The Maxwell School of Syracuse University awarded $8.7 million Department of Defense training contract

The Maxwell School of Syracuse University awarded $8.7 million Department of Defense training contractJanuary 20, 2001Jill Leonhardtjlleonha@maxwell.syr.edu

National Security Studies program for senior military and civilian executives wins five-year extension

The Maxwell School of Syracuse University has been awarded a second five-year, $8.7 million Department of Defense (DOD) contract to continue its National Security Studies executive training program for senior military and civilian executives. Maxwell and Johns Hopkins University’s Nitze School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) have conducted the program jointly since 1996 and won the renewal over strong competition from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government and the RAND Graduate School. This is the second-largest training contract ever awarded to SU. Since 1996, nearly 800 senior military officers and civilian executives from the Department of Defense and other government agencies, defense-related industries, the media and congressional staff have participated in a range of two-and-a-half-day, two-week or six-week National Security Studies offerings–integrated courses of academic and practical instruction providing sophisticated leadership training and development.  Using simulations, complex case studies, and small-group decision-making exercises, participants confront the same challenges with which they must wrestle in real-life as national security managers and leaders. Each brings his or her own unique experiences to the program, which further enrich the classes for everyone. Within DOD, attendance at these programs is considered an enhancement for promotion potential.  National Security Studies offers access to experts who deeply understand the political, social, economic, historic and organizational forces that affect leadership style and change within the Department of Defense. Past presenters include Vice President-elect Dick Cheney, Secretary of State-designate Colin Powell, Health and Human Services Secretary Donna Shalala and Ambassador Richard Armitage. Maxwell School and SAIS faculty from many disciplines provide the core of the program’s instruction, which is directed by Maxwell’s Bantle Professor of Business and Government Policy and former Secretary of the Navy Sean O’Keefe.

“National Security Studies challenged me in virtually every dimension,” says U.S. Air Force Col. Richard Newton. “It raised my ability to think critically, as well as to ask the right questions at the right time. The faculty opened up entire new worlds for me across the national security spectrum–from current social, political, legal and defense issues and where they intersect to rediscovering our nation’s foundations and rich historical past. I am a better USAF officer and better wing commander because of the time well spent with my fellow students and the NSS faculty and staff.”  “This is the best course I have attended since the Army War College,” says U.S. Army Reserves Maj. Gen. Lloyd D. Burtch. “It is every bit at the same level and provides an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas and think with senior military and civilian leaders in defense, state and economic arenas. It was an outstanding opportunity.”  Robert J. Krutchen, technical director of the Air Force’s Air Mobility Command, agrees.  “The single most striking aspect of the course is the quality, quantity and close, informal contact between the speakers and the students. I personally have never been involved in a course where so many one-on-one informal extended discussions took place between students and world-class leaders who have ‘been there, done that.’ I’ve been given a first-hand view of how the national security leaders can, do and should act at the highest levels.”