As part of our effort to educate and launch our top student leaders into careers that further our mission, AHS is proud to announce and congratulate the 2022 cohort of National Defense Fellows. Emerging from a competitive applicant pool, these student leaders each stood out for their accomplishments on and off campus, as well as their passion for national security and dedication to public service.
As part of the fellowship, the students will take part in the Peace Through Strength Boot Camp in Washington, DC and the Reagan National Defense Forum (RNDF) in Simi Valley, CA. Through the intensive four-day boot camp, the students will have a unique opportunity to learn from the nation’s foremost defense policy thought-leaders and practitioners and will emerge with a strong fundamental understanding of defense affairs, covering specific topics such as: budgeting, strategy, civil-military relations, force structure, readiness, the industrial base, and the future of warfare. The students will also attend the Reagan National Defense Forum (RNDF), the nation’s premier gathering of defense professionals. You can learn more about the fellowship here.
2022 National Defense Fellows
Zuri Cassell, Indiana University ‘23
Zuri Cassell is a fourth-year student at Indiana University Bloomington earning his B.S. in International Studies from the Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies and an honors certificate from the Liberal Arts and Management Program. Through these studies, Zuri has been able to pursue business, public policy, and foreign affairs, which are interests that he developed through travel experiences growing up and university coursework. As a National Defense Fellow, Zuri hopes to develop a framework for thinking about defense and American national security. Furthermore, he hopes to interact with business leaders and policy makers in the defense. In the next five years, Zuri hopes to have developed business and industry specific skills working first for a management consulting firm and then for a defense firm. After this, he plans return to school and earn a law degree.
OLEKSII ANTONIUK, YALE University ‘24
Oleksii Antoniuk is a junior at Yale University studying Global Affairs and Economics. At Yale, he led the Alexander Hamilton Society as the Chapter President and assisted professors in their research about Russia's perception of NATO enlargement. Oleksii interned at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) this summer. He analyzed intelligence about Russia's military operations in Ukraine, Russian military cadre shuffles, and the Ukrainian partisan movement. Oleksii is especially interested in the intersection between economics and warfare - economic mobilization, sanctions, and military production as they pertain to Russia. Oleksii also previously interned at the Ukrainian Parliament and Kyiv City Administration. During the National Defense Fellowship, Oleksii hopes to learn more about US military affairs beyond what traditional university education offers. He also looks forward to meeting other AHS members and getting to know them during the Boot Camp and RNDF. After graduation, Oleksii envisions himself working in the national security sector specializing in Russia and the post-Soviet space.
ALEXANDRA WONG, Princeton University '25
Alexandra Wong is a sophomore at Princeton University majoring in Public and International Affairs, with certificates in History & the Practice of Diplomacy and Russian, East European, & Eurasian Studies. With a high school background in classics, and after studying Russian in the Department of State’s NSLI-Y program, she became interested in the history of international order and conflict. She is particularly interested in great power competition, the role of the United States, and regional security in democratizing states in the post-Soviet sphere and the Balkans. This summer, she worked at the Center for the Study of Democracy in Sofia, Bulgaria, where she researched Kremlin geoeconomics operations, illicit finance, and disinformation throughout southeast Europe. She also serves as a Student Associate at the Liechtenstein Institute on Self-Determination and tutors introductory economics on campus. Through the National Defense Fellowship, she hopes to gain an understanding of the US’s military capabilities and pressing issues in defense affairs beyond the theory taught in the classroom. After graduation, she plans to attend law school and pursue a career in national security law or promoting American interests at an international organization.
ELI GLICKMAN, University of California, Berkeley '25
Eli Glickman is a sophomore pursuing a double major in economics and political science with a concentration in international relations at the University of California, Berkeley. He is the President and Co-Founder of the Alexander Hamilton Society chapter at Berkeley. He also is a member of the Debate Society of Berkeley and the UC Berkeley Nuclear Policy Working Group. In the summer of 2022, he studied theory of war under Dr. Kori Schake and Dr. Dominic Tierney at the American Enterprise Institute’s Summer Honors Program. His primary research interests include grand strategy, great-power competition, and deterrence. He hopes the RRI-AHS National Defense Fellowship will help him center his theoretical ideas in more concrete understandings of budgeting policy, civil-military relations, and force structure, to name a few. Upon graduation, he hopes to obtain a master’s degree in security studies or international policy. After that, he intends to work in public service, in either the Department of Defense or Congress.
