spiadc@princetonedu
A NOTE FROM THE DEAN AND THE DIRECTOR
The Princeton SPIA DC Ce the Spring of 2023, the manifestation of one of th rect policy engagement. We are pleased to share t n the Center’s first three years far more than we could have imagined by and for our faculty, students, and alumni... and in pursuit of Princeton’s mission: “In the Nation’s Service and the Service of Humanity.”
Bridging Princeton and Washington, the Center has become a platform to elevate faculty research and connect our best minds to government and policy constituencies across the federal landscape It has enabled us to extend the student experience beyond the classroom, putting students face-to-face with policymakers and contemporary challenges in the making of both domestic and international policy And it has become a hub to convene and cultivate our alumni community in the nation’s capital, a large and growing community whose work best exemplifies public service
The Center has boosted the School’s national profile, hosting and convening more than 200 events and activities in this first phase, in partnership with 70 University centers, faculty, student and alumni groups, and partners Featured in the following pages are highlights of the wide range of public and private gatherings that have drawn thousands of visits from government officials, congressional offices, diplomats, academics, and representatives from think tanks, NGOs, professional associations, foundations, media, and industry
As the Center’s network grows, so too does the appetite from Princeton communities, partners, and policymakers to get involved We are delighted about what we have built together in a short time, a living embodiment of our public service mission, and excited about what is to come Thank you and see you soon at the Princeton SPIA DC Center
Amaney Jamal Zach Vertin
ELEVATING FACULTY RESEARCH
or hosted public and private events that have brought more than 100 University faculty and researchers to Washington. Through workshops, roundtables, brainstorming sessions, and public fora, faculty have connected with and presented research and ideas to practitioners and policy constituencies across the federal government, including the executive and legislative branches, think tanks, foundations, professional associations, universities, nongovernmental organizations, and the media
“The Princeton SPIA DC Center was an amazing platform for the launch of my new book Death by Design, which brought together a wide range of experts and audiences The event was a great success and a real highlight for me this academic year ”
– Sanyu Mojola Professor of Sociology and Public Affairs Princeton University
Select Events: Elevating Faculty Research
"Public Opinion in the Middle East & North Africa: Gaza, Regional Escalation, and Great Power Competition," March 31, 2026: Public opinion polling underpinned this event featuring SPIA Dean Amaney Jamal, Arab Barometer Director Michael Robbins, Director of the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research Khalil Shikaki, and Robert Malley, former special envoy for Iran and lecturer at the Yale Jackson School Interpreting the polling results, the panel of experts discussed social, political, and economic implications for the region as well as the evolving relationships between regional players and global powers
Program in Law & Public Policy (P*Law) Problem-Solving Workshops 2025-26: Professor Deborah Pearlstein and the P*Law Visiting Fellows established academics, legal practitioners, and policymakers have convened six workshops at the Center on topics ranging from “Polarization in Congress” to “Artificial Intelligence and Civil Rights Policy” to “Preserving the Independence of the Legal Profession” Each workshop brought lawyers, experts, and government officials from across the ideological spectrum around a common table with an eye to concrete solutions
Books & Cocktails Series: Death by Design, December 17, 2025: Sanyu Mojola, professor of sociology and public affairs, and Eugene Robinson, a columnist and MS NOW political analyst, discussed Mojola’s new book, Death by Design. The conversation examined Washington residents’ historical, current, and projected health outcomes; why the city has the nation’s largest racial life expectancy gap; and why it has been disproportionately impacted by public-health crises, including maternal and infant mortality, homicide, and HIV/AIDS.
“Second Chances Under the Second Trump Administration,” April 3, 2025: Co-convened by SPIA’s Policy Advocacy Clinic, the Princeton SPIA DC Center, and justice advocacy group For the People, this bipartisan dialogue focused on the future of criminal justice reform and public safety Speakers included US Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins, Hillary Blount, Executive Director of For the People, Heather Rice-Minus, President of the Prison Fellowship, Ana Zamora, CEO of the Just Trust, and Udi Ofer, Visiting Professor and Lecturer of Public and International Affairs
“Globalization, the U.S. Economy, Political Backlash,” February 29, 2024: This event, convened in partnership with the Peterson Institute for International Economics (PIIE) and the Niehaus Center for Globalization and Governance, was moderated by Lazard CEO and former White Office of Management and Budget Director Peter Orszag PIIE Fellow Cullen Hendrix and SPIA Professor Helen Milner offered analysis of the economic drivers of changing domestic and global politics
SPIA Professor Julian Zelizer speaks with journalists covering congressional affairs at the “Congress and History” Conference in May 2024. This interdisciplinary gathering, co-organized by Professors Zelizer, Nolan McCarty, and Frances Lee, united historians, congressional practitioners, and political scientists for a deep dive into the history of congressional politics and how it has shaped contemporary debates.
