Leadership selection at the U.S. Naval Academy: an analysis of Brigade Leaders and their fleet success

Abstract

This research analyzes theselectivity and career success of midshipmen leaders from the United States Naval Academy. Those studied are former midshipmen from the classes of 1980 through 1985 who were carefully screened by USNA's leadership selection process to hold significant leadership positions in their final year at the Academy. Using data compiled from several sources, non-linear logistic regression methodology isemployed to determine statistically significant actors for selection andwhether such individuals have a statistical advantage in later promotion as officers. Qualitative data in the form of surveys are used to analyze current midshipmen satisfaction with the selection process and recent midshipmen leaders. Results indicate that these midshipmen leaders were the most promising candidates for admission to the Academy and the most successful midshipmen in all areas of performance, especially academics and military conduct grades. They also are found, as a whole, to have a higher promotion rate at the Commander promotion board. However, analysis of the views of recent midshipmen and midshipmen leaders indicates that other measures, such as peer and subordinate evaluations, may improve the process of identifying the most promising leaders and role models for the Brigade of Midshipmen and the U.S. Navy