Events and Announcements

Upcoming Events

Upcoming Events

Masterclass Dates

Spring 2024 Global Literacy Masterclasses are offered virtually from 12:00 - 2:00 p.m. AZ MST at no charge.

Learn more

The Future of Cyber Defense as a Deterrent

The Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab
of Arizona State University
is proud to present

The Future of Cyber Defense as a Deterrent 

An Address by
Lieutenant General (Ret) Robert E. Schmidle, Jr.
Former Deputy Commander of U.S. Cyber Command and current Professor of Practice and University Advisor on Cyber Capabilities and Conflict Studies

Moderated by
Ambassador David J. Scheffer and Lieutenant General (Ret) Benjamin C. Freakley
Arizona State University (Washington, D.C.)

April 1, 2024
Reception: 4:30 - 5:00 pm ET
Program: 5:00 - 6:30 pm ET

Zoom Option Available (2:00 - 3:30 pm AZ MST)

Location:
ASU Barrett & O’Connor Washington Center
8th Floor Event Pavilion
1800 I Street NW 
Washington, DC 20006

Drinks and hors d'oeuvres will be available

Please RSVP.
ID will be required at the door. 

Genocide Awareness Week

April 15 – 18, 2024

Learn more here

Past Events

Past Events

The Art of Peace in Times of Crisis

Join Ambassador Edward O'Donnell on February 9th, at 12:00pm MST and listen to his speech to the Arizona Jewish Historical Society (virtual online).

Register here

Masterclass Dates

Spring 2024 Global Literacy Masterclasses are offered virtually from 12:00 - 2:00 p.m. AZ MST at no charge.

Learn more

International Holocaust Remembrance Day

The memorial ceremony takes place on Friday 26 January 2024 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. EST, in the UN General Assembly Hall, United Nations Headquarters. Survivors of the Holocaust will join speakers who include the United Nations Secretary-General, the President of the seventy-eighth session of the United Nations General Assembly, the Permanent Representative of Israel and the Permanent Representative of the United States to the United Nations. The ceremony will be broadcast live.

To attend in person, register here: https://forms.office.com/e/LDpzWc6WrM?origin=lprLink

Corporate Foreign Policy to Deter National Security Threats

The Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab
of Arizona State University
is proud to present

Corporate Foreign Policy to
Deter National Security Threats

An Address by
Professor Kish Parella
Washington and Lee University School of Law

Introduced by
Ambassador David J. Scheffer
Arizona State University (Washington, D.C.)

November 28, 2023
5:00 pm to 7:30 pm
Please arrive between 4:30 am and 5:00 am

Location:
ASU Barrett & O’Connor Washington Center
8th Floor Event Pavilion
1800 I Street NW 
Washington, DC 20006

Zoom Option Available

Drinks and lunch will be available

Please RSVP here by November 21st, 2023.
ID will be required at the door. 

Global Literacy Masterclass - The U.S. and the World

November 20, 2023 from 12-2 p.m. AZ MST

An examination of the unique U.S. role in the world, how we got here, and where we are likely to go in the future.

Like in all our masterclasses, we strip away the jargon of international politics and speak in clear text about us as a people on an undeniably interconnected globe.

Register Now

Will Putin be Prosecuted for War Crimes?: The Future of Investigations into International Law Violations in Ukraine

David Scheffer, Professor of Practice, FSI, first US Ambassador at large for War Crimes

Register here!

Global Literacy Masterclass - Diplomacy First

November 1, 2023 from 12-2 p.m. AZ MST

A review of the development and execution of U.S. foreign policy from the ground up -- or rather the top down -- including a discussion of the value for U.S. diplomacy as the first and priority tool of America’s international engagement.

Register Now

Ambassador-in-Residence Office Hour

ASU Ambassador in Residence Michael Polt speaks with student

ASU Ambassador-in-Residence Office Hour 

Please join Ambassador Michael C. Polt for monthly office hours to discuss U.S. foreign policy and diplomatic and international affairs careers. 

October 25, 2023 from 11:30am - 12:30pm AZ MST

Zoom: https://asu.zoom.us/j/5923679179?pwd=TUFYUVJuakt4WXRac1V3QUpWa0Nzdz09; Password:1111

Alliance for the Education of Women in Afghanistan: Open House Event

Date: October 24th
Time: 10:30 am - 1:00 pm
Location: Arizona State University, 1800 I St NW, DC 20006, Washington DC
RSVP: Eventbrite link


Introduction to the Alliance:
The American University of Afghanistan, in partnership with Education for Humanity at
Arizona State University, has established an alliance of organizations and groups engaged
in safeguarding and expanding access to quality education for women and girls in
Afghanistan. Alliance members will endeavor to amplify access, quality, and scope of online
and face-to-face educational opportunities for women and girls in a context of severe
restrictions, depletion of resources, and economic hardship. As part of the Alliance for the
Education of Women in Afghanistan, international and national members are creating a
community of practice that will provide measurable changes and time-bound solutions to
women and girls’ access to quality education in Afghanistan. The Alliance envisions a future
where every Afghan woman and girl has the opportunity to access and receive quality
education, empowering them to thrive and contribute to a more equitable and prosperous
society.

