that Silveria’s skills making complex and consequential decisions and making strategy, plus his leadership skills will put the university in a good position.

The search for the new president included taking surveys and finding out what people who had a significant stake in the university thought was best, in addition to the practical needs of the school and the board.