Graham Allison

Founding dean of Harvard's modern John F. Kennedy School of Government and Director of the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs from 1995 until July 2017, Graham Allison has been a prominent figure in U.S. national security and defense policy, focusing especially on nuclear terrorism and the dynamics of international conflict. As a Douglas Dillon Professor of Government at the Kennedy School, Allison has combined academic insight with practical policymaking. He served as Special Advisor to the Secretary of Defense under President Reagan and as Assistant Secretary of Defense in the first Clinton Administration, during which he received the Defense Department's highest civilian award, the Defense Medal for Distinguished Public Service, twice for his efforts in nuclear security and defense policy.

Under his leadership at the Belfer Center, Allison assembled a team of leading scholars and practitioners to critically assess national security issues, including terrorism. He significantly expanded the scope and impact of the center's research and policy recommendations. His role in organizing the Commission on America's National Interests was pivotal, with its findings influencing U.S. policy and legislative actions concerning emerging threats.

Additionally, Allison is a recognized authority on the relationship between the U.S. and major powers like Russia and China. His analysis on these subjects has been influential, as seen in his authorship of books such as "Destined for War: Can America and China Escape Thucydides’s Trap?" and "Nuclear Terrorism: The Ultimate Preventable Catastrophe." He has also been instrumental in the establishment and development of the modern Kennedy School, significantly expanding its programs and influence during his tenure as founding dean from 1977 to 1989. Allison continues to contribute to important national discussions through his participation on several advisory boards and defense policy committees.