Former Valley Center Student Appointed Navy Chief of Staff

William Mahan, a 45-year-old Valley Center native, takes on top Pentagon role.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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William Mahan, who grew up and attended elementary school in Valley Center, California, has been appointed as the new Chief of Staff to the Secretary of the Navy. Mahan, 45, commenced his new position on February 9, 2026, after a distinguished military career that included serving on nuclear submarines and in the Navy Reserves.

Why it matters

Mahan's appointment to this high-ranking Pentagon position highlights the success that can come from growing up in a small town like Valley Center. The story showcases how the community's support and opportunities helped shape Mahan into an exceptional student, leader, and public servant.

The details

After graduating from Torrey Pines High School in 1999, Mahan attended the U.S. Naval Academy and later obtained an MBA from Johns Hopkins University and a law degree from Antonin Scalia Law School. He served on active duty for 4 years aboard a nuclear submarine and as an Admiral's Aide before joining the Navy Reserves for 20 years, retiring as a Lieutenant Commander.

  • Mahan commenced his new position as Navy Chief of Staff on February 9, 2026.
  • Mahan graduated from Torrey Pines High School in 1999.

The players

William Mahan

A 45-year-old native of Valley Center, California who has been appointed as the new Chief of Staff to the Secretary of the Navy.

Kevin Mahan

William Mahan's father, who was a longtime attorney and active member of the Valley Center community in the 1980s and 1990s.

Cheryl Jensen

A retired Valley Center teacher and lifelong family friend of William Mahan.

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What they’re saying

“Willam is a first- class example of an academically gifted young man, who flourished as he educationally prepared himself for the opportunities that would present themselves throughout his life.”

— Cheryl Jensen, Retired Valley Center teacher (The Roadrunner)

“During his years attending Valley Center Elementary School, he showed himself to be an exceptional student, a born leader, excellent athlete, and responsible citizen.”

— Cheryl Jensen, Retired Valley Center teacher (The Roadrunner)

What’s next

Mahan is expected to help 'resurrect the battleship' to the Navy fleet, fully modernizing this vital naval asset for modern warfare.

The takeaway

Mahan's rise to the top ranks of the Navy demonstrates how the support and opportunities provided by a small-town community like Valley Center can help shape exceptional leaders and public servants. His story is an inspiration for the next generation of Valley Center students.