Notre Dame Washington Office and Notre Dame International Security Center host national security discussion for young professionals in DC
Last month, the University of Notre Dame’s Washington Office and the Notre Dame International Security Center (NDISC) co-hosted “National Security & Intelligence: Thriving in Times of Transition,” a professional development panel discussion and networking reception tailored to young professionals navigating Washington, DC’s rapidly evolving national security and intelligence landscape.
The event launched the Spring Networking Series, a multi-part initiative co-sponsored by NDISC, the Keough School of Global Affairs, the Notre Dame Alumni Association, the Office of Military & Veterans Affairs, and the Meruelo Family Center for Career Development. Hosted in Notre Dame’s Washington Office and livestreamed to students on Notre Dame’s campus, the evening offered participants a chance to engage with thought leaders and peers navigating a dynamic policy environment.
Moderated by Kat Heyser, Center Associate at NDISC, the discussion featured accomplished Notre Dame alumni representing a broad range of sectors and experience:
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Cutter Brenton (ND '10), Vice President, Defense Technology Group, Booz Allen Hamilton
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Caroline Chang (ND '15), Associate Partner, Albright Stonebridge Group; Former Deputy Assistant National Cyber Director, The White House
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Amy McAuliffe (ND '90), Former Assistant Director, CIA Weapons and Counterproliferation Mission Center
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Josh Zavilla (ND '11), Head of National Security, Palantir Technologies
Panelists reflected on the evolving national security landscape, shared insights from their professional journeys, and offered guidance on the skills and competencies aspiring national security professionals should cultivate. They emphasized the value of being both a specialist and a generalist at different points in a career, but underscored the importance of staying mission-focused throughout. Panelists also discussed the diverse career paths into national security across the public and private sectors — especially critical in times of large-scale transition and uncertainty — and highlighted the transferable skills gained from early roles in other fields.
Originally published by at washingtonoffice.nd.edu on May 28, 2025.
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