Elevating
Faculty Research
SPIA Professor Aaron Friedberg speaks about technology, industrial policy, and competition with China during the “U.S.Japan Forum,” convened by SPIA Professor John Ikenberry, the Japan Economic Foundation, and the Princeton SPIA DC Center in October 2025.
The Center has proven to be a popular convening space for alumni networking and engagement opportunities and a wide range of professional and career development activities for Princeton and SPIA alumni From alumni socials to class reunions and public service-focused programming, the Princeton SPIA DC Center has hosted over 50 alumnifocused events.
“I want to express how much I enjoyed the Salon Dinner series at the Princeton SPIA DC Center I played host to one such debate around climate and clean energy politics around the world, which brought together 18 alumni representing forty years of SPIA’s legacy and experience in federal, state, and local government, as well as industry and philanthropy It was a riveting two hours of conversation and a great networking opportunity In unsettled times like these, the DC Center is an invaluable asset that draws the incredible alumni network closer together”
– Harrison Godfrey, MPA *13
Select Events: Cultivating Alumni Community
Alumni Social Series: These semiannual rooftop receptions, which foster networking and connections between Washington-area and visiting SPIA alumni, have welcomed more than 1,500 alumni and guests to the Center Featured guests have included Princeton University President Christopher Eisgruber, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark Milley, and SPIA Dean Amaney Jamal as well as her predecessors
Salon Dinner Series: Modeled on the longstanding “Prospect House dinners” on campus, the Center has planned more than a dozen salon dinners in partnership with student and alumni curators Each salon brings 16 participants around one table to discuss a current public policy challenge Nearly 200 SPIA alumni have participated in salons on topics such as “The Future of the UN Security Council”; “US Regulatory Policy and Its Impact on Income Inequality”; “Federal Cuts and the Future of Public Institutions”; “Federal Agencies and the Supreme Court”; and “Abundance Agenda: Building Prosperity or Deepening Inequality?”
Career Compass Series: A second alumni-initiated series responded to growing interest in advanced career networking and professional mentorship. Beginning in 2024, an alumni committee coorganized the two pilot events one on navigating career pivots and a second on professional marketing and branding.
Public Service Series: In early 2025, alumni also expressed interest in community discussions to take stock of the rapidly changing public service landscape. A first gathering reflected on major cuts to public institutions and ways to bolster public service mandates and public support, in line with the University’s mandate “Princeton in the Nation’s Service” A second gathering featured SPIA Professor Deborah Pearlstein, who discussed a range of contemporary constitutional questions, including the administration’s efforts to assert greater executive power
Future of Foreign Aid Workshop Series: Conceived by the Princeton SPIA DC Center, this series brought together alumni, policymakers, practitioners, and students to examine the changing landscape of US foreign assistance Convened in the wake of unprecedented cuts to the federal government and the closure of the US Agency for International Development, participants in the three spring 2025 workshops discussed the implications for global development policy as well as the role of foreign aid in advancing US interests and international stability The series featured former senior officials from Republican and Democratic administrations, along with SPIA alumni and graduate students working across international development and related policy fields
Zach Vertin, inaugural director of the Princeton SPIA DC Center, with alumni attendees at the first rooftop Alumni Social in November 2023.
Discussion during an Alumni Salon Dinner in February 2026.
