American Military University names new program leader for military outreach

CHARLES TOWN, W.Va., April 4, 2005 — Former chief of the U.S. Air Force voluntary education, dependent schools and veterans benefits programs, Jim Sweizer, has been named the new vice president of federal programs for American Military University. American Military University (AMU) and American Public University (APU) are part of the American Public University System (www.apus.edu), which provides distance learning for more than 12,000 students worldwide.

Sweizer joins the University System April 18. He will be an important voice of the customer, helping guide academic and outreach strategies for students in federal government and uniformed services.

“Jim’s credibility and experience are unmatched. We are fortunate to have his knowledge of military students and education,” says Wally Boston, American Public University System’s chief executive officer and president. “He will help enhance programs for our students in uniform and in government service — and help us build vital relationships.”

“I have always been impressed with the caliber of the curriculum, the faculty and the leadership team at the American Military University,” says Sweizer. “They have unique insight into what tomorrow’s leaders need. I look forward to helping increase awareness and growth of their programs.”

Sweizer has more than 20 years in adult education programs. He was named chief of the Air Force program in 1999. He administered a budget of $200 million; oversaw college programs at bases; interfaced with the government on tuition assistance and other issues; and headed training for more than 700 civil service employees. He was an education services officer at Barksdale and Carswell Air Force bases and the air base in Soesterberg, Netherlands. He also served the Air Force, in uniform, for more than eight years.

Sweizer holds a master’s degree in education from North Dakota State University. He is a graduate of the Air War College and completed Harvard University’s Management of Lifelong Education seminar.

American Public University System delivers more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs, providing relevant and affordable distance learning — taught by professors experienced in the real-world subjects they teach. AMU and APU prepare students for careers in homeland security, intelligence, criminal justice, emergency management, sports management, and more.