Diplomat in Residence Visit

Diplomat in Residence Info Session

Antoinette Hurtado will talk about State Department Careers and student programs for all majors and backgrounds and share her story as a U.S. diplomat. 

Global Literacy Masterclass - International Trade and the American Worker

October 17, 2023 from 12-1:30 p.m. AZ MST

A fact-based discussion of international trade and how it affects American workers. How can international trade create quality jobs for American workers and what are the negative effects?  How can increasing trade and investment outside the United States serve American interests?  What are your concerns about international trade?

Register Now

How the Holocaust Influenced the Modern War Crimes Tribunals

How the Holocaust Influenced the Modern War Crimes Tribunals

Friday, August 25, 2023 - 10:00 am to 12:00 pm (MST)
FREE VIRTUAL SEMINAR

Featured Guest: Former U.S. Ambassador at Large for War Crimes Issues, David J. Scheffer and member of the ASU Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab | Professor of Practice

American Diplomacy Project at the Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations

PCFR Event

American Diplomacy Project at the Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations

On Feb. 22 at 5:30 p.m. AZ, join the Phoenix Committee and Foreign Relations for dinner and a conversation with experienced diplomat Ambassador Marc Grossman as he discusses the "American Diplomacy Project.​" This effort was co-authored by Grossman, in partnership with Harvard University and Arizona State University, to reimagine and revamp the U.S. State Department and Foreign Service for the myriad of unprecedented challenges in the 21st century. Ambassador Barbara Barrett, the 25th Secretary of the Air Force and former U.S. Ambassador to Finland will moderate the discussion.

Register

Learn more about ADP

Policy Design Studio Information Session

PDS Info Session Banner

Policy Design Studio Information Session

Learn about U.S. Diplomacy in Action—Semester-long case study of the U.S. Embassy. Join us Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2023 at 12 p.m. (Arizona time) on Zoom for an info session on POS 494: Policy Design Studio, a Fall 2023 course and internship program.

Students play the roles of U.S. embassy officials dealing with actual events as they happen in a real country under the guidance of former U.S. Ambassadors and LDNS Lab leaders, Ambs. Edward O'Donnell and Roderick Moore. This simulation introduces students to how U.S. foreign policy is developed and how it is executed in the field.

RSVP

Salute to Service Panel Discussion Luncheon with Arizona Military Leaders

Salute to Service_Selects_Image

Salute to Service Panel Luncheon with Arizona Military Leaders

Friday, November 4, 2022

Doors open at 11:30 a.m. AZ

Old Main – Carson Ballroom

400 E. Tyler Mall, Tempe AZ, 85281

Panel Discussion 1:  “How Are Military Services Adapting to New Domains of Warfare, Specifically Cyber and Space?” 12-1 p.m.

Panel Discussion 2:  “The Give and Take of Service" 1:15-2:15 p.m.

RSVP Here

Salute to Service: Why We Serve

Salute to Service Flyer

Salute to Service: Why We Serve

On November 1, Join the ASU Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab for a Salute to Service Webinar. LDNS Lab co-founders Lt. Gen. Benjamin Freakley and Ambassador Michael C. Polt will moderate a discussion on "Why We Serve" with ASU-affiliated leaders who demonstrate strong records of service across multiple fields and sectors. 

Panelists:

Christine Moore: Instructional Designer at EdPlus

Captain Tai Nguyen: Infantry Company Commander, A Company, 1-23 Infantry Battalion, US Army and MA-IAL Student

Kimberly Curry: Community Engagement Coordinator, International Rescue Committee and MA IAL Student.

RSVP

Policy Design Studio Information Session

EOD Visit to Tempe Banner

POS 494: Policy Design Studio Information Session

Monday, Oct. 24th 4 p.m. AZ
L1-84 Lattie F. Coor Hall

Join Ambassador Edward O'Donnell for an informal information session about POS 494: Policy Design Studio, an embassy simulation course. 

RSVP at Ashley.A.Wright@asu.edu by Oct. 20

Learn More About PDS

Film Screening and Conversation - Son of a Sweeper

Join the ASU Leadership, Diplomacy, and National Security Lab and ASU World Innovator Dr. Vimal Kumar, Founder of Movement for Scavenger Community, for a screening and discussion of Son of a Sweeper. 

