From Baylor to the Space Force
For Major General Stephen Purdy Jr. (BSE ’93, MSCS ’95), the phrase “help people and fix things” has guided a lifelong mission—one that began at Baylor University.
Growing up in a military family, Purdy was drawn to Baylor’s blend of faith, purpose, and community. Through the Air Force ROTC program, he discovered not only a path to serve but also a place that helped him grow in leadership, balance, and faith.
Today, Purdy serves as Military Deputy for Space Acquisition and Integration for the U.S. Air and Space Forces, overseeing billions in research and development while shaping the next generation of military leaders. Despite the weight of his responsibilities, he remains grounded in the values Baylor instilled: humility, service, and a focus on people first.
He continues to mentor future officers, including Baylor ROTC cadets, and attributes much of his leadership philosophy to lessons learned on campus. His story exemplifies the Baylor Family: leading with integrity, serving with purpose, and staying rooted in faith no matter how high you soar.
This year, he was named Baylor Alumnus of the Year, an honor recognizing graduates who have achieved distinction through exceptional contributions to international, national, state, or community welfare. Purdy entered the Air Force as a Distinguished Graduate of Baylor’s ROTC in 1993 and has since served with distinction in engineering, acquisition, and policy roles at the Air Force Laboratory, Pentagon, Congress, Space and Missile Systems Center, and Headquarters U.S. Space Force.
As Military Deputy, he oversees research and development programs exceeding $24 billion annually, while shaping strategies for the Department of the Air Force and representing positions to Congress, the White House, and the Secretary of Defense. He also serves as a mentor to future officers, including Baylor ROTC Detachment 810, and as the Space Force University Partnership Program Champion at the University of Texas at Austin.
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