Retired Maj. Gen. Jeannie M. Leavitt, the U.S. Air Force’s first female fighter pilot and a 1990 graduate of The University of Texas at Austin, has been selected to deliver the keynote address at UT’s 141st Spring Commencement on May 11. The commencement ceremony, set to take place at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, is expected to draw over 50,000 attendees.
"Maj. Gen. Leavitt broke much more than the sound barrier when she first took to the skies as a fighter pilot," said President Jay Hartzell. "She set an example of great persistence in pursuing her dreams, resilience in the face of disappointment, and being prepared for unforeseen opportunities." Hartzell noted the parallel between Leavitt's journey and the experiences of the graduating class of 2024, who navigated challenges during the pandemic.
"These graduates showed incredible grit as they persevered through the pandemic," said Leavitt. "With courage, compassion, and commitment, the Longhorn class of 2024 will change the world."
Leavitt's career includes being the first female pilot to graduate from Weapons School in 1998, a feat that earned her accolades such as the Distinguished Service Medal and the Bronze Star. After 31 years of service, which included combat flying in Iraq and Afghanistan, Leavitt retired from the Air Force in 2023 and now resides in New Braunfels with her family.
Known for her contributions to the portrayal of female fighter pilots in media, Leavitt collaborated with Marvel Studios for the movie "Captain Marvel." "I think that a lot of the tenacity and the spunk and the attitude of 'Captain Marvel' really was based off of Gen. Leavitt," said Retired Lt. Col. Caroline Jensen.
Retired Lt. Gen. Steve Kwast also commended Leavitt's leadership qualities. "One of her great hallmarks is how she made any team she was a part of better," said Kwast.