Dr. Kumar is the son of a sweeper, or “untouchable” in India’s cruel caste system. The film profiles his efforts to provide different options and more hope for other children of sweepers through education. Documentarians follow him around India as he manages his “Movement for Scavenger Community” and observe his challenges... and his success.

ASU LDNS Lab co-founders Lt. Gen. Benjamin Freakley and Ambassador Michael C. Polt will moderate a discussion with Dr. Kumar following the film on democratizing character-driven leadership within oppressed communities. 

Doors open at 5 p.m. Pizza and soda will be provided. This is a hybrid event with the option to attend virtually or in-person at the Barrett & O'Connor Center. Attendees joining virtually will be emailed a Zoom Webinar link prior to the event.

*Note: Registration has now closed. Learn more about Vimal's work in the article below.

Learn More

The American Diplomacy Project II - Presentation of the Blueprints

ASU Washington Diplomatic Roundtable

The American Diplomacy Project II - Presentation of the Blueprints

September 8, 2022 | ASU Barrett & O'Connor Center, Washington, D.C. | 12:30 p.m.

The ASU Washington Diplomatic Roundtable is a quarterly event hosted by the University’s Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab. Following its launch in January this year, this is the second Roundtable dedicated to ASU’s engagement in support of the modernization of U.S. diplomacy. The Phase II project team, in collaboration with the Una Chapman Cox Foundation and ASU, has assembled detailed blueprints for four critical areas of State Department reform. At this event, team leaders will present their work and take audience questions.

This Zoom Webinar is open to the public. Please click the button below for more information and the link to attend.

More Info + Link

American Diplomacy Project - Phase II Midterm Report

May 31, 12:30 p.m.  EST

The ASU Washington Diplomatic Roundtable is a quarterly event hosted by the University’s Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab. Following its launch in January this year, this is the second Roundtable dedicated to ASU’s engagement in support of the modernization of U.S. diplomacy.
The Phase II project team, in collaboration with the Una Chapman Cox Foundation and ASU, is assembling detailed blueprints for four critical areas of Foreign Service reform. At this event at the midpoint of the effort, team leaders will provide a brief progress update and take audience questions. 

Tune in Live

Learn More

Global Literacy Masterclass - Diplomacy First

April 18, 2022 12-2 p.m.

A review of the development and execution of U.S. foreign policy from the ground up -- or rather the top down -- including a discussion of the value for U.S. diplomacy as the first and priority tool of America’s international engagement.

Register Now

Genocide Awareness Week 2022

Not on Our Watch

The 10th Rosenbluth Family Charitable Foundation Genocide Awareness Week, held April 4-9, 2022, is a series of lectures, exhibits and storytelling by distinguished survivors, scholars, politicians, activists, artists, humanitarians and members of law enforcement. This week-long event seeks to address how we, as a global society, confront violent actions and current and ongoing threats of genocide throughout the world, while also looking to the past for guidance and to honor those affected by genocide.

Learn more

Global Literacy Masterclass - International Trade and the American Worker

March 24, 2022, 12-1:30 p.m.

A fact-based discussion of international trade and how it affects American workers. How can international trade create quality jobs for American workers and what are the negative effects?  How can increasing trade and investment outside the United States serve American interests?  What are your concerns about international trade?

Register Now

Diplomats at Work by the American Foreign Service Association

Continuing our celebration of USAID's 60th birthday this month, Diplomats@Work will chat with Nancy Ostrowski about the work of USAID and her life as a USAID Foreign Service Officer. From her work in more traditional USAID programs like Moldova to her evacuation from South Sudan, her experiences provide a good representation of the varied work USAID does around the world. There will be opportunities for Q&A.

Register to attend 

December Virtual Roundtables for Universities from USIP

December 1st, 3 – 4pm ET: State Fragility and Peace in Latin America

In this 1-hour moderated discussion from the U.S. Institute of Peace, attendees will hear from USIP experts about state fragility and peace priorities in northern Central America, Latin America, and the region. The session will explore regional dynamics in the hemisphere, current challenges in places like Haiti and Venezuela, and the ongoing peace process in Colombia, and participants will have the opportunity to join the conversation on U.S. policy priorities.

Register to attend 

November Virtual Roundtables for Universities from USIP

November 9th, 3 – 4pm ET: Countering Violent Extremism

In this 1-hour moderated discussion from the U.S. Institute of Peace, attendees will hear from USIP experts on the priority theme of countering violent extremism (CVE) and on peace and security challenges in Mozambique, and will have the opportunity to participate in a conversation that explores peacebuilding approaches and practical ways forward.

