As a former student of technology and public policy, a decorated Vietnam veteran, a Marine Corps officer, and a leader in the banking industry, Marshall Carter was a logical choice for the position of chairman of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).

Carter, who graduated from GW’s Elliott School of International Affairs with a master’s degree in science, technology, and public policy in 1976, was appointed chairman in April of 2005. His vast experience in the banking industry, and his varied degrees in operations research, systems analysis, and public policy prepared him for his current role. As chairman, he is responsible for a number of tasks, including strategic planning for the NYSE and assistance with outside constituencies, such as Congress and the Securities Exchange Commission. Carter’s distinctive understanding of the convergence of politics and technology is a necessary component of the position, and precisely why he was chosen for this position.

Carter, a Marine Corps officer for 14 years who was working at the Pentagon in the 1970’s, attended GW on the GI Bill. He completed two tours in Vietnam, from 1966 - 1967, and from 1970 -1971, and was awarded a Purple Heart, the Navy Cross, and the Bronze Star. His program – science, technology, and public policy – was unique, and GW was one of the only schools in the area to offer night classes at that time. Carter was impressed with the professors, whose combination of book smarts and real-world experience made their lessons invaluable. "Taking the time to attend classes at GW really paid off in my future," Carter says.

Always on the cutting-edge of technology himself, Carter’s has goals for the Exchange that include enhancing electronic trade and offering a broader range of products. "It is a great privilege to chair the board of the world’s leading equities market at a time of historic opportunity," he says.