Law dept. to get new permanent professor Published March 23, 2015 By Ray Bowden U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- A Class of '96 Air Force Academy graduate was confirmed by the Senate to become the law department's next permanent professor. Lt. Col. Linell Letendre is scheduled to arrive here in July to lead the Academy's Law Department and teach law for commanders, a senior-level course that prepares cadets to consider legal issues surrounding issues of command. "Lt. Col. Letendre's selection for permanent professor indicates the trust placed in her by those who lead our nation," said Brig. Gen. Andrew Armacost, the Academy's dean of the faculty. "Her impeccable record of service and dedication to education will strengthen the Academy and nation as we strive to develop leaders of character." Letendre earned a bachelor's degree in astronautical engineering from the Academy and earned a juris doctorate from the University of Washington in 2001. During her time as a cadet, she participated in the soaring program, the mock trial team and honed her instructor abilities, she said. "My family and I are ecstatic to be coming home to the Academy," she said. "What an amazing opportunity to inspire the future leaders of our Air Force to think critically, engage in ethical decision making and communicate candidly," she said. "I'm also excited to lead an amazing group of legal professionals in the Law Department dedicated not only to the teaching profession but to service to the Academy and the pursuit of scholastic advancements to our Air Force." Letendre is currently assigned as the staff judge advocate for the 375th Air Mobility Wing at Scott Air Force Base, Ill. The dean of faculty nominates educators for the position of permanent professor. Pending the approval of the Academy superintendent, nominations must then be approved by the chief of staff of the Air Force and receive Senate confirmation.