Eisenhower Institute

The U.S. Embassy in Muscat, Oman recognizes Eisenhower Institute expert Linda Funsch for Women’s History Month! Professor Funsch just led our students on an amazing 12-day study trip where we met with business and government leaders, and explored the cou try’s rich history and culture. Thank you for sharing your connections and many years of experience in Oman with our future leaders.

The Sultan Qaboos Cultural Center led by Dr. Majid Al Khalili, Executive Director, welcomed Gettysburg College students. Acting Chargé d’Affaires, Counselor Sabra Ahmed Al Hooti and Commercial Attaché, Ali Khadra at the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman to the United States of America briefed them on Omani-U.S. relations, Oman's economy, Omani culture, and Vision 2024.

With my own country's national leadership now vacating the field of climate change amelioration, it is more important than ever that state and local leaders across our democracies work together and press ahead on the important work of "greening" our world. How leaders can succeed at building locally-owned and operated green initiatives, regenerate communities and local economies, while overcoming the "greenlash" from climate-change deniers and ideologues who try to block this needed transformation-- was the text of our transatlantic discussion. Watch the event hosted by Jefferson Educational Society and read our just published article in the UK Journal of Urban Regeneration. https://lnkd.in/gu_JR97f Featuring United States' Matt Russell and Ben Speggen, Sweden's Lisa Pelling, and Germany's Bernd Mettenleiter & Sebastian Striegel with help from Ava Shapiro & Eisenhower Institute

After two semesters of rigorous study through the Eisenhower Institute’s Global Focus: Oasis in the Middle East, I finally had the opportunity to deepen my understanding of Oman’s diplomatic strategies, development vision, and global partnerships while engaging directly with policymakers and experts shaping the country’s future. Key Highlights of Meetings with esteemed politicians, scholars, policymakers, diplomats and institutions throughout the trip included : ?? H.E. Dr. Abdullah Al-Harrasi, Minister of Information – Discussed the nuances of political communication in the Gulf, the challenges of global media representation, and ways to foster more constructive international discourse. ?? H.H. Sayyida Dr. Mona Al Said, Vice Chancellor of Sultan Qaboos University – Provided a comprehensive overview of Oman’s higher education system, its investment in research and innovation, and its role in shaping a knowledge-based economy. ?? H.E. Khalifa Alharthy, Undersecretary for Political Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Offered valuable insights into Oman’s foreign policy approach as a neutral mediator in regional conflicts, emphasizing diplomacy, strategic dialogue, and recent engagements with the U.S. ?? U.S. Ambassador to Oman, The Honorable Ana Escrogima – Examined the evolving U.S.-Oman bilateral relationship, covering trade, security cooperation, and shared efforts in regional stability. ?? Abdulaziz Al Shidhani, Managing Director of Hydrom – Shared Oman’s bold strides in green hydrogen development, positioning itself as a leader in the Gulf’s transition to sustainable energy. ?? Dr. Manal Al Khanbashi, Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit – Discussed Oman’s long-term national development framework, focusing on economic diversification, sustainability, and social progress. ?? Al Amana Center – Explored Oman’s legacy of religious tolerance and interfaith dialogue, highlighting its role in fostering peaceful coexistence. Beyond these policy discussions, immersing in Oman’s rich cultural heritage—from navigating bustling souks to witnessing the breathtaking landscapes of the Hajar Mountains—was just as enlightening. This journey was a testament to the power of experiential learning in bridging academic knowledge with real-world applications. A heartfelt thank you to the Eisenhower Institute Tracie Potts, and Brigid Goss for making this program possible. I am especially grateful to Professor Linda Funsch for her mentorship and for guiding us through this extraordinary experience. This trip has reinforced my passion for international policy, sustainability, and diplomacy—and I look forward to continuing to explore these fields in the future. #Oman #PublicPolicy #GlobalAffairs #Sustainability #Diplomacy #EisenhowerInstitute #ExperientialLearning #MiddleEast

