Advising and supporting national security and defense decision-makers
Policy & Strategy
Arizona State University is helping shape conversations on national security and defense through research, education and collaboration. Drawing on expertise from military practitioners, policy experts and faculty across disciplines, ASU advances dialogue and innovation on defense strategy, emerging technologies, great power competition and global security challenges. Through its growing presence in presence in Washington, D.C., partnerships across government, industry and academia, the university connects research and expertise with real-world security challenges and policy discussions.
ASU President Michael Crow: bridging the worlds of academia and defense
ASU President Michael M. Crow is a prominent figure in national security and defense policy circles dedicated to strengthening American leadership. As a globally recognized expert in science and technology policy, President Crow makes significant contributions to strategic decision-making around defense policy, technology and education. President Crow is a permanent member of the Council on Foreign Relations and has advised multiple federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of State, as well as national laboratories, colleges and universities, and think tanks working in defense. Since 2006, he has served as Chairman of the Board of In-Q-Tel, a venture capital firm that identifies and invests in cutting-edge technologies to support U.S. intelligence agencies, providing leadership and strategic guidance to bridge the gap between private sector development and applications in national security.
Responding to modern security challenges
Today's security environment extends beyond the battlefield. Strategic competition increasingly unfolds across economic, geopolitical, technological, and societal domains, requiring new approaches to understanding and addressing emerging challenges. Through research, education, partnerships and public engagement, ASU develops ideas, leaders and solutions that help shape the future of security and statecraft.
ASU’s McCain Institute: character-driven leadership for a free, safe and just world
Reflecting the legacy of Senator John McCain and his family's dedication to public service, the McCain Institute works to advance democracy, human dignity and security in America and around the world. The Institute works with local and national partners to turn ideas into action and impact across multiple areas, including democracy promotion, combating human trafficking, preventing hate-based violence, national security and counterterrorism and global leadership development. Through its annual Sedona Forum, the Institute convenes leaders from government, military, business and civil society to foster dialogue on pressing global challenges and develop practical solutions that honor Senator McCain's commitment to finding common ground and serving the greater good.
ASU also honors Senator McCain’s legacy through the McCain Library and Museum, which broke ground in Tempe in January 2026 and will serve as an enduring resource for scholars, students and the public.
Emerging domains of security and statecraft
Publications and thought leadership
ASU is home to two leading journals in security studies.