Director Petraeus at the dedication.

In the keynote address at the recent dedication of George Mason University’s Founders Hall, CIA Director David H. Petraeus reflected on parallels between the public service missions of the intelligence and academic communities. Founders Hall, a bright, modern structure located in Arlington, Virginia, houses GMU’s School of Public Policy, School of Law, and School of Conflict Analysis and Resolution.

Director Petraeus told the audience of about 300 attendees: “Intellectual rigor, bold innovation, and healthy skepticism are central to our respective professions. Both communities seek to better understand the complex forces and trends that shape the world around us. And both strive to put what we learn to good use for our country and the world.”

Director Petraeus (C) with Ed Rhodes, Dean of the School of Public Policy (L) and GMU President Dr. Alan Merten at the dedication of Founders Hall on the Arlington, Virginia Campus of GMU.

He commended GMU for the relevance of its curricula to the security challenges facing the nation after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. “The hard work of comprehensive, civil-military campaigns has required the skills and expertise of intelligence officers, diplomats, law enforcement agents, development specialists, legal experts, and professionals from many other disciplines as well. . . And George Mason has contributed enormously, in the past decade in particular, to help prepare young men and women for dealing with the security challenges of our time.”

Other speakers at the March 8 dedication ceremony included GMU President Alan Merten; May Hynes, Chair of the Arlington County Board; Edward Rhodes, Dean of GMU’s School of Public Policy; and Jacquelyn Antonson, a student in GMU’s School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution.

Director Petraeus greets attendees. All photos by Alexis Glenn/Creative Services/George Mason University.

Following the formal ceremony, Director Petraeus greeted students and guests at a lively reception on the campus grounds.

A transcript of his remarks is available in Speeches & Testimony.