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Dear Colleagues, Students, and Friends,
Welcome to the autumn season! As the leaves begin to change and our campus comes alive with renewed energy, it is my pleasure to welcome each of you into a new season of growth, creativity and shared purpose.
I am delighted to introduce Debbie Mucarsel-Powell as our new Executive Director for the Graduate School of Political Management. With her passion for mission-driven leadership, extensive experience in institutional development, and unwavering commitment to inclusive excellence, Debbie joins us at a pivotal moment. Her insight and energy will help strengthen programs, deepen partnerships and ensure our community continues to thrive.
Please join me in giving Debbie a warm welcome. Over the coming weeks, she will be meeting many of you—faculty, staff, students, and alumni. I encourage you to share your ideas and aspirations with her as we look ahead together.
This past year has been one of important milestones, measurable progress, and renewed vision. I am pleased to announce that our 2025 Annual Report is now available. Inside, you’ll find highlights of what we have achieved together: groundbreaking research, student successes, community partnerships, and institutional initiatives that are shaping the future.
Three themes stood out to me in particular:
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Innovation across disciplines — faculty and students alike have pushed boundaries, tackling complex problems through creativity and collaboration.
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Community engagement — from local partnerships to public events and service programs, we continue to make meaningful inroads that extend our impact beyond campus.
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Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion — not just in words, but in action: in hiring, curricula, student support, and fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.
As we begin this new academic year, I feel confident in our direction and energized by the collective spirit you bring. The Annual Report is not just a reflection on the past—it is a guidepost for the future. Together, let’s build on what works, embrace innovation, and continue to chart bold new paths forward.
Additionally, we have a dynamic calendar of events upcoming this fall, offering new opportunities to learn, connect, and celebrate as a community. Here are just a few highlights to mark on your calendar.
Also, I encourage you to Follow us on our new “Life at CPS” Instagram page, specifically created for current students to learn about news & events while engaging with other students, faculty and staff. Follow us to stay up-to-date on activities and announcements throughout the semester!
Thank you for your dedication, passion, and spirit. I look forward to working alongside each of you in the months ahead as we make this next chapter our most impactful yet. Please join me in welcoming Debbie, celebrating our shared achievements in the 2025 Annual Report and fully engaging in the vibrant life of our community this fall.
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With gratitude and optimism, | |
Liesl Riddle, Ph.D.
Dean, College of Professional Studies
The George Washington University
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| Meet GSPM’s New Executive Director Debbie Mucarsel-Powell | |
GW's Graduate School of Political Management (GSPM) has appointed former U.S. Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell as its new executive director.
Mucarsel-Powell, a longtime public servant and higher education leader, has extensive experience tackling critical political and social issues throughout her career. Now, as the executive director of GSPM, she is excited to return to D.C. and help prepare the next generation of public servants and political professionals.
Read more
| | GW’s College of Professional Studies Joins Regional Partners to Launch “Talent Capital” for Displaced Federal Workers | | |
Check out Talent Capital, a first-of-its-kind workforce resource designed to support displaced federal workers—and any job seekers—across the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia. GW’s College of Professional Studies is proud to join the Metropolitan Washington Council of Government (MWCOG) and other regional leaders in building this workforce infrastructure— pairing AI-driven job matching with human-centered services.
Find out more about how we are contributing to the initiative with free executive coaching hours, discounts on professional development courses, tuition discounts on degree programs and free samplers and microcredentials in high-demand fields.
Read more
| | Congress Across the Aisle: A Conversation on Gerrymandering and Reform | |
On October 6, GW’s Jack Morton Auditorium buzzed with conversation as attendees gathered for “Congress Across the Aisle: A Conversation on Gerrymandering and Primary Reform,” co-sponsored by the GW Graduate School of Political Management (GSPM), Former Members of Congress (FMC) and Unite America.
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| | Advance Your Career in Cybersecurity and Homeland Security: Now Enrolling on GW RevU! | |
Advance your career with continuing education courses designed for today’s professionals in cybersecurity, homeland security, election security and more. Offerings are designed to provide upskilling and reskilling opportunities in a number of in-demand industries.
