The Robert M. Gates Initiative in American Statecraft

“William & Mary is the natural home for such an important initiative. The university has always played a role in shaping our nation’s future. As an undergraduate, I felt a deep connection to the generations of leaders educated here before me. This initiative builds on this tradition and will prepare William & Mary’s next generation of great public servants."

— Chancellor Robert M. Gates ‘65, LHD ’98

The Robert M. Gates Initiative in American Statecraft is a hub for intergenerational learning and policy-relevant research on non-military tools of U.S. foreign policy — encompassing diplomacy, technology, geoeconomic tools, and security and development assistance. It brings together students, faculty, and officials from across the government and the private sector to tackle the most pressing issues in U.S. foreign policy. 

The Gates Initiative in American Statecraft is a collaboration between the Global Research Institute and the Robert M. Gates Global Policy Center (GGPC), founded by Chancellor Gates to reimagine, restructure and restrengthen America’s non-military instruments of power. Ryan Musto, an historian of the Cold War and nuclear issues, and Eric Brown, who writes and teaches on world politics, strategy, and global trends, co-direct the initiative.

The initiative is built on four pillars:

• Academic coursework
• Research 
• Residential fellowships for practitioners
• Gates Forums convened by Chancellor Gates

These engagements cultivate the next generation of national security leaders who are equipped to navigate our complex world.

“By examining the lessons of the last 250 years of American engagement with the world, the Gates Initiative in American Statecraft will put the Alma Mater of the Nation front and center in ensuring that American power is used well and wisely for the next 250 years.”

— President Katherine A. Rowe