National Security Fellows Advise Top U.S. Agencies

Students from National Security Fellowship team presented their research findings to officials from the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Defense.

In the spring of 2024, the 2023-2024 National Security Fellowship (NSF) graduate student research team presented their findings to leaders at several high-ranking institutions, including the Pentagon, and the Harry S. Truman Building and the Foreign Press Center, both at the U.S. Department of State. As part of a project for the State Department (DoS), the NSF team delivered a comprehensive report, presentation, and policy recommendations to the Bureau of Global Public Affairs, the Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs, the Office of International Media Engagement, the Foreign Press Centers, and the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security for Sensitive Activities and Special Programs within the Department of Defense (DoD).

The students' recommendations were presented to the Bureau of Global Public Affairs for consideration and potential implementation. The Bureau engaged with the students to discuss the functionality and real-world applicability of their proposals. The team was also requested to present to Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), the Defense Attache Office (DAO) of Peru, and the Irregular Warfare Center (IWC).

Led by Sharkey Scholar and alumnus Mohamad Mirghahari (B.A. '02/ M.A. '04), the NSF team's research focused on several policy recommendations that the DoS could use to identify and counter Russian and Chinese influence in Central and South America.

The students researched the strategic influence of these foreign powers in Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, identifying key areas where the U.S. could strengthen its policies, such as by engaging with diaspora and exiled journalists. Following a meeting with the Bureau of Global Public Affairs, the students focused on how the DoS could engage with diaspora journalists from Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela within the U.S. They explored ways in which amplifying the voices of these journalists could help achieve the DoS's goals in Central and South America.

With insights from professors and guest lecturers at the School of Diplomacy, the team produced their operational paper, "Russian and Chinese Influence in Central and South America: An Analysis Focused on Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela."

The team's research and final recommendations were presented to various officials from the State Department and the Department of Defense, highlighting strategic narratives to counter foreign influence and address regional grievances, as well as to bolster democratic institutions and the free exchange of information in the region. They proposed messaging campaigns with regional and international actors, as well as conducting cybersecurity awareness campaigns. The group also suggested expanding cooperation with international media organizations, amplifying media co-ops performed by the Foreign Press Centers, and collaboration with independent media sources to combat disinformation and malign influence. The presentations were well received, sparking further discussion and interest.

The NSF fellowship offers students unique networking and learning opportunities. Throughout the year, Mr. Mirghahari brought in a diverse range of guest speakers to consider the students' recommendations, provide feedback, and discuss their fields of expertise. This year's speakers included: former National Security Spokesman and current political podcaster Tommy Vietor, former White House aide Clare Gallagher, and former U.S. Army Special Operations member and Ph.D. candidate Salvador Artiaga. These experts provided valuable feedback and career advice, emphasizing adaptability, tenacity, a commitment to learning, and the importance of networking.

Reflecting on the year, second-year graduate student Zane Cawthon shared his appreciation for the program: "The National Security Fellowship broadened my professional horizons, offered tangible experience in research and analysis, and provided me with a genuine opportunity to explore national security policy. Without a doubt, it is the most personally impactful program I have been a part of at Seton Hall. I am so grateful for each contributor who made it possible, from Dean Smith and the administration at the School, to Professor Mirghahari and generous supporters. I'd also like to thank my colleagues on the team who made the late-night editing meetings and long drive to DC worth it."

The National Security Fellowship equips students with practical skills and networking opportunities. Co-team leader Jaasiel Forde remarked, "I am extremely proud of this team for their hard work in taking two complex prompts and combining them to provide one, cohesive report with succinct recommendations for the DoS. I am excited for the first-year students to press forward with a spirit of excellence which the National Security Fellowship has maintained for the next year."

Co-leader Joshua Smith emphasized the program's lasting impact on students, noting, "The National Security Fellowship provides students with academic excellence, rigorous research experience, and leadership qualities that will follow them in whatever careers they choose to pursue. Ultimately, it is a best-in-class fellowship that helps students become exemplary professionals. The combination of practical experience, comprehensive research skills, and interaction with seasoned professionals equips NSF fellows with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their future careers. This fellowship is not just an academic program; it is a transformative experience that builds growth, resilience, and a commitment to excellence."

This year's research team included eleven graduate students from the School of Diplomacy and International Relations. Team leaders Joshua Smith and Jaasiel Forde guided Anneliese Preske, Zane Cawthon, Anthony Morisi, Carter Bucken, Emmanuel Ogundele, Juan Carreon, and Mary Burke through their yearlong project, with Delfronce Sanders and Jocelyn Anderson serving as advisors.

For more information, please contact: Joshua Smith and Jaasiel Forde.

Categories: Education, Nation and World

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