Tuesday, May 29 - Opening Plenary
Robert Gates's distinguished career in public service and higher education has had a significant influence on the field of the international education.
The former U.S. secretary of defense for both Presidents Obama and Bush has been a longtime advocate for global exchange. Prior to taking on a leadership role in the U.S. Department of Defense, Gates served as the president of Texas A&M University from 2002-2006. While there he pushed for international diversity on campus and was recognized as a proponent of international student–friendly visa policies.
Gates has also served on the Board of Directors of the American Council on Education and the National Association of State Universities and Land-Grant Colleges (now the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities). Gates brought his higher education expertise with him to Washington, DC, where he pushed to make significant foreign policy changes, most notably recommending major cuts to the defense department budget in favor of the Department of State’s budget during a time of war. He is currently chancellor of the College of William & Mary, his alma mater.
In June, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, America's highest civilian honor.
With an insider's view of U.S. higher education, Gates will share his perspective on many of the decisions that impacted the globe over the past decade.
What NAFSAns are Saying
Robert Gates used his position and connections, publicly and privately, to inspire Americans to think beyond their fears in a post 9/11 world.
He challenged us all to embrace international students, faculty and scholars and to increase student mobility during a time that was less than welcoming to these goals.
Suzanne Droleskey
Assistant Vice President, International Operations
Texas A&M UniversityFor decades he has been one of this country's greatest public servants, serving presidents of both parties with honor and distinction. Robert Gates has also been a steadfast and vocal supporter of international education in all its forms, ranging from the study of foreign languages and cultures to practical hands-on training in contemporary global affairs.
The entire William & Mary community is thrilled that Robert Gates, Class of 1965, has returned to his alma mater as our new Chancellor.
Stephen E. Hanson
Vice Provost for International Affairs
Director, Wendy and Emery Reves Center for International Studies
The College of William and Mary
