Bush School students had the unique opportunity to visit with current Secretary of State Mike Pompeo during his recent visit to Texas A&M and ask questions about pressing issues in foreign policy and national security. Pompeo answered questions about relations with Iran and China, the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan, and how the US can continue to lead the international system.
Bush School second-year Master of International Affairs student Rebecca Schwarz opened the session, which was moderated by Ambassador Larry Napper and held in the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum. Now on the Bush School faculty, Napper’s thirty-one year Foreign Service career included posts in several countries, such as Kazakhstan, Latvia, and Romania.
A former member of the House of Representatives, Pompeo served as Director of the CIA prior to his appointment as Secretary of State. As well as answering students’ questions, he also shared personal stories from his career in the CIA and State Department.
“Being able to introduce a sitting Secretary of State is an amazing opportunity,” said Rebecca Schwarz. “It’s one of the advantages of studying at the Bush School.”
Bush School Dean Mark Welsh agreed: “We’re very fortunate that so many national and international leaders come to the Bush School at Texas A&M and that our students and faculty have a chance to meet them in small group settings where they are willing to share their experiences and expertise.”
