Iowa State University sends its graduates all over the world to do many things. Brig. Gen. Patrick J. Doherty is no different and is returning to the university on May 10 as the undergraduate commencement speaker.

Doherty first joined the Air Force through the ROTC at Iowa State, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in aerospace engineering in 1987. He has attended many military trade schools since then.

He earned his Master of Science degree in aerospace management in 1997 from Embry-Riddle University and his Master of Military Art and Science in 2001 from the Command and General Staff College in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. In 2008 he went to the Naval War College and earned his Master of Arts in national security and strategic studies.

Doherty has accomplished many things including 22 military assignments, three joint assignments and receiving multiple awards, decorations and promotions.

Doherty is currently the Director of Air Force Services in Washington, D.C.

According to his United States Air Force biography, the mission of his organization is to “increase combat capability and improve productivity through programs promoting readiness, esprit de corps and quality of life for Airmen and their families.”