Convene

At the Vanderbilt Institute of National Security, convening is about creating space for the conversations that are hardest to have and most necessary to move forward. We bring together leaders from government, industry, academia, and the military in a setting defined by institutional neutrality and a commitment to open, honest debate. Outside the Beltway and free from echo chambers, our forums are designed to surface practical ideas and build trust across perspectives. The goal is not consensus for its own sake, but progress grounded in clarity and shared purpose.

From high-level summits to working sessions and public forums, our convenings connect thought leaders with students, researchers, and practitioners who are shaping the future of national security. These gatherings are built to form durable partnerships, spark collaboration, and translate dialogue into action. By bridging disciplines and communities, we help move complex challenges from conversation to coordinated effort.

Asness Summit on Modern Conflict and Emerging Threats

Explore our past summits to see how national security leaders, scholars, and practitioners have come together to tackle the most pressing challenges of the moment. Learn more about our upcoming summit and previous summits:

The Institute’s Lecture Series: National Security, Up Close

Discover our lecture series, where leading voices from government, industry, and academia share perspectives on the evolving challenges facing national security. View past talks and see how to attend an upcoming lecture to join the conversation.

Featured Institute Events News

Special Lecture on Modern Conflict and Emerging Threats with Sir Richard Moore

Sir Richard Moore, KCMG, shared insights from his time as Chief of the UK's Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) as part of the Lecture Series on Modern Conflict and Emerging Threats

15th Annual National Security Symposium Hosts Admiral Frank Caldwell (Ret.)

Retired Admiral Frank Caldwell reflected on his career of leadership and the future of national security during the annual Vanderbilt National Security Symposium

2025 Summit Highlights and Impactful Moments

Key takeaways from the 2025 Summit on Modern Conflict and Emerging Threats