Harvard University has more than 100 students in the Reserve Officer Training Corps. They will receive their diplomas and then potentially serve in the military under a defense secretary who, according to reports, has expressed contempt for their education and alma mater.
In a statement issued Friday, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth charged that Harvard is graduating officers with “heads full of globalist and radical ideologies that do not improve our fighting ranks.” He declared the Pentagon would cut all ties with Harvard and its programs.
Hegseth’s characterization suggests students are being indoctrinated with extreme ideologies, a claim observers say is inaccurate. However, Hegseth appears to be using Harvard as a symbol to express broader anxieties and resentments, according to analysis. He himself holds a master’s degree from Harvard’s John F. Kennedy School of Government, symbolically returning his diploma in 2022.
Although Hegseth said he would examine Defense Department involvement at “other” schools, he specifically mentioned the Ivy League. This comes after President Donald Trump has repeatedly targeted elite universities, a shift in Republican views that occurred after Trump’s election in 2016.
The timing of Hegseth’s announcement appears linked to a recent development involving President Trump. For months, Trump had been seeking a settlement from Harvard, initially requesting $200 million, but reportedly increased that demand to $1 billion after talks seemed to stall. This new figure was announced on social media.
Following Trump’s escalation, Hegseth announced the severing of ties with Harvard, a move described as similar to his involvement in the administration’s immigration policies. Hegseth added that he would be reviewing the Defense Department’s involvement with graduate programs at Ivy League and other civilian universities. Harvard officials stated they are assessing the implications of Hegseth’s announcement, which could affect graduate students across various divisions.
The decision impacts programs developed in response to past concerns within the Air Force. Following a series of scandals involving nuclear weapons, the Air Force sought to improve understanding of nuclear issues among its personnel. This led to collaboration with Harvard’s Extension School to create courses on international relations and nuclear weapons, culminating in a Nuclear Deterrence Graduate Certificate program.
The courses were designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of nuclear strategy, arms control, and deterrence, and were open to both military personnel and civilians. The curriculum focused on historical analysis and strategic concepts, rather than ideological indoctrination.
A diffuse resentment about education, and an underlying sense of insecurity, seem to afflict many in Trump’s circle. Trump, Steve Bannon, and Vice President Vance all attended elite schools but appear to harbor anger towards institutions that they felt did not fully embrace them. Hegseth himself, in a 2013 thesis, advocated for improving educational opportunities for all, but later aligned himself with media outlets and political movements that promote more divisive rhetoric.
Hegseth’s announcement reflects a desire for acceptance from elite institutions, but the purpose of sending military personnel to universities is not to seek validation. Rather, This proves to broaden their understanding of the world, develop critical thinking skills, and foster collaboration with civilians. A strong civil-military relationship is essential for a healthy democracy.
Hegseth’s actions suggest a lack of understanding of the value of education and its role in preparing future military leaders. The knowledge and skills gained at universities and war colleges will be crucial for officers as they advance in their careers, far outweighing physical achievements.
