Last week, the Department of Chemistry and Life Science held a Change of Command ceremony to mark the transition of leadership from COL F. John Burpo ’92 to COL Corey James ’99.
COL Burpo’s distinguished service to the Department spans more than two decades. He first served on the faculty from 2002 to 2004, returning in 2012 as an Academy Professor. In 2014, he was selected as a Professor USMA and Deputy Head, served as Acting Head in 2016, and officially assumed duties as Head of the Department in 2017.
During his tenure, COL Burpo championed the development of a “teaching through research” model, significantly expanding the Department’s research enterprise and strengthening partnerships with strategic Army and Department of Defense research institutions. His efforts have contributed to innovative solutions that enhance Soldier lethality and support for wounded warriors. The Department and the Academy are grateful for his leadership, mentorship, and enduring impact on cadet education and military science.
Following his retirement from military service this December, COL Burpo will continue his commitment to academic leadership as the next Dean of the Donald P. Shiley School of Engineering at the University of Portland.

COL Corey James, ’99, who first served in the Department from 2009 to 2012 and returned in 2017 as an Academy Professor, was appointed Professor USMA and Deputy Head in 2020. As he now assumes the role of Department Head, we look forward to his continued leadership and the advancement of excellence in teaching, research, and service within the department.
Photos: – COL Corey James ’99 & COL F. John Burpo ’92.
An excerpt and images were taken from https://www.facebook.com/chem.lifescience