The MacArthur Society’s guest speaker for May, Cal Benedict, USMA ’71, talked about funding projects he has pursued over the last few years, including support for the new American Foundations Minor at West Point as a counter to the DEI/CRT view of our history, and an endowment project for the Lieber Institute for Law and Land Warfare at West Point, which is a complement to the work of the Combating Terrorism Center at West Point and other Centers related to support of our Armed Forces in the currently evolving environment of operational engagement.

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AI Summary

West Point Constitutional Initiatives Funding
Calvert “Cal” Benedict discussed his efforts to counter CRT and DEI initiatives at West Point by promoting constitutional values and American history. He explored options including campus monuments and separating constitutional law into a distinct course, eventually connecting with professors Rob McDonald and Hugh Liebert who founded the American Foundations minor program. Cal learned that funding an additional instructor for the program would require $250,000, while endowing a guest professorship for the advanced constitutional law elective would need $750,000. While initially considering using leftover reunion funds of about $1 million for these initiatives, the class ultimately decided to use the money for a million-dollar plaque in the dean’s conference room instead.

Class Fundraising Strategy Planning
Cal discussed a two-phased fundraising approach for their class, which successfully raised $240,000 in Phase 1 to cover requirements for American foundations and the law department. In Phase 2, they are now aiming to raise $1.5 million to endow a distinguished scholar position at the Lieber Institute for Law and Land Warfare, with retired Brigadier General Pat Finnegan as the proposed namesake. Cal reported that they have secured over $800,000 in cash commitments so far, with plans to align the fundraising efforts with their 60th class reunion in 2031.

Lieber Institute Support Commitment
Cal discussed his 4-year commitment to supporting the Lieber Institute at West Point through fundraising efforts, including initiatives for military operations, workshops, and various endowment programs totaling several million dollars. He expressed his motivation to support positive aspects at West Point while addressing concerns about certain developments there. When asked about constitutional law teaching approaches, Cal indicated that Colonel Williams appears to have a conservative perspective but maintains a balanced approach in teaching, though he did not provide specific details about the curriculum or pedagogy.

West Point Centers Discussion
Cal discussed the dual impact of the centers at West Point, explaining how they enhance instruction for cadets and support alumni through career development. He confirmed that the American Foundation’s minor and Lieber Institute are formally recognized and supported by the West Point AOG. When asked about the inclusion of American creed material in the minor, Cal explained that it covers the Founding Fathers’ writings and includes trips to historical sites, focusing on pre-revolutionary and constitutional periods. Cal also shared his perspective on key American principles, emphasizing the importance of individual equality, opportunity, and a Christian ethic in the nation’s founding.

Academic Minors at West Point
Cal discussed the impact of academic minors at West Point, noting that while participation in minors like the American Foundation’s minor is limited due to academic workload, they provide valuable opportunities for cadets. He highlighted the maturity and character of students in the American Foundation’s minor and mentioned how guest speakers can reach a broader audience, citing an example of a “professor of happiness” from Harvard who spoke to 500 cadets.