JACOB LEON, Washington University in St. Louis '23
Jacob Leon is a political science major concentrating in international politics and methods with a minor in the modern Middle East. While Jacob cannot point to one event or person who influenced his choice of study, there has certainly been a progression stemming from his upbringing towards Israel and an appreciation for America’s mission. He is thrilled to participate in the Fellowship for two primary reasons. First, the Fellowship provides a first-rate introduction into security strategy that would address his curiosity about defense as both a discipline and as a career: although he has examined what decisions leaders in defense make, he is yet to explore how leaders reach pragmatic conclusions. Second, the Fellowship presents an unparalleled opportunity to learn from and to converse with national security’s foremost decision makers at the Reagan National Defense Forum, an otherwise exclusive environment where he could appraise a career in defense directly from its practitioners. Jacob has no precise career-goals in mind, though he is interested in pursuing opportunities in the defense, consulting, and think-tank spheres.
ALEXANDER JOEL, Dartmouth College '25
Alexander Joel is a sophomore at Dartmouth College majoring in Government with a minor in Russian Area Studies. In the realm of security studies, he is interested in the multidisciplinary nature of defense and national security. Specifically, he wants to better understand how economic, environmental, and sociological issues interact with—and often amplify—security crises. Alex currently works as a Research Assistant to Professor William Wohlforth, Faculty Director of Dartmouth’s Initiative for Global Security, on a project typologizing different kinds of subversive statecraft. He spent last summer in Armenia studying at Yerevan State University as a Fulbright-Hays Fellow for Advanced Russian Language and Area Studies. Alex is excited to deepen his understanding of American national security issues by engaging with high-level defense policymakers through the RRI-AHS National Defense Fellowship. He plans to pursue a career in diplomacy or international law after graduation.
BRIAN LEE, Columbia University '24
Brian Lee is a junior at Columbia University majoring in Political Science (with a focus on International Relations) and minoring in Hispanic Studies. His interest in policy began in high school when he became involved in Regis’ speech and debate team, and he has continued to be involved in government and policy work since. Brian has had experience interning for and working with various organizations in the policy sector, such as the New York City President’s Office, nonprofit NGOS, UC Berkeley’s Center for Effective Global Action, and more. However, he now hopes to shift his focus to diplomacy and become involved with foreign policy. To this extent, Brian views the National Defense Fellowship as an opportunity to directly learn about American defense policy from the officials and analysts who created it. He also looks forward to making valuable professional and personal connections with both the experts and the fellows present at both events. Ultimately, Brian hopes that the National Defense Fellowship will be the starting point for a career in foreign policy, particularly with regard to Latin American relations.
esther ko, university of texas at austin ‘23
Esther Ko is a graduate student at the LBJ School of Public Affairs at UT Austin studying global policy. During her time there, she has been able to deepen her understanding of the many different facets of national and international security. What started off as a general interest in international security during her undergraduate studies has now evolved into her research in graduate school focusing mainly on nuclear nonproliferation and advanced reactor designs in civilian nuclear facilities. With the current existing condition of international security at a crossroads, Esther believes both the weapons and civilian energy components of nuclear nonproliferation will prove to be crucial in shaping the future of U.S. national security policy. Through the National Defense Fellowship, Esther hopes to be able to enhance her understanding of the logistics of U.S. defense affairs, particularly as she looks to expand her graduate research into missile defense systems and emerging military technologies this academic year. She believes learning from distinguished senior leaders in the national security and military communities through this fellowship will help her to develop research that is both realistic and implementable, and will ultimately provide a clearer understanding of working in U.S. defense affairs as she looks to dedicate her career to public service.
MIKE DAUM, Hampden-Sydney College '23
Mike Daum is a student, combat veteran and highly motivated problem solver seeking to take on new challenges in the national security arena. Currently he lives in Blackstone, VA where he is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and National Security Studies at Hampden-Sydney College and will graduate in May of 2023. At H-SC, Mike researches the psychology of In-Extremis strategic decision making and competition. He also serves as the peer advisor for National Security Program and chapter president of the Alexander Hamilton Society. Before his time at H-SC, Mike served as a squad leader in a reconnaissance unit with the 82nd Airborne Division in Afghanistan. While deployed, he realized the importance of implementing effective strategies to win on the battlefield and understand the minds of both our adversaries and those we liberate. Mike enjoyed being an enlisted warfighter but wanted to pursue a new challenge to serve his country. After graduation, Mike is considering a career within the intelligence community or crafting defense and foreign policy solutions to counter an increasingly dangerous world. Mike believes that the National Defense Fellowship will broaden his understanding of the challenges surrounding the formation of sound national security policy and illuminate new career opportunities.