Register to attend  

The Micro to Macro Workshop

Our PDS Alumnus, Michael Garlid, would like to invite you to the Micro to Macro workshop on Friday, November 5th from 17:15 - 18:15 CET. If you would like to participate, please follow the registration directions on our LinkedIn event page here

Virtual Panel Discussion: "Leading with Character in Uncharted Waters"

The ASU Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab and Phoenix Council on Foreign Relations will host four exceptional leaders as they discuss their leadership journey in the U.S. Armed Forces. Tuesday, September 28, 2021  12:00 p.m. MST | 3:00 p.m. EDT 

Register  

Complimentary registration code (not to be shared on social media) is "leadership." 

Zoom Webinar: The Balkans on Tenterhooks

Please join the Harriman Institute for a roundtable discussion on current events in the Balkans. This discussion is situated at a momentous time of political strife that cuts across the Western Balkans region against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our AGL alumni leader, Ljubomir Filipovic, will participate in this discussion. October 12, 2021  12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. EDT

Register 

Global Literacy Masterclasses

The LDNS Lab Masterclass Series, offered through the Lab’s Ambassador-in-Residence, engages the ASU community and ultimately all audiences in partnership with the university, in a broad–ranging conversation about America’s foreign policy and the country’s role in world affairs.

See upcoming classes 

Register for classes 

NEW Master of Arts in International Affairs and Leadership (MA IAL)

MA-IAL

NEW Master of Arts in International Affairs and Leadership (MA IAL), offered by the School of Politics and Global Studies

Priorty deadline for Spring 2022: December 14, 2021 

For more information, please contact Ashley Wright at Ashley.A.Wright@asu.edu 

U.S. Department of State Fall 2021 Student Internship Program

The U.S. Department of State Fall 2021 Student Internship Program will open for application soon for one week only. This is a limited amount of time to apply for these positions; we encourage you to start preparing today. Here are three steps you can take:

1. Learn about the Student Internship Program

2. Create your USAJOBS account, build your resume, and get your transcript 

3. Research the U.S. Department of State’s Bureaus and Offices to find the right internship opportunity for you.   

If you have any questions or would like to search for topics of interest, please visit U.S. Department of State forums or FAQs at careers.state.gov.

Recent Announcements

Recent Announcements

Past Announcements

Past Announcements

Guest speaker discusses intersection of law and business in corporate foreign policy

Guest speaker, Professor of Ethics and Law, Kish Parella, of Washington and Lee University, discusses the intersection of law and business in corporate foreign policy. In her conversation with Ambassador David Scheffer, she shares her thoughts on the Russian invasion of Ukraine and its implications for war.

Click the link to learn more: https://lnkd.in/gcKKsCnJ

Watch the full lecture here: https://lnkd.in/g8vqTWdA

LDNS Lab Newsletter

Thank you for tuning in to our first quarterly newsletter — designed to provide updates on LDNS Lab events, projects, research and opportunities for students and partners. With these newsletters, we aim to showcase more of what we do, and who we are. Whether you're an ASU student or alumni, staff, or community member, we look forward to connecting with you!

Read our Newsletter

Congratulations to our 2023 MA-IAL Graduates!

Congratulations to the 2023 MA-IAL Graduates!

The ASU LDNS Lab team congratulates the following students on graduating from the M.A. International Affairs and Leadership program!

Brandon Axelrod, Muriel Batta, Austin Bennett, Shamiah Bullock, Kimberly Curry, Ismail Dashti, Sean Gallagher, Suzanna Gardner, Jacob Gleason, Emma Hager, Breck Heltzel, Nicolas Khonaysser, Thomas Koch, Logan Montel, Mallory Montour, Emily Muller, Stephen Salter, Tara Toone, Brian Valencia Arvizu, and Quinn Vlacich

We wish these students the best of luck as they continue their leadership journey in the field of international affairs. 

LTG H.R. McMaster Competitive Statecraft Event with the LDNS Lab

Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster discusses competitive statecraft with Amb. Michael Polt at the ASU DC Center

The ASU Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab was honored to host a discussion with Arizona State University Distinguished University Fellow and former National Security Advisor LTG HR McMaster in February 2023. This event, sponsored by the ASU Competitive Statecraft Initiative, served as a precursor to the ASU Forum on Innovating for Competitive Statecraft, which came to Tempe March 29-31, 2023. 

Read More

Watch the Discussion

American Diplomacy Project - Foreign Service Journal

In the March issue of the American Foreign Service Association's Foreign Service Journal, Ambs. Grossman and Ries, co-directors of the ASU Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab-supported American Diplomacy Project, lay out the blueprints for Foreign Service reform proposed in the ADP-II and reinforce the importance of this project as it heads into Phase III: Implementation.
 

