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The University of North Texas launched its National Security and Economic Strategy Initiative in 2025 to help address increasingly complex challenges at the intersection of national security, economic competitiveness, and global supply chain resilience. The initiative brings together experts across sectors to conduct forward-looking research, inform policy, and foster innovation that strengthens both national defense and economic leadership.

The initiative is grounded in five strategic focus areas:

  • Defense capabilities
  • High-impact research and innovation
  • Trade and economic growth
  • Advanced technology development
  • Sound fiscal and governance policy

Through these pillars, the initiative supports the development of actionable solutions to pressing national and global challenges.

A Presidential Advisory Council, chaired by former Secretary of the Navy Gordon England, provides strategic oversight and guidance. Its leaders bring decades of experience in defense, government, industry, and public service.

The President’s Advisory Council is charged with sharing insights and expertise as the university builds its program and solidifies its expertise in these critical areas. Council members’ insights will be instrumental in helping UNT achieve the desired level of success in creating a program that sets UNT apart from other national security programs.

The program will be designed to feature three distinct parts – a curriculum for senior level students, lectures and seminars for executive education, and an annual one-day, invitation-only summit featuring distinguished expert panelists.

Council members include:

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Honorable Gordon England
Former Sec Nav, Deputy Secretary of Defense, 
Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security, and President of Lockheed Aeronautical Systems Company
 
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Darcy Anderson
Vice Chairman of Hillwood
 
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Admiral Michael Mullen
USN, Ret.
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General David H. Petraeus
USA, Ret.
 
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Brint Ryan
CEO of Ryan LLC
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The Honorable Sara Martinez Tucker
Former Undersecretary of Education

A Research and Policy Council, currently under formation, will be a hub for collaborative research and publication. Drawing on senior military officers, policymakers, academic scholars, and industry executives, the council will develop policy briefs, white papers, and journal articles that position UNT as a national thought leader in the security-economy nexus. Key research themes include domestic manufacturing, critical infrastructure, and U.S. supply chain resiliency. Together with the Presidential Advisory Council and an Executive Steering Group, these individuals shape the direction and impact of the initiative.

UNT intends to host marquee events featuring global experts and elevate the visibility of national security discourse in North Texas and beyond.

To advance workforce and leadership development, initiative leaders are planning a Certificate in National Security and Economic Strategy and Executive Education programs. Long-term plans include the creation of a dedicated degree pathway and enhanced research capacity to support federal and private sector partners.

As one of the fastest-growing Tier One research universities in the nation, UNT is committed to translating knowledge into impact. The National Security and Economic Strategy Initiative is central to this mission — aligning academic strength with national priorities and advancing the university’s role as a convener of ideas, innovation, and leadership.