ABIGAIL KIM, Claremont McKenna College '23
Abi Kim is a senior at Claremont McKenna College, dual-majoring in Government and Psychology. Her experience in speech and debate exposed her to the widespread impact of federal policies, and her passion for effecting change at the national level was strengthened by her Virtual Student Federal Service internships with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. Over the summer, she interned with Exiger to help secure the supply chains of Department of Defense clients and loved the opportunity to learn about a rarely-considered side to defense. Through the National Defense Fellowship, Abi is looking forward to building the foundations of knowledge necessary for a successful career in defense innovation. She is excited to make the most of this opportunity to meet fellow students and professionals passionate about maintaining American security and learn more about aspects of defense not covered in traditional university curriculum. In the future, Abi hopes to assist in furthering the integration of advanced technology in the U.S. military to ensure American competitive ability with nearpeer powers.
SOREN ETTINGER DECOU, University of Texas '23
Soren Ettinger DeCou is an undergraduate student at the University of Texas at Austin, pursuing degrees in biomedical engineering, core texts, and a minor in Mandarin. At UT, Soren serves as a Senior Undergraduate Fellow with the Clements Center for National Security where she studies defense, national security, and foreign affairs. Soren is also the founder and editor in chief of the Clements Center’s first undergraduate journal, the Texas Strategist. Most recently, she completed an internship with the State Department in the Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation. She is fascinated by emerging technology and scientific innovation and she believes there should be more policy-makers in government with technical backgrounds. In addition to national security, Soren is passionate about education equity and civic engagement. As an NDF fellow, Soren looks forward to engaging intellectually with her peers, participating in rigorous professional development, and thinking critically about current defense and security issues. After graduation, Soren hopes to pursue a career in national security with an emphasis on science and technology.
MATT BOLANDER, Taylor University '22
Matt Bolander recently graduated from Taylor University in Upland, Indiana where he studied Philosophy, Political Science, Economics (PPE), and Law. Matt became interested in studying these fields because he grew up about 40 minutes from Baltimore where he saw how policy failures like poverty and homelessness lead to further issues within communities that caused the fracturing of what was once an incredible city of commerce and prosperity. Matt gained a larger interest in international relations and defense while studying U.S. foreign policy. Being able to travel has also opened his eyes and his mind to the perspective that is gained from experiencing other cultures. Matt hopes the fellowship will help give him a better understanding of how defense policy is made and looks forward to interacting with like-minded peers and experts in the field. In the next five years, he hopes to serve America through working on the Hill for the upcoming nine months and then returning to Indiana to launch an entrepreneurial venture.
MICHAEL STANTON, George Washington University ‘24
Michael Stanton is a recent graduate of the College of the Holy Cross where he majored in political science and minored in Asian studies. His undergraduate studies underscored the central role the Indo-Pacific will play in US foreign policy throughout the 21st century and the immense challenges stemming from Asia. This fall he started his master’s program in Security Policy Studies at The George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs with the goal to further develop his understanding of US defense policy in the Indo-Pacific. Michael currently interns at the Ronald Reagan Institute where he assists its three policy centers in its work to promote Reagan’s ideals and vision to address today’s most pressing problems. He aspires to work in US defense policy formulation after graduate school, pursuing a career in public service. Michael is excited to attend the Peace Through Strength boot camp and Reagan National Defense Forum to learn from esteemed thinkers at the forefront of national security policy development and implementation. These experiences will further his understanding of the present security challenges facing the United States and how to counteract them.
KELLY MONRO, Washington State University '23
Kelly Monro is a senior at Washington State University studying Political Science and Data Analytics. She is currently a student trainee at the Department of State where she performs program and policy analysis. Early exposure to defense and international affairs through nationwide debate, science, and technology competitions initially piqued Kelly’s interest, inspiring her to pursue opportunities in Washington, D.C. Having watched the creation and implementation of cybersecurity and national defense legislation during her tenure as an intern in the House of Representatives, she honed her interest from national defense at-large to cyber infrastructure and security policy. Kelly recently completed a cybersecurity program from George Washington University, having acquired a CompTIA Security+ certificate during the winter of 2022. Over the next five years, Kelly plans to continue her career in public service and guide the U.S. Federal Government’s response to cyber incidents and warfare. As part of the 2022 RRI-AHS National Defense Fellowship, Kelly is excited to interact with and gain valuable insight from both her fellow cohort members and distinguished professionals.
