Mackenzie Corcoran ’21

As the only woman to graduate not only from the Army’s rigorous Ranger School, but also from the intensive Sapper School and Jungle Warfare School, Capt. Mackenzie Corcoran is redefining what is possible. She also continues a William & Mary tradition of shaping leaders who define military history. That legacy includes figures such as Gen. George Washington, W&M’s 14th chancellor, Robert Gates ’65, L.H.D. ’98, the only secretary of defense to serve under presidents from both major political parties; and hundreds of other alumni who have served or currently serve.

Although her grandfather and father both became Army colonels, Mackenzie did not initially plan on a military career. Still, her mother thought that she was tailor-made for the Army life and encouraged her to join. As a four-year ROTC cadet and senior captain of the Ranger Challenge team at William & Mary, Mackenzie honed the skills and determination that propelled her as she commissioned into the Army and achieved the trifecta of graduating from the Ranger, Sapper and Jungle Warfare schools. She went on to serve as a battalion engineer in the 75th Ranger Regiment, the Army’s premier large-scale Special Operations Force, and then continued her leadership training in the 22-week Maneuver Captain’s Career Course at Fort Benning.

Established in 1950, Ranger School is the Army’s premier leadership school. Ranger candidates must meet rigorous standards, including completing a 12-mile march with a 47-pound pack, navigating a mile-long obstacle course over hilly terrain, and rappelling down a 200-foot rock face at night. Those like Mackenzie who graduate receive the coveted Ranger Tab to wear on the left shoulder of their military uniform. It’s a sign that courage, resilience and skills learned at William & Mary can conquer the toughest challenges. 

Learn more about Mackenzie

• Read the W&M Alumni Magazine online exclusive Tabbed and Tenacious.