Pathways: A Life of Service – Peter Thompson ’67
Peter Thompson, South Kent Class of 1967, brings a lifetime of leadership, mentorship, and global service to the Hillside. From deployments in U.S. Navy ships and serving in Operation Desert Storm to advising top diplomatic and military leaders as a U.S. Foreign Service Officer, Peter’s journey spans diplomacy, defense, finance, and most recently alumni engagement for SKS. In this episode of Pathways, we explore how his experiences in Paris, Iraq, and beyond have come full circle as he deepens his connection with the South Kent community, continuing a legacy of purpose and service.
At South Kent School, we celebrate the many journeys that begin on the Hillside and continue across the globe. In this edition of Pathways, we’re proud to spotlight Peter Thompson, South Kent Class of 1967, whose remarkable career has spanned the military, diplomatic, financial, and educational sectors—all rooted in a deep commitment to leadership and service.
Since 2023, Mr. Thompson has brought his wealth of experience back to the Hillside, serving as Alumni Engagement Associate. A familiar and respected face among our graduates, Peter has also served as co-Class Agent for the Class of 1967 for nearly four decades, helping to foster connection and camaraderie among his classmates, and across generations of South Kent alumni.
A Global Career in Diplomacy and Defense
Peter’s journey has taken him far from the quiet strength of the Hillside. He served 17 years as a U.S. Foreign Service Officer, retiring in 2014 with the diplomatic rank of First Secretary. His postings in Paris, Ghana, Iraq, and Côte d’Ivoire placed him at the center of global affairs and U.S. foreign policy. His work culminated in leadership roles focused on counterterrorism, civil-military coordination, and interagency integration, where he advised U.S. military commanders and led international negotiations on behalf of the United States.
Before his diplomatic service, Peter dedicated 28 years to the U.S. Navy, rising to the rank of Commander (O-5). As a Surface Warfare Officer, he served in multiple ships and deployed around the world, including during Operation Desert Storm. He also earned qualification as a Master Wargame Controller and Combatant Craft Officer-in-Charge, distinguishing himself as both a strategist and a leader under pressure.
A Mind for Strategy and Stewardship
Between his naval and diplomatic careers, Peter applied his leadership skills to the financial world. From 1985 to 1992, he worked as a Financial Advisor, managing more than $25 million in assets for private clients. This chapter added a new dimension to his already diverse career, one marked by a consistent focus on planning, responsibility, and service to others.
Peter holds a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Pennsylvania and an Executive Master’s in Leadership from Georgetown University, academic foundations that helped shape his thoughtful approach to leadership across disciplines.
A Return to South Kent
Now, as he supports South Kent’s alumni community, Peter reflects the very best of what it means to be a Cardinal. Whether on the bridge of a ship, serving in a U.S. embassy overseas, or reconnecting alumni across decades, his life demonstrates that leadership and service never go out of style.
Peter and his wife, Lisa, split their time between northern Virginia and Maryland’s Eastern Shore, where they are active in dog rescue and enjoy time with their three beloved dogs—Sammy, Poppy, and Bertie.
We are honored to welcome Peter Thompson back to South Kent in a role that allows him to connect, mentor, and inspire—just as he has done throughout a truly extraordinary career.