Cultivating Alumni Community
EXTENDING THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE
More than 1,400 students have participated in activities at the Center, including classes, policy workshops, career training, and “policy days,” as well as boutique workshops and other activities convened in partnership with SPIA faculty, centers, and policymakers in Washington. These student initiatives have included site visits to institutions across Washington, such as the White House, Congress, federal agencies, foreign tutions, media nd NGOs
“I have accepted an offer to join the Department of Energy, where I will focus on cyber infrastructure and the security of emerging AI technologies This opportunity resulted directly from a connection I made at an ‘AI Dialogues’ event at the Princeton SPIA DC Center Engaging with the participating experts provided an opportunity for mentorship and helped secure a position of this caliber”
– Sujay Swain, MPA *29
Select Events: Extending the Student Experience
Undergraduate Policy Day in Washington Series: This semiannual event brings Princeton undergraduates to Washington, D.C., for immersive engagement with policymakers, alumni, and practitioners working across public service, international affairs, and policy. The program introduces students to a wide range of career paths through panels, site visits, and candid conversations with leaders in government, media, nonprofits, and the private sector. Students have explored pressing domestic and global policy challenges while building connections with Princeton’s extensive policy community in Washington.
Class Visit: “Policy Writing for Decision Makers” – Briefing Day in Washington, April 30, 2026: Thirteen graduate students spent their final class day in Washington to present their policy memoranda Each student had the opportunity to brief a “Senior Principal” on their final memorandum; the role-play exercise included a former Cabinet Secretary, an Assistant Secretary of State, and a Special Assistant to the President each of whom asked questions, challenged the students with counterarguments, and offered feedback The students capped off the day with a visit to NPR Headquarters, where they had a chance to engage political and investigative reporters and observe a recording for All Things Considered
Inaugural “MPP Day in Washington,” March 20, 2026: The Princeton SPIA DC Center organized the inaugural MPP Day in Washington, a new initiative that offered the MPP class a chance to debate policy issues and discuss career paths with policymakers and alumni in Washington including senior officials from the Rockefeller Foundation, New America, Development Finance Corporation, USAID, World Bank, National Security Council, Departments of State and Defense, Carnegie Endowment, Mercy Corps, and more. The group also attended the Spring Alumni Social. One MPP student noted the day was “the most valuable programming SPIA has organized to assist in our career transition”; another deemed it “the best experience of the MPP year.”
SPIA Policy Workshop “Economic Diversification in Saudi Arabia,” September 27, 2024: SPIA Professor Nicholas Lotito invited a range of Gulf experts to offer insights on the history and future of the U.S.-Saudi relationship ahead of his class’ mid-October trip to Riyadh. Discussion topics included energy transition, regional security, foreign direct investment, technological innovation, and cultural diplomacy. Participants also discussed Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and its implications for U.S. policy.
Students meeting at the White House with senior officials and SPIA alumni from the National Security Council and Domestic Policy Council as part of “Undergraduate Policy Day in Washington” in September 2024.
Alumni from federal government agencies and think tanks speak to students as part of the inaugural “MPP Day in Washington” in March 2026.
Extending
the Student Experience
BUILDING NATIONAL PROFILE
Princeton University constituencies have made increasing use of the space and opportunities at the Princeton SPIA DC Center These activities have included high-profile events featuring award-winning journalists, advancing policy initiatives on Capitol Hill, and building an institutional relationship with diplomatic leaders
"Moderating the conversation with Andrew Ross Sorkin on his book 1929: Inside the Greatest Crash in Wall Street History was a delight. Sharing the stage with Sorkin and Professor Harold James brought history vividly to life. It is incredibly exciting to collaborate with a Center that consistently convenes thought-provoking conversations... the exceptional audience, distinguished faculty, engaged alumni, and students underscored Princeton’s position at the forefront of national conversation"
– Pallavi Gogoi Chief Business Editor, NPR
Select Events: Building National Profile
Books & Cocktails: 1929 with Andrew Ross Sorkin & Harold James, May 7, 2026: The Princeton SPIA DC Center convened a conversation between The New York Times’ Andrew Ross Sorkin and Princeton University Professor and economic historian Harold James. The pair discussed Sorkin’s acclaimed new book, 1929: Inside the Greatest Crash in Wall Street History and How It Shattered a Nation, in a conversation moderated by award-winning NPR journalist Pallavi Gogoi. More than 230 guests registered within 24 hours, including 136 first-time visitors. Media outlets represented included The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Reuters, NPR, POLITICO, Bloomberg, and the Associated Press, as well as senior staff from Congress and federal agencies
Books & Cocktails: At the Edge of Empire with Edward Wong, June 9, 2025: The Princeton SPIA DC Center hosted an evening with New York Times journalist Edward Wong to discuss his acclaimed book At the Edge of Empire: A Family’s Reckoning with China In conversation with award-winning NPR journalist Rund Abdelfatah, Wong explored the deeply personal and political threads woven through his family’s story and China’s evolving role on the global stage Their discussion also examined US foreign policy and the changing relationship between Washington and Beijing
Princeton AI Dialogues Series: AI Snake Oil, May 6, 2025: Princeton Professor and CITP Director Arvind Narayanan and PhD candidate and co-author Sayash Kapoor joined former BBC journalist Razia Iqbal to discuss their new book, AI Snake Oil, as well as the history of artificial intelligence, commonly used AI tools and applications, and AI’s limitations
Diplomatic Dinner Series: Beginning in early 2024, the Princeton SPIA DC Center’s Diplomatic Dinner Series convened ambassadors and senior diplomats from Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Latin America, and the Asia-Pacific region for a series of candid conversations with Princeton faculty and students. The discussions confronted major geopolitical trends from transatlantic suport for Ukraine to democratic backsliding in Latin America and introduced diplomats to the School of Public and International Affairs and the SPIA DC Center, creating a range of opportunities for University dialogue with foreign governments and facilitating student programming abroad.
