The Institute of World Politics

09/30/2026

IWP Alumni Spotlight: With a solid career in business and technology, Michael Limongello (’25) came to IWP to pursue a personal interest in international affairs.

What he found was an education that further honed his writing skills, empowered him to assist his clients in international decision-making more effectively, and opened the door to a senior advisory role with the Permanent Observer Mission of the Holy See to the United Nations.

In an interview with IWP, Michael discussed his role in advanced technology and diplomacy and how his online M.A. program allowed him to foster strong connections within the IWP community.

Read his story: https://www.iwp.edu/students-alumni/alumni/2026/09/24/michael-limongello-25-advanced-technology-and-diplomacy/

09/29/2026

Could criminal networks become one of Russia’s most useful intelligence tools?

Olivia Fanders sits down with Professor Glenn Corn to examine how Russian intelligence services are using criminals, proxy operatives, encrypted apps, cryptocurrency, and commercial technology to support covert operations.

From sabotage and surveillance to intimidation and assassination plots, the methods reveal how Russian intelligence continues to adapt when traditional intelligence networks are disrupted.

Watch the latest IWP News Update to learn how Russia’s modern operations draw from an intelligence playbook with deep historical roots.

09/25/2026

IWP doctoral students, alumni, and faculty gathered for a dinner together at IWP last week. The students shared about their backgrounds and research topics and heard from the directors of the Ph.D. and professional doctorate programs.

IWP is grateful to the Sarah Scaife Foundation, which has helped launch and sustain all of our doctoral programs.

09/24/2026

Two IWP alumni led a tour of the FBI Headquarters for a group of IWP students last week. They toured the operations center, visited the FBI Experience, and spoke with FBI officials.

Many thanks to our alumni who hosted our students and shared advice and insights from their careers!

09/23/2026

Alex Florescu (’18) has drawn on his IWP studies of intelligence and policymaking throughout his career with the U.S. Department of State.

Today, Alex promotes U.S. commercial interests in the Middle East and North Africa, helping American businesses succeed abroad while advancing international relationships.

In an interview with IWP, he reflected on his path from State Department intern to Foreign Affairs Officer, the experiences that have shaped his career, and why a commitment to public service continues to motivate him every day.

Read his story here: https://www.iwp.edu/students-alumni/alumni/2026/09/17/alex-florescu-18-u-s-state-department-foreign-affairs-officer/

Please note: None of the views expressed herein represent the views or policy of the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Government.

09/22/2026

Can Taiwan really deter China?

Record defense spending only tells part of the story. Weapons still have to arrive, mu*****ns have to be available, and military capabilities have to translate into credible operational deterrence.

IWP Broadcast Correspondent Olivia Fanders sits down with China expert and IWP Professor Dr. Christopher R. Lew to examine Taiwan’s defense readiness, weapons acquisition delays, industrial capacity, cyber threats, cognitive warfare, and the strategic pressures shaping the Pacific.

Watch the latest IWP News Update to hear what credible deterrence could require in a rapidly changing security environment.

09/11/2026

Twenty-five years ago, our nation was shaken by the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

Having stood the watch at the Pentagon the night before, IWP President Chris Glass, Sr. lost eight shipmates who were still on duty the next morning.

At IWP, we do our utmost to prevent surprise attacks like this by preparing leaders with the skills and wisdom they need to anticipate threats, prevent conflict where possible, and protect our nation when deterrence fails. Today, that mission remains as important as ever.

On this 25th anniversary, we remember the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, and all those whose lives were forever changed. We honor those who served and sacrificed in the years since and remain committed to educating leaders in national security, intelligence, and international affairs.

We will always remember. We will never forget.

📸: U.S. Navy

09/10/2026

For the second year in a row, the Jack Miller Center has awarded IWP funds to offer the Civic Thought and Statecraft Seminar as part of our National Security Internship Program.

Led by IWP’s Dean of Academics, Dr. Timothy McCranor, this seminar is designed to advance IWP’s broader mission of cultivating informed patriotism, moral leadership, civic virtue, and a principled understanding of the ethical use of national power.

IWP is grateful to the Jack Miller Center for its continued support of this seminar at IWP.

📸: National Security Interns participate in a debate at the conclusion of this summer’s seminar on whether the American Patriots had a just cause for armed rebellion under the just war tradition.

Read more: https://www.iwp.edu/press-releases/2026/09/09/jack-miller-center-supports-civic-thought-and-statecraft-seminar-at-iwp/

09/09/2026

How does geopolitical conflict translate into higher costs for businesses and consumers?

In this IWP News Update, Dr. Anne Bradley joins host Olivia Fanders to examine the economic fallout of the Iran war, including disruptions to energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz, rising transportation costs, and the broader impact of crude oil prices on consumer goods and global supply chains.

From higher fuel prices to increased shipping and production costs, an energy supply shock can move rapidly from the geopolitical arena into everyday economic life. The effects can reach far beyond the region, influencing businesses, consumers, trade, inflation, and economic stability around the world.

Join us for the full interview on Statecraft Unfiltered, airing Friday, September 11 at 10:00 a.m. on the IWP YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/

Subscribe to IWP and follow the IWP Broadcast for timely analysis of the global events shaping national security, foreign policy, economics, and statecraft.

09/08/2026

📸 A few moments from IWP’s new student orientation last week!