Wednesday, May 13, the College of William and Mary announced the launch of the Robert M. Gates Initiative in American Statecraft, named for College Chancellor Robert Gates ’65 L.H.D. ’98.
The program, created in collaboration between the Gates Global Policy Center and the College’s Global Research Institute, aims to support the development of foreign policy-related research and teaching at the College. The Gates Initiative will equip members of the community to tackle the modern geopolitical landscape through practical experience and teachings in diplomacy and technology.
Gates is a former Secretary of Defense and CIA director who has served as Chancellor to the College since 2012. In a statement, he highlighted the importance of establishing the initiative.
“The university has always played a role in shaping our nation’s future,” Gates wrote. “This initiative builds on this tradition and will prepare William & Mary’s next generation of great public servants.”
The Gates Initiative will be directed by Senior Research Scientist Eric Brown and Director of Forums and Research Initiatives Ryan Musto at the GRI. The program will combine work from the Project on International Peace and Security and the Gates Forum, among other programs, to further foreign policy research and connect students with leaders in international statecraft.
