Strengthening Alliances Through Learning: NPS Hosts European International Alumni Symposium
In a significant move to bolster European and global security partnerships, the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) recently hosted its inaugural European International Alumni Symposium in Garmisch, Germany, from September 29 to October 3. This landmark event brought together over 100 NPS alumni from 29 nations across Europe, showcasing the institution’s commitment to fostering international collaboration in defense and security.
A Strategic Initiative
The symposium was partially sponsored by the U.S. Department of State as part of the International Military Education Training (IMET) program. This initiative aligns with the strategic priorities outlined by Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro, emphasizing the importance of strengthening international alliances for collective defense. The event also supports the “Enhance Partnerships” objective in the Naval Education Strategy, which aims to create opportunities for learning alongside allies and partners—an essential aspect of deterring conflict and navigating strategic power competition.
Insights from Leadership
Adm. Stuart Munsch, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, underscored the pivotal role of educational institutions in shaping the future during his welcoming remarks. He stated, “In so many ways, [educational institutions] are the engines of what happens in the future.” Munsch highlighted that these institutions not only equip individuals with specialized knowledge but also cultivate critical and strategic thinking skills essential for future leaders. The Naval Postgraduate School, he noted, stands out as a key player in this educational landscape.
A Rich Agenda of Discussions
Building on the success of the previous Indo-Pacific NPS Alumni Symposium, the European symposium featured a comprehensive agenda over three days. Attendees engaged in plenary sessions, panels, and keynote addresses covering a wide array of topics, including energy security, space systems, contested logistics, and climate change. NPS faculty presented cutting-edge research in emerging defense technologies, fostering academic collaboration and strategic engagement with international partners.
Networking and Relationship Building
Beyond the formal discussions, the symposium served as a vital platform for alumni to reconnect and strengthen relationships. U.S. Army Gen. Christopher Cavoli, Supreme Allied Commander and Commander of U.S. European Command, emphasized the importance of these connections, stating, “These relationships matter and continuing to cultivate them matters because our alumni network is a vital resource.” The event provided an unparalleled opportunity for participants to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and foster innovation on a global scale.
Focus on Climate and Energy Security
One of the standout sessions of the symposium addressed the pressing issues of climate and energy security in Europe. Kristen Fletcher from NPS’ Energy Academic Group highlighted ongoing research in this critical area. Attendees also visited the Schneefernerhaus Environmental Research Station, Germany’s highest environmental research facility, to learn about its history and current climate research initiatives. Fletcher remarked, “This symposium has given us the chance to share global perspectives on climate security,” emphasizing the need for awareness and partnerships to understand the impacts of climate change on military missions.
Reconnecting with the NPS Community
As the symposium drew to a close, participants expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to reconnect with former classmates, professors, and new colleagues. Maj. Gen. Claudiu Dobocan, commander of the Romanian Special Operations Command and a 2004 NPS Defense Analysis graduate, reflected on the importance of NPS in shaping cooperative security and collective defense strategies. He noted that NPS alumni are well-represented in key NATO positions, contributing significantly to both operational and future planning efforts.
The Role of NPS in Global Security
NPS has a long-standing tradition of attracting students from around the globe, advancing their skills while fostering enduring personal connections. The international alumni symposiums play a crucial role in strengthening these relationships while addressing contemporary challenges. Tea Nikolashvili, a 2024 Security Studies graduate and director of the Defense Institution Building School in Georgia, articulated the value of these gatherings: “NPS gives us the opportunity to connect people from different countries, different cultures, building trust and the feeling that we are stronger together.”
Organizational Support and Legacy
The event was organized by NPS’ International Graduate Programs Office (IGPO), with additional support from the NPS Foundation and Alumni Association. Since its establishment in 1909, NPS has graduated over 7,000 students from nearly 130 countries, contributing to a rich legacy of international collaboration in defense education.
Danial Pick, director of IGPO, encapsulated the essence of the symposium by stating, “None of us are as strong as all of us.” He highlighted that allied countries send their best to NPS, enriching the learning environment and strengthening future alliances—an essential endeavor in today’s complex global landscape.
A Commitment to Innovation and Education
Through its unique, defense-focused graduate education and research programs, NPS continues to drive knowledge and innovation to enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its international partners. Retired Vice Adm. Ann Rondeau, NPS President, expressed her gratitude for the collaborative efforts that made the symposium a success, particularly thanking the George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies for co-hosting the event.
As NPS moves forward, it remains dedicated to providing transformative solutions and innovative leaders through advanced education and research, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of international defense collaboration. For more insights and highlights from the symposium, attendees and interested parties can view a recap on the NPS YouTube channel.