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GW CyberForge delivers industry-leading training and certifications—equipping cybersecurity professionals with the skills to thrive in today’s fastest-growing cyber occupations. Enroll by Oct. 31 in the Certified Information Security Manager course (CISM) by ISACA. Cohort group starts November 4.
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First Responders and Homeland Security professionals build critical skills to protect and serve with the CBRNE-WMD Credentials Program. It is a robust training series designed to prepare early and developing professionals for the complexities of a dynamic and evolving threat environment.
Start learning today. Explore courses at GW RevU!
| | CPS Students Explore Opportunities at GW Career Expo | |
“What an incredible day at GW’s Career Expo! I had the pleasure of meeting numerous talented students from George Washington University’s College of Professional Studies,” wrote Nicole Mintz, PCC, Director of Career Services, on LinkedIn.
The popular career exploration event provides an opportunity for students to meet face-to-face with potential employers offering internships and full-time jobs.
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| | Exploring South America’s Powerhouse: GSPM and CPS Students in Brazil | |
This summer, participants in the Brazil Residency, part of the Graduate School of Political Management’s (GSPM) Global Politics program, capped a four-week course on Brazil’s politics, policies and global influence with an immersive experience in the nation’s business center, São Paulo, and political capital, Brasília.
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| | Alumni Spotlight: GSPM Celebrates Latin Heritage Month | |
At the Graduate School of Political Management (GSPM), we celebrate our Hispanic and Latino alumni every day for the leadership, vision and dedication they bring to politics and our communities. This Latin Heritage Month, we’re proud to spotlight two of our alumni and share their stories.
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| | Announcing the 2025 Annual Roadmap Report | | | | |
This past year has been one of important milestones, measurable progress, and renewed vision. I am pleased to announce that our 2025 Annual Report is now available. Inside, you’ll find highlights of what we have achieved together: groundbreaking research, student successes, community partnerships and institutional initiatives that are shaping the future.
Read more
| | Follow Us: New "Life at CPS" Instagram Account | | | | |
What is the Life at CPS Instagram account? It is the ultimate guide for current College of Professional Studies (CPS) and Graduate School of Political Management (GSPM) students to find up-to-date information about student experiences, important deadlines and upcoming events.
Follow Us on the "Life at CPS" Instagram account
| | Using AI to Accelerate Permitting for Energy Generation Projects | | | | |
Dr. Sandra Whitehead shared a recent Medium post she wrote “Using AI to Accelerate Permitting for Energy Generation Projects.” According to Dr. Whitehead, “We know how to generate reliable, cleaner power. What slows us down isn’t the technology—it’s the process. Getting approvals for energy projects can take 5–10 years, and by then, the landscape of need and opportunity has already shifted. That raises a provocative question: could artificial intelligence help us break through the bottleneck?”
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| | UPCOMING STUDENT & COMMUNITY EVENTS | | |
GSPM Happy Hour on The Hill
Tuesday, October 28, 2025 | 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm | Distilled Spirits Council of DC
Cheers to New Connections at GSPM! Join us as we welcome Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, the new Executive Director of the Graduate School of Political Management (GSPM) - former Congresswoman and long time advocate for democracy and civic engagement.
This special happy hour brings together the GSPM community - including students, alumni, faculty, staff and friends - for an evening of conversation, connection, and celebration.
Thinking about graduate school or know someone who is? Bring a friend who may be considering a GSPM program, and you'll receive free access to GSPM's Election Security Credential (a $149 value)! This 10-hour, self-paced course provides the critical skills needed to safeguard the integrity of elections and culminates in a hands-on scenario that prepares participants to address real-world security challenges.
Whether you're exploring graduate school, building a career in politics or public affairs, or simply enjoy meaningful discussions, you'll find yourself right at home. Come raise a glass, meet new faces, and strengthen the network that makes GSPM stronger together.
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Executive Women's Leadership Program
October 15-17, 2025 | Online
A highly interactive three-day program designed for women in the private and public sectors who aspire to positions of greater influence, impact and leadership or have been identified as high-potential leaders in their organizations. Offered by the Center for Excellence in Public Leadership (CEPL).