CHRISTOPHER KELLY SCHULTE, University of California, Berkeley '21
Kelly Schulte graduated from UC Berkeley in 2021 with a degree in Applied Mathematics and a concentration in data science. A passion for solving problems led him to the field of mathematics; an inherent interest in community and national service steered him towards opportunities within the Department of Defense. While at Berkeley, he was a candidate at USMC OCS and participated in the National Security Innovation Network’s (NSIN) X-Force Fellowship. Currently, he is a Program Manager in the Collaboration Portfolio at NSIN. Already with previous exposure to numerous applications of national security, Kelly intends for this fellowship to deepen his understanding of the foundational theories that determine decision-making in the DoD. The fellowship will provide skills and knowledge to allow him to continue his work solving national security problems with greater prudence and efficiency. After working with NSIN, he plans to return to Officer Candidate School for the Marine Corps, and ultimately aims to attend law school.
DAVID BROSTOFF, American University '24
David Brostoff is a junior at American University, where he is an international relations major and a Lincoln Scholar in political theory. Since he was in high school, David has been incredibly interested in international relations thought. Among his favorite texts include Thucydides’ History of the Peloponnesian War and Hans Morgenthau’s Scientific Man Versus Power Politics. Over time, this passion for theory piqued his interest in grand strategy. During the National Defense Fellowship, David is looking to deepen his understanding of American grand strategy, as well as meet like-minded students. In the future, he wants to use these lessons and approaches in service of the United States. After graduating from American University, David intends to enroll in graduate school in order to further his intellectual pursuits. David is looking forward to careers in think tanks and the government. One day, David hopes to join the Policy Planning Staff of the U.S. Department of State.
LAWRENCE TREVETTE, Georgetown University '23
Lawrence Trevettee is majoring in international politics with a concentration in international security studies and minoring in Russian. He became fascinated with security studies his sophomore year of high school when his AP European History teacher taught him about the nature and significance of Westphalian sovereignty, the Nuremburg trials, just war theory, and substate violence post-decolonization. Lawrence hopes to get a more detailed understanding of how to craft national security policy from the fellowship. He would also like to learn from national security leaders on the magnitude of the threats that the United States faces and how best to counter them. He hopes to create long-lasting relationships with his future colleagues and current mentors in national security throughout the fellowship. After graduation, he would like to stay at Georgetown University to attend graduate school and get a master’s degree in security studies. At the same time, he would like to work for the Department of Defense or as a staffer on the Senate Armed Services Committee. Eventually, he would like to become a senior national security and defense policymaker.
KRISTIN ZHU, Duke University '24
Kristin Zhu is a junior at Duke University studying Public Policy and Political Science. Kristin became interested in both fields for different reasons, (advocacy and Model UN, respectively), but is now studying both in hopes of merging her commitment to public service and interest in international affairs. With the National Defense Fellowship, she hopes to learn more about current U.S. defense goals from distinguished scholars in an intensive but rewarding environment. Kristin intends to learn as much as she can about defense as a field, especially within her regional focuses– MENA and the Indo-Pacific– being the two foci of U.S. security interests within the last two decades. She also hopes to learn how the foremost defense professionals have charted their paths and made their mark in U.S. foreign policy. Over the next five years, Kristin hopes to continue her studies in international law and gain experience working within the U.S. government.
maya reddy, vanderbilt university ‘24
Maya Reddy is a junior at Vanderbilt University, studying Molecular and Cellular Biology and Political Science, with a minor in Communications of Science and Technology. At Vanderbilt, Maya enjoys competing in debate, which led her to discover her passion for bioethics and health policy. She also is a teaching assistant for biology, an officer in her AHS chapter, and participates in undergraduate research. After graduation, Maya hopes to attend Georgetown University for her master’s before pursuing a career in biodefense. Biodefense is a very broad topic of interest, and Maya hopes that the National Defense Fellowship will allow her to explore more opportunities within this realm. As a National Defense Fellow, Maya is excited to learn as much as she can about American Defense Strategy, especially pertaining to biosecurity and the future of warfare. She is also so grateful for the opportunity to network within the defense community and meet new friends!
GEORGE SARBINOWSKI, Cornell University '24
George Sarbinowski is in the Cornell University College of Arts and Sciences class of '24 pursuing a dual degree in Government and Near Eastern Studies. On campus, he is active in Cornell’s Alexander Hamilton Society chapter, the Cornell Political Union, and Cornell’s Army ROTC battalion. George debates and writes about foreign and defense policy, studies Turkish language, politics, and culture, and enjoys mountaineering and fitness. At the RNDF, he hopes to meet top academic, military, and industry leaders dedicated to America’s national defense to discuss the importance of defense in foreign and domestic policy. He is particularly interested in unconventional warfare, intelligence, and the military domain of outer space. George is also interested in how targeted financial investments can drive military innovation to technologically place America ahead of geopolitical adversaries. Upon graduation from Cornell, he wishes to continue his interest in defense and foreign policy.