The Institute for Public Leadership at UMD School of Public Policy has named Lieutenant General Douglas A. “D.A.” Sims II, USA (Ret.) as a distinguished public service fellow, bringing one of the nation’s most senior military leaders into the School’s community of scholars and practitioners.
For Sims, the fellowship follows a distinguished Army career that placed him at the center of U.S. military decision-making during a period defined by sustained global conflict. He retired last year as director of the Joint Staff, one of the military’s most senior operational roles, where he helped coordinate planning across the armed forces and advise national leadership on security strategy.
Sims graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and served more than 30 years as an infantry officer and commander. Over the course of his career, he led soldiers at every level of the Army, including command of the 1st Infantry Division, with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.
His appointment represents a significant addition to the School’s engagement with experienced public leaders whose work has shaped national policy and security strategy. Through his affiliation with IPL, Sims will share insights from decades of military leadership with students and contribute to conversations with faculty on the practice of public leadership.
“LTG(R) Sims brings a remarkable combination of operational experience and strategic judgement at the highest levels of military service,” said Dean Gustavo Flores-Macías. “His expertise will enrich our community and provide an important source of inspiration for our students as they prepare for careers in public service and leadership.”
IPL Director John Ronquillo said the appointment marks a significant milestone for the Institute as it continues building a community of accomplished practitioners dedicated to strengthening public leadership.
As a distinguished public service fellow, Sims will contribute to research and public discussions related to foreign policy, international security, civil-military relations and intergovernmental collaboration. He will mentor students, participate in seminars and public events and contribute to leadership training initiatives supported by the Institute.
