--- title: "James Patterson Speaker Series: Admiral William H. McRaven (Ret.)" url: "/academics/honors/james-patterson-honors-program/speaker-series/2025-26/admiral-william-h-mcraven" type: page date: 2026-04-23 updated: 2026-04-23 --- # James Patterson Speaker Series: Admiral William H. McRaven (Ret.) James Patterson Honors Program # Admiral William H. McRaven (Ret.) The James Patterson Speaker Series at Manhattan University is proud to welcome Admiral William H. McRaven on Monday, April 20, 2026. A retired four-star admiral and bestselling author, McRaven is widely recognized for his leadership in special operations and his reflections on service, character, and the American spirit. The Speaker Series is a flagship component of the [James Patterson Honors Program (JPHP)](/node/2194/) at Manhattan University. Image ![Image of Admiral William H. McRaven](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-04/admiral-mcraven768.jpg?h=e7864eb6&itok=1iqhV1QP) **Monday, April 20, 2026** **7:00 p.m. | Kelly Commons, Room 5B** The **James Patterson Speakers Series** at Manhattan University is proud to welcome Admiral William H. McRaven on **Monday, April 20, 2026**. A retired four-star admiral and bestselling author, McRaven is widely recognized for his leadership in special operations and his reflections on service, character, and the American spirit. Admiral William H. McRaven is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of *Make Your Bed* and *The Wisdom of the Bullfrog* and the New York Times bestsellers *Sea Stories: My Life in Special Operations* and *The Hero Code: Lessons Learned from Lives Well Lived*. In his thirty-seven years as a Navy SEAL, he commanded at every level. As a Four-Star Admiral, his final assignment was as Commander of all U.S. Special Operations Forces. After retiring from the Navy, he served as the Chancellor of the University of Texas System from 2015 to 2018. He now lives in Austin, Texas with his wife, Georgeann. A **complimentary copy of his book**, *Duty, Honor, Country & Life: A Tribute to the American Spirit*, will be provided. This event is part of the James Patterson Speaker Series, a cornerstone of the [James Patterson Honors Program](/academics/honors-program/index.php). Free and open to the public, registration is required. Contact Us ## Questions on the James Patterson Honors Program? Dr. Michele Saracino Executive Director (718) 862-7412 Eliza Newman Assistant Director (718) 862-7176