Register by October 10 for 20% off tuition; Exclusive offer - GW alumni receive 20% off; groups of 5+ receive 20% off.
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Alumni & Families Weekend 2025
October 24-26, 2025 | Washington, DC (see detailed schedule)
Dean's Open House/Breakfast: Saturday, 10/25, 9:30 am - 11 am
The College of Professional Studies and Graduate School of Political Management invite you to join our open house! This gathering offers a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations with the college's leadership, faculty, staff, and fellow alumni! Learn about CPS and GSPM’s many exciting initiatives while enjoying a delicious breakfast bar. We look forward to seeing you there!
Best of GW Faculty Lectures on AI & Politics: Saturday, 10/25, 11 am
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The AI-Augmented Student: How Human-Centered AI Nurtures Lifelong Learning, featuring Jose Carlos Linares, CPS Board of Advisors. Explore the future of learning through the lens of the AI augmented student. Discover how human centered agentic tutors, purposeful prompt crafting, and responsible AI practices ignite curiosity, dissolve learning barriers, and reshape careers. We will navigate the ethical crossroads and managerial complexities of AI driven education, leaving alumni and families inspired with tomorrow’s essential skills.
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Speech, Power, and Leadership: Navigating Hard Conversations in Turbulent Times (Graduate School of Political Management). Join Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, Executive Director of GSPM, for a thought-provoking lecture exploring the complex relationship between communication, authority, and political leadership in an era marked by division and uncertainty.
The lecture will examine how leaders use rhetoric to shape public opinion, influence policy, and navigate the challenges of contentious dialogue. In a time when polarized debates often hinder constructive discourse, this lecture will provide insights into how effective communication can transcend ideological boundaries, foster understanding, and guide society through moments of crisis. Through her own journey in public life, Debbie has seen firsthand how words can either divide or bring people together. The true test of leadership, she argues, is finding the courage to speak with clarity in the midst of chaos. When we cut through the noise with conviction and purpose, we not only shape outcomes but also strengthen the bonds that hold a nation together.
Review the full weekend's schedule for much more!
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The Osimo Treaty: A Virtual Roundtable on Diplomacy and National Identity
November 10, 2025 | 5 pm - 6 pm | Online
Join us for a virtual roundtable marking the 50th anniversary of the Osimo Treaty – a Cold War milestone in peaceful resolution. Scholars from Italy and the U.S. will explore nationalism, diplomacy, and the legacy of contested borderlands. This event is co-sponsored by: The College of Professional Studies; The Institute for European, Russian, and Eurasian Studies (ESIA); The Department of Romance, German & Slavic Studies (CCAS).
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Enterprise Risk Management Certificate
December 8-12, 2025 | Online
GW’s Certificate Program in Enterprise Risk Management for Government (ERM) is designed to provide you and your organization with the fundamental concepts and processes, principles, tools and techniques of ERM in the context of organizational change. The 5-day program will not only help you develop your knowledge of the ERM process, procedures and skills, but also enable you to apply the coursework to a practical application relevant to your organization. This program is part of the Talent Capital initiative.
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One Humanity Lab Coaching Certification
January 7 - July 16, 2026 | Online
The One Humanity Leadership Coaching, an ICF Level 2 Accredited program, is based on the understanding that to lead powerfully, we have to first develop ourselves. We help you bring out the best in yourself, to bring out the best in others. Our program is a 7-month experiential journey that includes direct engagement with thought leaders, change-makers, and bridge-builders. Applications for the One Humanity Lab Coaching Certification are open until October 30. The next cohort begins in January 2026.
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GSPM faculty members are frequently contacted by leading media organizations for their insights on communication, economic, foreign policy and political matters, where their perspectives receive global attention. Our faculty are the experts that journalists turn to during breaking news!
Please visit the In the Media section of our website for many recent comments from our faculty, including Dr. Todd Belt, Dr. Casey Burgat, Dr. Matt Dallek and Lesley Lopez.
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