Read More

Summer 2023 AWI Study Abroad Application Is Still Open!

Carl Travis AWI Study Abroad

Applications are still open for the 2023 ASU World Innovators Study Abroad Program!

The ASU World Innovators Internship/Study Abroad program allows students to work directly with ASU World Innovators (AWIs) around the world on projects ranging from entrepreneurship in Morocco to refugee support in Jordan to democratization in Georgia. Applications are being reviewed on a rolling basis, with a deadline of March 31. 

There are both virtual (Lesotho) and in-person (Jordan, Morocco, Kyrgyzstan, India, Albania) opportunities available!

Learn More and Apply

ASU student Alyssa Porta selected for State Department internship

Alyssa Porta Headshot

AWI Study Abroad Participant Selected for State Department Internship

ASU political science senior Alyssa Porta was selected for a prestigious paid internship with the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Political-Military Affairs.

Alyssa participated in the Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab's ASU World Innovators study abroad program last summer, during which she supported AWI Vimal Kumar and his work advocating for education access in India. 

Alyssa aims to continue to work in public service as a Foreign Service Officer after graduation, and credits LDNS Lab leader Amb. Polt for preparing her for this opportunity and offering invaluable application advice. Learn more about how you can reach your career goals with help from ASU Ambassador-in-Residence Michael Polt:

ASU Ambassador-in-Residence

Anniversary of ADP-II Launch

American Diplomacy Project Cover

Anniversary of the Launch of ADP-II at Arizona State University | Jan. 31, 2022

One year ago, in partnership with the Una Chapman Cox Foundation, the ASU Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab launched the American Diplomacy Project - Phase II, which endeavored to develop four detailed blueprints to modernize U.S. Diplomacy. Over the following months, the ADP-II team, led in part by LDNS Lab co-founder Ambassador Michael C. Polt, researched and crafted these four blueprints. With the help of ASU Student Research Aides, the final report was presented to foreign policy leaders in September, 2022. 

On this anniversary, ASU looks forward to continually supporting the mission of these blueprints as this project moves into its next phase of advocacy and implementation. 

Take a look back at the project

ASU News Features First Graduating MA-IAL Class

IAL Grad Class
Photo courtesy the School of Politics and Global Studies.

ASU News Features First Graduating MA-IAL Class

“I am incredibly proud of our first graduates,” said Ambassador Roderick Moore, professor of practice at ASU and director of the master’s degree program. “Through their hard work and commitment, they have established a high standard of academic achievement that we hope many future generations of IAL graduates will match. ... We expect to see them in rewarding careers in international affairs in the years ahead.”

Read More

Welcome Back, Sun Devils!

Spring 2023 Policy Design Studio participants stand in front of ASU wood engraving at the ASU Center in Washington, D.C.

Happy start of the Spring 2023 semester, Sun Devils!

This weekend, our in-person School of Politics and Global Studies at Arizona State University Policy Design Studio students arrived in Washington, D.C. to a warm welcome from the ASU Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab team.

These students will be participating in internships across sectors while diving into the world of U.S. Foreign Policy through an Embassy simulation course taught by former U.S. Ambassadors.

Learn more about the program here:

Learn More

Congratulations to our 2022 MA-IAL Graduates!

Congratulations to the 2022 MA-IAL Graduates!

The ASU LDNS Lab team congratulates the following students on being amongst the first cohort of graduates of the M.A. International Affairs and Leadership program!

Megan Amen

James Baker

Tommaso Carli

Joey Joson

Sal Lee

Ben Valdez

We wish these students the best of luck as they continue their leadership journey in the field of international affairs. 

MA-IAL Students Profiled for ASU News

Washington Week Group Photo

Two MA-IAL Students Profiled in ASU News

Kara Moriarty and Thomas Morgan, two students in the LDNS Lab-affiliated M.A. in International Affairs and Leadership Program, were recently profiled by ASU News for their incredible leadership journeys. Learn more about how their participation in Washington Week helped advance their knowledge and networks in international affairs in the articles below:

Kara's Story 

Thomas' Story

Lauren Pukalo ASU News Highlight

Lauren Pukalo, an intern with the ASU Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab-sponsored American Diplomat Podcast was featured in a recent ASU News piece. 

“I honestly cannot speak highly enough of the faculty and the lab,” Pukalo said. 

“I’ve learned so much from the faculty; they truly care about the students and are willing to help by providing opportunities and resources. All in all, the experience has really helped influence my path and future career.” 

