How I Got Here: Lives in Public Service

Project Expert

Gideon Rose

Adjunct Senior Fellow

About the Project

Through interviews and roundtables, I highlight subjects who have led outstanding lives of public service, in fields ranging from diplomacy and national security, to law and aid, to journalism and the academy. They have excelled as professionals and people and speak frankly of how their lives and careers unfolded, what they got right and wrong, and what advice they have for those coming after. Glittering with priceless historical nuggets, studded with hard-earned wisdom, the stories are fascinating alone and panoramic in conjunction.

Events

Censorship and Freedom of Expression

Education

Intelligence

Editor's note: On July 16, 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice arraigned CFR Senior Fellow Sue Mi Terry on charges of violating the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA). CFR has a rigorous FARA co…

Afghanistan

James Dobbins discusses his distinguished career in public service. Visit “How I Got Here: James Dobbins” on the Foreign Affairs Career Center for more information. The Lives in Public Service Roundtable Series features some of the country’s outstanding public servants discussing the lessons learned from their lives and careers.

Egypt

Frank G. Wisner discusses his distinguished career in public service, including working as former undersecretary of defense for policy, undersecretary of state for international security affairs, and ambassador to Zambia, Egypt, the Philippines, and India.  Visit “How I Got Here: Frank Wisner” on the Foreign Affairs Career Center for more information.  The Lives in Public Service Roundtable Series features some of the country’s outstanding public servants discussing the lessons learned from their lives and careers. 

U.S. Foreign Policy

Michèle Flournoy discusses her distinguished career in public service including working as former undersecretary of defense for policy.  Visit “How I Got Here: Michèle Flournoy” on the Foreign Affairs Career Center for more information.  The Lives in Public Service Roundtable Series features some of the country’s outstanding public servants discussing the lessons learned from their lives and careers.