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The dean of Syracuse University’s Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs was one of several members of the Pentagon Defense Business Board who were fired Friday, according to Politico.

The board, established in 2002, is made up of those who “possess a proven track record of sound judgment and business acumen” in leading large organizations or academic experience, according to the board’s website. Dean David Van Slyke was appointed to the board in May, according to an SU News Release.

Van Slyke and the other members of the board received an email from a White House official indicating their termination, Politico reported. The board’s chair and vice chair were also among the members who were fired. Several loyal supporters of President Donald Trump will replace the board members, Politico reported.

It is unclear how many board members were fired. The terminations come less than a month after Trump fired Defense Secretary Mark Esper.

Members of the board typically serve between one and four years and are appointed by the secretary of defense or deputy secretary.

 

Published on December 4, 2020 at 3:55 pm

Contact Mira: mlberenb@syr.edu