Read more about all of the experiences she's taken advantage of through the LDNS Lab:

Read Article

Spring Internship Opportunity with the American Academy of Diplomacy

The American Academy of Diplomacy seeks two individuals interested in American foreign policy and the practice of diplomacy, as well as in the inner workings of a nonprofit organization, for their Spring 2023 internship program. The candidates must be able to commit to the entire spring term (20-40 hours/week, virtual or in-person). Applicants who cannot do so will not be considered. Applications are due November 20, 2022.

More Info

American Diplomacy Project - ASU News

American Diplomacy Project Cover
Graphic Courtesy of Bailey Vidler of ASU Graphic Design

The American Diplomacy Project - Phase II Report, supported by the Una Chapman Cox Foundation and the ASU Leadership, Diplomacy, and National Security Lab, was presented on Sept. 8, 2022 at the ASU Center in Washington, D.C. Learn more about the project via this ASU News article.

Read More from ASU News

American Diplomat Podcast - ASU Intern

AmDip Podcast Intern - Lauren Pukalo Banner Image

Congratulations to ASU Senior Political Science student Lauren Pukalo for being selected as a Diplomacy Podcast Intern with the American Diplomat Podcast, a show that features former and current diplomats' takes on current world affairs. The ASU Leadership, Diplomacy, and National Security Lab, a sponsor of AmDip, is excited to expand our collaboration and engage ASU students!

 Learn more 

AWI Ljubo Filipovic on Montenegro's No-Confidence Vote

ASU World Innovator Ljubo Filipovic, a political analyst from Montenegro, was recently interviewed concerning the recent no-confidence vote that occurred in his country, leading to another fall of its government. Learn more about the Montenegrin political environment and how church-state relations influenced this recent vote in the clip below.

Watch Here

ASU a Top School for Foreign Service Officers

Arizona State University is a top producer of Foreign Service Officers, according to data from the State Department. 

Visit the ASU Ambassador-in-Residence page to explore opportunities in international affairs and diplomacy from ASU Ambassador-in-Residence Michael Polt.

ASU Ambassador-in-Residence

Foreign Policy Magazine

Foreign Policy Magazine Logo

ASU students, staff, and faculty can access online international affairs content from Foreign Policy Magazine via ASU Libraries.

To access, click the link below, then select "Foreign Policy" under "Available Online"

Happy reading!

Read Here

ASU-Kachin Letter Exchange

This Spring, ASU World Innovator Zaw and ASU LDNS Lab team member Ashley teamed up to connect ASU, Mount Vernon High School, and Kachin students from the Alen Bum School for Internally Displaced Persons through a letter exchange.

Through this project, American students learned about the Kachin conflict in Myanmar, which is largely underreported. ASU students wrote letters of encouragement to 75 Kachin students, fostering mutual understanding, awareness, and support. 

Congratulations to Zaw and Ashley for such an impactful and inspiring project!

ASU News: American Diplomacy Project - Phase II

"Earlier this year, Arizona State University’s Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab convened ambassadors and foreign service experts to discuss actionable steps that can be taken to revive, reform and reimagine the U.S. Foreign Service for the 21st century in an online open discussion, 'The American Diplomacy Project – Phase II.' The discussion was organized as part of the Inaugural ASU Washington Diplomatic Roundtable, a quarterly event connecting ASU with the Washington foreign affairs community."

ASU News reports on the LDNS-led American Diplomacy Project - Phase II

Read Here

LDNS Lab Undergraduate Fellows Program Application

The LDNS Lab is currently seeking two highly motivated undergraduate students to participate in its innovative Undergraduate Research Fellows Program for the Fall 2022 semester. Students accepted into the program will work directly with faculty mentors on current research projects involving leadership, diplomacy and national security and will qualify for a $2,500 scholarship.

Requirements:
• Preference for first-generation college students
• Cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher. 
• All ASU undergraduate majors/years are eligible
• Time Commitment: 5-7 hours/week
• Location: Virtual, weekly Zoom meetings

Deadline: July 15

More Information + Application Form:

There Never Was a Threat from the West, Mr. Putin

"But what can we learn from this new reality? How do we build a more resilient future? And what should we have done differently in the heady days of the end of the Cold War to fend off the resurgence and ascendancy of autocrats abroad and here at home?

Leadership, Diplomacy, and National Security Lab Co-Founder and ASU Ambassador-in-Residence Michael C. Polt shares his views on how the West can build a more resilient future, one that fends off the resurgence and ascendancy of autocrats, in this piece from the George W. Bush Institute.

Read here

Australian-American Leadership Dialogue (AALD) Internship

AALD-Logo

The Australian-American Leadership Dialogue is hosting the 30th Anniversary Australian American Leadership Dialogue (AALD) July 12-14, 2022, in Washington, DC. The Leadership Dialogue is requesting interns to support the administrative matters of the event. The interns would enjoy the broad scope in the program and the high-level bilateral engagement of delegates and dialogue.

