Charles Q Brown

General Charles Q. Brown, Jr. served as the 21st Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff—the nation’s highest-ranking military officer and senior military advisor to the President, Secretary of Defense, and National Security Council.

He now serves as an Executive-in-Residence at Duke University, jointly appointed in the Sanford School of Public Policy and the Pratt School of Engineering. He retired from the U.S. Air Force after nearly 40 years of service, including as the 22nd Chief of Staff and the first African American to lead a military service. A command pilot with 3,100+ flying hours—primarily in the F-16—he led coalition operations across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

He holds a B.S. in civil engineering from Texas Tech University and a master’s in aeronautical science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People, he enjoys NFL football, exploring good food, and smoking a mean brisket. He holds being a husband, father, son, and brother among his most valued roles.