Building National Profile
National Public Radio’s Rund Abdelfatah ‘13 interviews
New York Times correspondent and former Ferris journalism professor Edward Wong in June 2025.
CNBC host Andrew Ross Sorkin discusses his new book 1929: Inside the Greatest Crash in Wall Street History—and How It Shattered a Nation with Professor Harold James and Pallavi Gogoi, Chief Business Editor for National Public Radio in May 2026.
SPOTLIGHT: “THE PRINCETON AI DIALOGUES”
The “Princeton AI Dialogues” initiative is a new collaboration between the SPIA DC Center and the Center for Information Technology Policy (CITP), designed to bring cutting-edge University research and ideas on AI innovation and governance to federal policymakers.
Drawing on experts from SPIA, CITP, Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Psychology, the initiative has included a range of public events, roundtables for federal officials, congressional briefings, and workshops.
”This collaboration with the Princeton SPIA DC Center is establishing a platform on which we can inform and guide national policymakers on the questions central to the national conversation on AI from safety and national security to workforce and societal impacts"
– Arvind Narayanan Director, CITP Princeton University
Event Series: “The Princeton AI Dialogues”
Princeton AI Policy Precepts: Each fall and spring Precepts cohort convenes twice, with each session featuring a distinct group of panelists and a case study focused on a different AI policy challenge. Through these boutique roundtables for federal officials, Princeton experts have shared their research on AI agents, information integrity, data governance, wearable devices, and AI’s effects on labor. Participants have included senior personnel and AI advisors from 40 federal agencies and 15 congressional offices.
U.S. Senate and House Briefings: The “Princeton AI Dialogues” initiative has held six congressional briefings and expert panels on AI regulation, AI and the workforce, and AI’s societal risks, featuring experts from SPIA, CITP, and the New Jersey AI Hub The two most recent briefings were “AI Companions: Emerging Risks to Mental Health and Online Safety” in December 2025 and “AI and the Workforce: Are Jobs Being Replaced or Redesigned?” in April 2026
Federal Chief AI Officer Dinners: Chief AI Officers lead initiatives related to digital transformation, innovation, and cybersecurity across federal departments and agencies The Princeton SPIA DC Center has hosted intimate discussions with these federal AI leaders, generating important insights into emerging challenges in AI implementation and governance
Washington AI+ Expo Workshop: To highlight Princeton’s cutting-edge research in AI, augmented and virtual reality, robotics, and human-computer interaction, the Princeton SPIA DC Center hosted a Princeton AI Dialogues workshop, “When Robots Disappear: Reimagining Human-Robot Interaction in Virtual & Augmented Reality” at Washington’s premier AI policy conference the Special Competitive Studies Project’s AI+ Expo in May 2026.
AI in Washington Briefs: The Princeton AI Dialogues issues newsletters twice a month for Princeton’s growing AI research community, highlighting legislative and policy developments regarding AI innovation and governance, as well as opportunities to comment on federal policy proposals.
PRINCETON UNIVERSITY
@ PRINCETON SPIA DC CENTER
The Princeton SPIA DC Center has also hosted more than 60 Princeton University events, serving as a resource for student groups, classes, faculty, centers, programs, alumni organizations, and other constituents beyond the School of Public and International Affairs These events have ranged from academic programs and career panels to alumni gatherings, student visits, receptions, and public conversations.
