December 17, 2011 - David's Graduation from Old Dominon University

Commencement Speaker - General Stephane Abrial

Gen. Stephane Abrial, French Air Force, assumed duties as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's Supreme Allied Commander Transformation (ACT) in September 2009. As such, he is one of the most senior and influential leaders in NATO, an alliance whose role is to safeguard the freedom and security of its 28 member nations by both political and military means. In addition, NATO works with 22 partner countries in a multilateral forum for dialogue on political and security-related issues.

Abrial is the first European to be appointed permanently as head of a NATO strategic command. He directs a staff of more than 1,200 personnel who develop the conceptual framework for future joint international operations, and who also conduct research, experimentation and technological development in support of future NATO requirements. In addition, Abrial directs several NATO bodies in Europe, including the NATO Undersea Research Center in Italy and the Joint Analysis and Lessons Learned Center in Portugal. He also oversees the programs of various NATO schools or national centers of excellence.

After an exchange program with the U.S. Air Force Academy, Abrial graduated from the French Air Force Academy in 1975. He has extensive experience both as a fighter pilot and operational commander, together with a wide-ranging background in international operations and strategies.

On an operational level, Abrial served with the German Luftwaffe from 1981-84, and with the Greek Air Force in 1988. He took part in the liberation of Kuwait in 1990-91 as commander of the French Air Force's 5th Fighter Wing during Operation Desert Storm. He also was the commander of the French National Air Defense and Air Operations Command. He logged more than 4,200 flying hours and flew 82 combat missions.

A 1992 graduate of the U.S. Air War College and 2000 graduate of the French Institute for Advanced Studies in National Defense, Abrial acquired broad experience in political-military matters, starting with his service from 1996-99 within the NATO International Military Staff in Brussels. In 2002, he became the deputy chief of the personal military staff to the French president, followed by assignment as defense advisor to the French prime minister. He was assigned as chief of staff of the French Air Force, the senior-ranking officer, from 2006-09. He is frequently interviewed by international media on NATO topics and is a widely sought speaker worldwide on international geopolitical issues.

During Abrial's tenure in Norfolk, Old Dominion University and ACT have strengthened their formal relationship, which has included co-hosting academic symposia. The university is considered ACT's primary academic partner. Student exercises led by ACT, which focus on international crisis management, are providing future generations of geopolitical leaders unique educational opportunities. The establishment of a NATO Fusion Center on the ODU campus also provides numerous international studies internship opportunities in real-world operations.

Abrial's decorations and awards include: Grand Officer of the Legion of Honour; Officer of the National Order of Merit; War Cross for overseas operations with star; Aeronautical Services Medal; and Legion of Merit (U.S.), grade of Commander.