This past week, I had the wonderful opportunity to visit Oman through the Eisenhower Institute under the guidance of?Linda Funsch. During this visit, we explored Oman's foreign policy, politics, Vision 2040, history, culture, and diplomatic role in the Middle East. This experience was the culmination of over three months of intensive study about Oman and its significant role in global politics. We had the wonderful opportunity to meet various leaders in Oman's government, diplomacy and history. Key figures include: - Abdulaziz Al Shidhani, Managing Director of Hydrom – Showcased Oman's significant green hydrogen development initiatives, establishing itself as a pioneer in the Gulf's shift to sustainable energy. - Dr. Manal Al Khanbashi, Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit – Dr. Khanbashi presented Oman's Vision 2040, the long-term development plan focusing on sustainable environment, governance, economic diversification, and social development. - H.E. Dr. Abdullah Al-Harrasi, Minister of Information – Conversed about the complexities of global media representation, the subtleties of political communication in the Gulf, and strategies for promoting more positive international dialogue. - HH Sayyida Dr. Mona Al Said, Vice Chancellor of Sultan Qaboos University – Provided an influential overview of Oman’s higher education system, the legacy of education, and investment in research and innovation. Emphasizing the significant role of education in Oman's society. - H.E. Khalifa Alharthy, Undersecretary for Political Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs – provided key insights into Oman’s foreign policy stance as a neutral mediator in regional conflicts, highlighting its focus on diplomacy, strategic dialogue, and recent interactions with the U.S. - U.S. Ambassador to Oman, The Honorable Ana Escrogima – Discussed the evolving U.S.-Oman bilateral relationship,?including commerce, security cooperation, and joint initiatives to maintain regional stability. - Al Amana Center – Discussed the role of Oman in maintaining religious tolerance and interfaith dialogue. In addition, we learned about Oman's mission of preserving culture and history while focusing on modernization in education, government, and the economy. As a History and Africana Studies major, I was able to delve profoundly into Oman's historical legacy in the Middle East with influence in East Africa. I was able to conduct further research in Oman for my Africana Studies capstone, studying the contextual history of slavery in East Africa and Oman's role. I am so grateful to have undergone this transformational experience through the Eisenhower Institute with the direction of Linda Funsch and guidance from Tracie Potts and Brigid Goss. Through this opportunity of experimental learning, I have deepened my knowledge of foreign affairs, and diplomatic relations, especially regarding Oman and its role in the Middle East along with Oman's historical legacy.

“Preparing a pitch deck for a client or potential investor, and answering tough questions about whether your proposal is viable, is what successful entrepreneurs do every day,” said Eisenhower Institute Executive Director Tracie Potts. “Our students are doing this now, led and supported by business leaders like Skye [Lawrence] who help them build career skills that employers love. This kind of applied knowledge gives our students a competitive advantage in the workplace.” During the fall semester, Gettysburg College students in the Eisenhower Institute’s Building America program explored the impact of STEM innovation on economic development. Through expert mentorship, global case studies, and hands-on experiences, students developed skills, pitched innovative ideas to industry leaders, and explored entrepreneurship—gaining a competitive edge for career success. ?? Learn more: https://bit.ly/3EOkKb5

Andrew Luu '26, reflecting on his semester abroad supported by the Conrad N. Hilton scholarship, discusses the differences in STEM education between the United States and the United Kingdom. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/ecHja8cb

Connor Joyce '25 discusses the competition to innovate between the U.S. and China, arguing that new domains, such as space and the Arctic, will dramatically increase in importance through the 21st century. He argues that the nation needs to make rapid advancements in these sectors to remain competitive internationally. Read Connor's full article here: https://lnkd.in/egSnuDQN

This past week, I had the privilege of participating in the Gender and Leadership Study Trip with the Eisenhower Institute. The group met with professionals to discuss the impact of gender in the workplace, government, and beyond. At Chief Clubhouse, Beth K., Laura Bryce, Sarah Mugo, MBA, MSHRM, Christy Nelson, and Naomi Mercer shared their experiences as women in high-level business positions. Danielle Rosetti of Buchanan, Ingersoll, & Rooney taught us about gender differences throughout the hiring process and how to be the best candidates we can be. Susannah Wellford of RunningStart discussed the importance of empowering young women and girls to run for office across all levels of government. We met with Special Envoy Abby Finkenauer to learn about her work with global youth. Throughout the week, we visited the National Parent Teacher's Association, the United States Institute of Peace, the National Museum of Women in the Arts, and the United States Capitol to hear about the influence of gender on a local to global scale. At the trip's conclusion, participants reflected on their experience and the lessons that impacted them most. I shared the importance of finding your North Star for finding a career that is most fulfilling to you. This trip was incredibly informative and influential, and I am grateful for the experience! I am sure to use these lessons throughout my personal and professional careers. Our group for this week was so engaged and positive; I loved learning together. I want to thank Tracie Potts and Lizzie Dixon for their incredible planning and support; it would not have been possible without them!

This winter break, I had the incredible opportunity to take part in the Gender and Leadership Study Trip with the Eisenhower Institute. We spent time with inspiring professionals discussing the role of gender in leadership, business, and politics. At Chief Clubhouse, women in high-level roles like Beth K., Laura Bryce, Sarah Mugo, Christy Nelson, and Naomi Mercer shared their personal journeys. Danielle Rosetti from Buchanan, Ingersoll & Rooney gave us valuable insights into how gender influences the hiring process, and Susannah Wellford of RunningStart talked about empowering young women to run for office. We had the opportunity to speak with many more inspirational professionals on how to be an influential leader in today's world. It was an amazing opportunity where I learned so much, and I can't wait to apply this knowledge in my future endeavors. A huge thanks to Tracie Potts and Lizzie Dixon for their amazing support and planning it wouldn't have been possible without them!