A faculty member at UW-Stevens Point who is also a captain in the U.S. Army Reserve earned one of the highest honors in the military during a ceremony at the Pentagon on Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023. Sean Jordan, an assistant professor of management in the Sentry School of Business and Economics, was recognized with the 2022 MacArthur Leadership Award for both his management and achievements in resettling 2,833 refugees from Afghanistan through Fort McCoy, Wis.
The MacArthur Award is given annually to 27 company-grade officers of all three Army components who represent the ideals for which Gen. MacArthur stood: duty, honor, country. Jordan embodies MacArthur’s leadership principles as he serves as Company Commander of a Multi-Role Bridge Company in the Army Reserve.
Jordan credits his team, his mentors and leadership for this accomplishment. “No accomplishment is ever achieved single-handedly,” said Jordan. “I am absolutely blessed to be surrounded with an amazing support group ranging from my students and colleagues to my leadership team.” He aspires to pay it forward and continue building the next generation of leaders.
Over the past 36 years, the General Douglas MacArthur Award recognizes company-grade officers demonstrating the ideals for which General MacArthur stood – duty, honor and country. The award promotes and sustains effective junior officer leadership in the Army. This year, 13 active duty, seven Army National Guard, and seven Army Reserve officers selected through a board process for this honor. Awardees are presented with a 15-pound bronze bust of General Douglas MacArthur.
The award’s namesake, General MacArthur, led the United Nations forces during the Korean War after commanding troops in the Southwest Pacific during World War II. For his actions in combat, the five-star general received two Purple Hearts, seven Silver Stars, five Army Distinguished Service Medals, three Distinguished Service Crosses, and the Medal of Honor.
Related:
- Ceremony video (Sean Jordan announced at 24:50 mark)