International Policy Scholars Consortium and Network (IPSCON) Annual Retreat

Leading scholars, policymakers, and think-tank experts gathered October 22–24 at the Salamander Resort in Middleburg, Virginia, for the Henry A. Kissinger Center for Global Affairs’ annual retreat as part of the International Policy Scholars Consortium and Network (IPSCON) program. IPSCON is funded by the Carnegie Corporation of New York.

The retreat brought together a diverse mix of emerging and established voices in international affairs for a weekend of discussion, collaboration, and reflection on the state of policy-engaged scholarship. Designed both as a workshop and a forum for forward-thinking dialogue, the event encouraged participants to challenge conventional wisdom and identify overlooked questions shaping today’s global landscape.

A highlight of the retreat was the discussion chaired by Dr. Kori Schake on leading successful organizations. The session featured accomplished scholars and practitioners Dr. Kathleen Hicks, Dr. Alina Polyakova, Dr. Alexandra Toma, and Dr. Janice Stein. The group shared strategies for integrating academic insight into practical leadership in their respective institutions and highlighted the importance of exercising adaptability while maintaining a clear mission.

This discussion, and the many others throughout the retreat, supported the Kissinger Center’s ongoing mission to foster a network of thinkers capable of translating ideas into impact in an increasingly complex international environment.