Overview
- The board removed from its agenda measures to grant Charlie Kirk honorary Association of Graduates membership and to recommend the academy seek authority for an honorary degree.
- The AOG noted it lacks authority to award academy degrees under its bylaws, and no vote to confer any recognition occurred Friday.
- Association officials said several hundred graduates, parents and family members contacted them this week to share perspectives on the proposals.
- The motions were introduced by retired Lt. Gen. Rod Bishop, a Unity Slate–backed board member who argued Kirk exemplified values prized by graduates.
- Critics said Kirk’s brief connection to the academy did not meet the longstanding standards for such honors; he was appointed by President Donald Trump to the Board of Visitors in March, attended one meeting on Aug. 7, and was assassinated on Sept. 10.