One sure sign that marks the end of winter for us in the Jackson School is the Task Force Day during which members of the senior class complete their capstone projects with oral presentations in front of expert practitioners. This was another stellar year for the Donald C. Hellmann Task Force Program when our students prepared reports that studied important topics of our time ranging from Syrian Civil War to the rights of immigrants in the State of Washington. One of the most rewarding aspects of the Task Force Day for me is the praise I hear from outside evaluators who always come away deeply impressed by the quality of the work our students do.
“Such impressive work,” one of them wrote, admiring the students’ “active engagement” and their “good answers to hard questions.” Another one told me that he was jealous knowing that our jobs in the Jackson School included spending time in the company of such smart students.
Another highlight of this winter was the roundtable discussion on Climate Change and National Security that took place on March 6 featuring Governor Jay Inslee. In its composition and focus, this event was a perfect example of our core mission of creating opportunities for discussing important issues of our times.
As we move into Spring and towards Convocation, we look forward to many new programs, initiatives, and exciting series of courses. Starting on April 2, Trump in the World returns with presentations by Jackson School faculty and visitors. As part of this series, which is also a course, we will welcome Daniel Immerwahr on April 23 who will discuss his book, How to Hide an Empire: Telling the Story of the Greater United States. On May 2, we will host a day-long symposium in Washington D.C. titled “Does America Still Need Expert Advisors To Craft U.S. Foreign Policy?” which will be followed by a reception for our East Coast alumni.
These are but a handful of examples of hundreds of events and activities that originate from the 21 centers and programs that are housed in the Jackson School. You can find more information about all of them on our website and by following us on social media.
As always I am grateful to you for your interest, support and friendship.
Reşat Kasaba
Director – Henry M. Jackson School of International Studies
Stanley D. Golub Chair of International Studies
