When we were founded in 1919, the world was emerging from a period of profound devastation. The aftermath of World War I and the Spanish Flu had left millions of lives lost, countries in turmoil, and the global order in disarray. At such a moment of international upheaval, our founders created this school driven by one bold vision: to dedicate ourselves to training a new generation of leaders to usher in a new century toward peace and prosperity.

That vision remains as urgent today as it was when we opened our doors. The world faces challenges as complex and consequential as those at the time of our founding. From humanitarian crises and increasing authoritarianism to the shifting dynamics of global power and the impacts of climate change, we find ourselves again at a critical juncture. The post-World War II world order is changing, and consensus among nations is difficult to find. So, the question becomes: who will step up to help shape what is to come? 

When you join our SFS community, you commit to engage the world’s challenges and to serve the greater good in whatever career path you choose. Our alumni are leaders in diplomacy, international business, environmental policy, national security and innovative start-ups, and you find them in every corner of the world. What unites them is a mindset that recognizes how interdependent the peoples of the world are and how important it is to build empathy for the diverse perspectives that shape our global community.

At the School of Foreign Service, we want you not only to deepen your understanding of the world, but to engage with it. We know that the world’s problems cannot be understood through the lens of any single discipline. That’s why our curriculum is based on a broad interdisciplinary foundation. At SFS, you’ll engage with history, culture, politics, economics and language, all intersecting to provide a complex, nuanced understanding of global issues. 

But an SFS education is not confined to the classroom. With our location in Washington, DC, our students engage in the practice of global affairs through internships and interactions with a seemingly never-ending flow of visiting dignitaries and changemakers. We also get our students out into the field as part of their coursework through specially designed, problem-driven classes and capstone experiences that reach out to every region of the world.

At the School of Foreign Service, you will be challenged—by your professors, peers and the world itself. The perspectives you encounter will sometimes be difficult, even provocative. But it is through these intellectual challenges that we grow. Here, you will be asked to confront your own beliefs, engage in spirited debates and look for new solutions to problems that demand innovation, creativity and empathy. 

As you navigate this journey, you will not only learn about diplomacy—you will practice it. You will examine historical case studies, understand the drivers of important events and immerse yourself in the dynamics of global politics. You will also learn the practice of diplomacy—how to engage across differences, negotiate complex issues and build solutions that consider humanity at the heart of every crisis.

Here, you will have the opportunity to engage with some of the brightest minds from around the world, to learn from one another’s experiences and to put those lessons into action. Our diverse community of students, faculty and alumni reflects the global stage we seek to influence. Our Washington, DC, location provides unparalleled access to policymakers and thought leaders who shape global conversations and participate in decisions that have real-world impact.

At the School of Foreign Service, we believe that through dialogue, critical thinking and engagement, we can lead in developing and understanding the ideas that will reshape the world. Together, we are part of a community of global leaders committed to this goal, and we are excited to see how you will make your mark on the world.

Sincerely,

Joel S. Hellman

Dean, School of Foreign Service