Note: All interns must be in the D.C. area and available to attend all of the AALD forum events between July 11 - 14. Interns must be current ASU/LDNS Lab students or alumni. 

Deadline Extended: Friday, June 17 by 11:59 p.m.

Learn More + Apply

Congratulations to LDNS Team Member Nikki Hinshaw

Congratulations to LDNS Lab Team Member Nikki Hinshaw on her recent graduation from The George Washington University! She earned a Master's in Global Communication with concentrations in international education and public diplomacy. We're excited to have her transition into a full-time role with our team next week. 

Read more

Spring 2024 Internship Opportunity with the American Academy of Diplomacy

The American Academy of Diplomacy seeks an individual interested in American foreign policy and the practice of diplomacy, as well as in the inner workings of a nonprofit, non-partisan organization. A student or a recent graduate with continuing education goals and interest in the Department of State and the Foreign Service will find this internship particularly rewarding, as they will be able to interact with our esteemed members, learn about the Foreign Service, and gain insights into the workings of how foreign policy is carried out. Because the Academy is small, the internships offer students a unique opportunity to become a core part of the organization’s team. As an integral part of the Program, the intern will attend meetings and events with some of the most distinguished retired American ambassadors. The Intern will be involved in: managing all the Academy’s social media accounts, event and meeting planning and implementation, communicating with Academy members and distributing their published articles, updating content for the Academy website, managing contact lists, supporting the professional staff, and creating their own project. The Program and Finance Assistant will provide detailed guidance and constructive critique to maximize the learning experience. The intern will devote 15 to 30 hours a week depending on their availability. The candidate must be able to commit to the entire Spring term. Applicants who cannot do so will not be considered. Applications are due November 19, 2023 at 11:59pm.

Gen. H.R. McMaster Veterans Honor Stole Ceremony Keynote

H.R. McMaster gives the keynote address during Arizona State University's Veterans Honor Stole Ceremony for the spring 2022 semester, held May 7 in Tempe.
Photo by Deanna Dent/ASU

On May 7, Arizona State University and ASU Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab Distinguished Fellow Gen. H.R. McMaster served as the keynote speaker for the Veterans Honor Stole Ceremony.

He recognized the value of an education at ASU "to develop further the knowledge, the skills, the abilities that will permit you to go on and make even greater contributions to our nation and all of humanity.”

Congratulations to all of the ASU Spring 2022 graduates, especially our LDNS Lab students and fellows!

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CIEE Bridge Builders Award

Congratulations to Arizona State University for being selected as a CIEE Council on International Educational Exchange Bridge Builder Award winner!

This honor recognizes institutions that have strengthened the field of international education and exchange and have contributed to building mutual understanding across cultures.

The ASU Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab is honored to play a part in ASU's efforts in global education.

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Roskind Great Hall Dedication

The Leadership, Diplomacy, and National Security Lab offers its congratulations to Herb and Laura Roskind following the dedication of Roskind Great Hall on ASU's Tempe Campus this past week. Their generous donations and engagement with the University have positively impacted countless students and departments, including the LDNS Lab.

Learn more about the Roskind's and their incredible work below:

ASU News Article

Meet the Roskind's

Great Hall Dedication

American Diplomat Podcast - Countering Genocide

The Leadership, Diplomacy, and National Security Lab is a proud sponsor of the American Diplomat Podcast. LDNS Lab co-founder and former Ambassador to Holocaust Issues Edward O'Donnell is featured on the recent episode, "Countering Genocide." 

About the episode: "War crimes and genocide, from the Holocaust of World War II to Ukraine today, and many other places on earth. Moved by his experience of the civil rights movement as a youth in the South, Ed O'Donnell devoted his life to preventing the emergence of genocides worldwide and bringing justice in their aftermath."

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American Diplomat Podcast - Ukraine: The Will to Fight

The Leadership, Diplomacy, and National Security Lab is a proud sponsor of the American Diplomat Podcast. LDNS Lab co-founder Lt. General Benjamin Freakley is featured on the recent episode, "Ukraine: The Will to Fight."

About the episode: "No one guessed Ukraine could succeed in combatting Putin. How has the country done it? What has Putin got wrong? General Ben Freakley is back with insights on the will to fight, military strategy, and values-based leadership."

Listen here

Foreign Service Journal - April Edition

American Foreign Service Association Logo

The April Edition of the Foreign Service Journal is out now!

The Foreign Service Journal covers foreign affairs from an insider’s perspective, providing thought-provoking articles on international issues, the practice of diplomacy and the U.S. Foreign Service. Including the AFSA News section, The Journal is published monthly (January-February and July-August issues combined) by the American Foreign Service Association.

