President Joe Biden has nominated Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind to become the next superintendent of the Air Force Academy, according to a Monday news release.

If confirmed by the Senate, Bauernfeind will succeed Lt. Gen. Richard Clark, who made history in 2020 when he was named the Academy’s first Black Superintendent.

“I am humbled by the nomination to be the 22nd Superintendent of our Academy,” Bauernfeind in the news release. “The opportunity to develop warfighters, leaders of character and quality, and critical thinkers for our Air Force and Space Force is an honor.”

Clark said Bauernfeind’s experience suggests he is an ideal choice to lead the Academy into the future.

“Leading the Academy has been an amazing experience, and I know that our Academy is in great hands with Lt. Gen. Bauernfeind,” Clark said.

“Lt. Gen. Bauernfeind’s operational experience will be a key factor as the Academy moves forward in the development of leaders of character ready for Great Power Competition.”  

A 1991 Academy graduate, Bauernfeind is a highly decorated pilot with more than 3,500 flight hours in various aircraft. He brings a wealth of leadership experience, having commanded special operations forces at the squadron, group, wing and theater levels, according to his biography.

Pending confirmation by the Senate, Bauernfeind will take the leadership baton from Clark, who is scheduled to retire June 1. In a February interview with The Gazette, Clark reflected on his tenure as superintendent.

“I don’t think any superintendent ever comes out of here and says, ‘OK, I got done everything I wanted to get done, and we’re good,’” Clark said. “I don’t think that’s ever been the case. Every sup has to pick up where the last one left off and keep going. That’s what I did, and that’s what the next superintendent will do as well.”

“I would like people to look at me as the example of a leader that they would want to follow. I hope I hit that mark. I know I didn’t always hit it, but I hope that I hit it most of the time.”

Bauernfeind, who is currently the Commander of Air Force Special Operations Command, said he is ready for the challenge of building future leaders of the Air Force and Space Force.

“I look forward to building on the legacy of Lt. Gen. Clark and all prior Superintendents as we ready our future officers to lead and win in uncertain, complex and contested environments,” he said.

Retiring Air Force Academy superintendent reflects on his military career, the future, and the College Football Playoff