David McCormick
David McCormick, your career is distinguished by an enduring commitment to service and global citizenship—two values that Dickinsonians hold dear.
You were born in Bloomsburg, Pa., attended college at West Point and earned a Ph.D. in international affairs from Princeton University. As a young Army officer in the first Gulf War, you learned what it means to lead in service of a greater cause. After forging an innovative career path as a technology consultant and entrepreneur, you were again called to serve your country—this time, in answer to a call by President George W. Bush.
As part of the Bush administration, you served as the U.S. Treasury’s undersecretary of commerce for industry and security, and as undersecretary for international affairs. You were the nation’s top economic diplomat during the global financial crisis.
You also held senior roles in the Bush administration’s National Security Council and Department of Commerce, overseeing U.S. global security, policymaking, regulatory, and law enforcement responsibilities. As deputy national security advisor for international economic policy, you were the lead negotiator for the Group of Eight industrialized countries.
Now, you are CEO of Bridgewater Associates, one of the world’s largest investment firms. You also serve as trustee for the Hospital for Special Surgery and the Aspen Institute and as chair of Atlantic Council’s International Advisory Board.
Last year, during a livestreamed Dickinson lecture, you shared that you find a profound sense of meaning in your work in both the public and private sectors. For you, leadership is grounded in a deep feeling of responsibility toward those you lead and serve, and in a keen sense of civic duty and global citizenship.
President Ensign, for his thoughtful leadership in government and international business; for his lifelong commitment to national and global citizenship; and for his contributions to international affairs at the highest levels of government, I am proud to present David McCormick as a candidate for an honorary degree in international affairs.
A Message from David McCormick to the Graduates