Check out the article on "Core Precepts," which covers traits important for those aspiring to work in the Foreign Service, like diversity, substantive knowledge, leadership, communication skills, and more.

Read the Journal

U.S. Diplomacy: Preventing Genocide

As a part of Genocide Awareness Week at Arizona State University, ASU Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab co-founder and former Ambassador to Holocaust Issues Edward O'Donnell discussed the role of the U.S. government in preventing and responding to atrocities.

Watch the Presentation

Ambassador O'Donnell served on and moderated several additional panels throughout Genocide Awareness Week. For the full playlist of presentations from #GAW22, visit this link:

All Recordings

Spring Global Literacy Masterclasses

Global Literacy Masterclasses are back for the Spring!

The Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab (LDNS Lab) Masterclass Series, offered through the Lab’s Ambassador-in-Residence, engages the ASU community and ultimately all audiences in partnership with the university, in a broad–ranging conversation about America’s foreign policy and the country’s role in world affairs. Spring course offerings include:

International Trade and the American Worker | March 24 12-1:30 p.m.

The U.S. and the World | April 12, 2022 12-2 p.m.

Diplomacy First | April 18, 2022 12-2 p.m.

Register for Classes
 

What the Passing of Queen Elizabeth Means for Global Diplomacy - Robert Lavender

Robert Lavender Headshot

 

Robert Lavender, Fall 2022 ASU Leadership, Diplomacy, and National Security Lab Fellow, recently published an article about the passing of Queen Elizabeth II and its impact on global diplomacy.

Read his article here:

The Summer of the Cockroaches

Pardis Mahdavi relays her experience of the Iranian sexual revolution and similar movements in the Middle East, including Afghanistan. Why was the summer of the cockroaches her favorite? There weren't enough cockroaches for everybody! And this is to say nothing of the orgies. Listen and find out what all of this could possibly mean.

Listen to the Podcast 

Internship Opportunities with DOD

The Office of the Secretary of Defense/Washington Headquarters Services (OSD/WHS) offers volunteer opportunities to students enrolled in an accredited high school, trade school, college and/or university. These opportunities allow students to explore career options in their field of study and develop personal and professional skills. Volunteer students are exposed to the work environment while learning about the Department of Defense missions and responsibilities. 

For more information 

Analysis of the Foreign Malign Influence in Montenegro

Analysis of the Foreign Malign Influence in Montenegro 2019-2021 by Ljubomir Filipovic 

For many years now, the Republic of Montenegro has been facing numerous threats of a hybrid nature that are aggressively attacking its national and state-building identity. The level and intensity of malicious activities has changed over the years, from assassination attempts to inciting (and violent) protests in the streets to influence the election process. 

Read the Analysis 

LDNS Lab Fellow Devin Parker Highlighted by ASU News

Headshot of Devin Parker

Our Spring '23 ASU Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab Fellow and M.A. Int'l Affairs and Leadership student, Devin Parker, was recently highlighted in a news profile by the School of Politics and Global Studies at Arizona State University!

In addition to her work on Genocide Awareness Week with LDNS Lab co-founder Amb. O'Donnell as a Lab Fellow, Devin has also participated in Washington Week and the Diplomacy Lab course as an ASU Online M.A. International Affairs and Leadership student. Read more about Devin's incredible leadership within our Lab in the article below:

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Webinar: How the Holocaust Influenced the Modern War Crimes Tribunals

Event hosted by Arizona Jewish Historical Society


Featured Guest: Former U.S. Ambassador at Large for War Crimes Issues, David J. Scheffer

Former U.S. Ambassador at Large for War Crimes Issues, David J. Scheffer is the Professor of Practice in the Leadership, Diplomacy and National Security Lab & is a Senior Fellow of the Council of Foreign Relations (Washington Office). From 2006 through 2020 Professor Scheffer was the Mayer Brown/Robert A. Helman Professor of Law at Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law & Director Emeritus of the Center for International Human Rights. Professor Scheffer was the first US Ambassador at Large for War Crimes Issues (1997-2001) and led the US delegation to the U.N. talks establishing the International Criminal Court. Further, he negotiated the creation of five war crimes tribunals and chaired the Atrocities Prevention Inter-Agency Working Group (1998-2001). He served on the Deputies Committee of the National Security Council and as Senior Adviser and Counsel to Dr. Madeleine Albright, the U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations, from 1993-1996. His latest publications include, “All the Missing Souls: A Personal History of the War Crimes Tribunals,” and “The Sit Room: In the Theater of War and Peace.”

Watch the Discussion