Mission
The George Washington University Homeland Security Policy Institute (HSPI) is a unique, nonpartisan “think and do tank” that builds bridges between theory and practice to advance homeland security through a multi and interdisciplinary approach. By convening policymakers and practitioners at all levels of government, academia, think-tanks and the private sector, HSPI creates innovative strategies and solutions to current and future threats to the nation.

Current Initiatives

Recent achievements

Research
Working jointly with more than a dozen GW research institutes, HSPI marshals their strengths in a variety of subjects ranging from terrorism to infrastructure protection to aviation safety. HSPI has selected more than 60 nationally recognized homeland security leaders from outside the university who will serve as senior fellows in addition to naming a handful of GW resident scholars. The senior fellows and resident scholars will conduct research, participate in task forces and publish issue papers.

Policy Analysis
Endeavoring to link the doers and thinkers, the Institute continually works with outside organizations and hosts monthly roundtable discussions which bring together senior leaders from the government, academia and the private sector to discuss and devise strategies and solutions to the pressing issues in homeland security. HSPI recently co-authored a citizen preparedness report with the Department of Homeland Security and the American Red Cross that makes recommendations for the government, private sector and citizens and has released two other actionable reports to Congress. The Institute also hosted new DHS Secretary Michael Chertoff’s first policy address in March 2005, in addition to previously hosting DHS Secretary Tom Ridge on a number of occasions.

Education
The Institute is working with GW academic departments and professors to create innovative programs, degrees and courses for undergraduate and graduate students in the diverse range of fields related to homeland security including emergency management, forensic science and policy analysis. We continue to bring national leaders and homeland security practitioners to campus to interact with students, in addition to partnering with the private and public sector to offer internships and jobs for students.

Training
Preparing first responders on the front lines is vital to the nation’s effort to prevent, prepare and react to threats facing the country. HSPI has worked with the federal government and local municipalities for preparedness training efforts.