On September 16, the Vanderbilt Institute of National Security welcomed a full house to the Studying National Security Launch, an evening event marking the official debut of Vanderbilt’s new Minor in National Security—and signaling the university’s growing commitment to preparing students for leadership in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Held in the Oliver C. Carmichael Great Room, the event opened with food, conversation, and remarks from university leaders, faculty, and students shaping the future of national security education at Vanderbilt.
Provost Cybele Raver opened the program by emphasizing Vanderbilt’s commitment to preparing students for real-world challenges through interdisciplinary study. She highlighted the value of combining majors and minors across disciplines to help students address complex issues like national security.
General Paul M. Nakasone (Ret.), founding director of the Institute and former director of the National Security Agency, reflected on why national security education matters now more than ever and encouraged students to consider the many ways they can contribute to strengthening the nation’s security landscape.
Since its soft launch on August 8, 20 students have already declared the new minor, a strong signal of student enthusiasm for national security as an academic and career path.
Professor Katherine Carroll described how the minor will serve as a foundation for a potential future major in national security, emphasizing leadership, collaboration, and experiential learning. Coursework will include tabletop exercises, a senior capstone project, and interdisciplinary electives that bridge technology, policy, and strategy.
Dean Krishnendu Roy attended the event to speak with students and faculty, showing strong support for the program and its role in preparing future leaders in national security.
Faculty highlights drew applause from students—including Professor Brad Smith, who pitched his upcoming course on Game Theory directly from the audience. The advising structure, faculty noted, will ensure that current world events are woven into classroom discussions, while offering flexible options for students interested in quantitative data science and other emerging fields.
Students shared their perspectives on the new minor, emphasizing the importance of hands-on, career-relevant experiences that connect classroom learning with real-world leadership opportunities.
With full attendance and lively engagement throughout, the Studying National Security Launch made clear that Vanderbilt students are ready to meet the challenges of a complex and interconnected world—starting right here, in the classroom.
Students interested in learning more or declaring the Minor in National Security can visit the Department of Political Science website.