“The Princeton in Washington (PIW) program has benefited greatly from its partnership with the Princeton SPIA DC Center. In addition to providing a home for our PIW student coordinator, the partnership has enabled us to host most of our Washington events at the Princeton SPIA DC Center, which has been especially conducive to student and alumni connections and engagement”
– Meg Rooney Associate Director of Alumni Engagement & Experiential Learning Princeton
University
Select Events: Princeton University @ Princeton SPIA DC Center
Terms of Respect with Princeton President Christopher Eisgruber, October 28, 2025: Eisgruberjoined NPR host Ayesha Rascoe for a conversation on his new book,Terms of Respect, and the national conversation on free speech, higher education, and constructive disagreement in a democratic society Drawing on his experience as a constitutional scholar and as Princeton’s president, Eisgruber discussed how universities can protect free expression, foster inclusive communities, and model productive civic discourse in a polarized era
Princeton Model Congress Series: The Princeton Model Congress program in Washington, DC brings high school students from across the country together annually for immersive, hands-on engagement with public policy, government, and leadership Through congressional simulations, policy debates, and interactions with practitioners and alumni, students gain insight into the policymaking process and the challenges facing national and global leaders In 2024 and 2025, the SPIA DC Center supported the program by convening participants for community-building opportunities in the nation’s capital
The Whig-Cliosophic Society: Careers in Government Series: The Princeton SPIA DC Center hosted the Whig-Cliosophic Society, Princeton’s political, literary, and debating society, in April 2025 and April 2026 for a “Careers in Government Day.” Whig-Clio is the oldest collegiate literary and debating society in the United States, founded by students including James Madison and Aaron Burr. Whig-Clio hosts Senate Debates, events with prominent speakers, social events, and more.
Princeton-in-Washington Series: This series convenes Princeton alumni, faculty, and students in Washington, D.C. for timely conversations with leaders in government, media, business, and civil society on major policy challenges and public affairs The Princeton SPIA DC Center has hosted 14–16 of these events each year since 2024 Through panel discussions, lectures, and networking events, the series creates opportunities for the Princeton community to engage directly with influential policymakers and practitioners Programming spans a wide range of domestic and international issues while highlighting Princeton scholarship and leadership in public service
Princeton Varsity Club On the Road, October 12, 2023: The Princeton SPIA DC Center welcomed Princeton Varsity Club to Washington for an evening with Princeton Athletics The event featured a reception, panel conversation, and Q&A with Ford Family Director of Athletics John Mack ’00 and Ivy League champion head coaches Mitch Henderson ’98 of men’s basketball and Lisa Van Ackeren of softball, connecting alumni and friends with leaders shaping Princeton’s student-athlete experience
Princeton University students with Congresswoman Terri Sewell '86 in June 2026.
Princeton University @ Princeton SPIA DC Center
A recipient of the “Princeton Prize in Race Relations” at the annual prize reception in March 2026.
BY THE NUMBERS
Between its opening in May 2023 and May 2026, the Princeton SPIA DC Center convened and/or hosted 216 events and activities with 70 unique partners
Events by Category (May 2023 – May 2026)
FacultyandCenters
SPIA and Princeton University Events (May 2023 – May 2026)
PRINCETON SPIA DC CENTER PARTNERS
Afghanistan Policy Lab (APL)
Africa Policy Network
American Academy for Strategic Education
Arab Barometer
Association of Jewish Princeton Alumni (AJPA)
Center for Information Technology Policy (CITP)
Center for International Security Studies (CISS)
Center for Policy Research on vironment (CPREE)
Center for the Study of Democratic Politics (CSDP)
Congressional Addiction Treatment and Recovery Caucus
Criminal Justice @ SPIA Dream.org
Drug Policy Alliance
Emory University
Empirical Studies of Conflict (ESOC)
Eviction Lab at Princeton University
For the People
Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace & Security
High Meadows Environmental Institute (HMEI)
Ivy League Veterans Alumni
Ivy Social Club of DC
John H Pace Jr ’39 Center for Civic Engagement
Joint Degree Program in Social Policy
Julis-Rabinowitz Center for Public Policy & Finance (JRCPPF)
Liechtenstein Institute on Self-Determination (LISD)
The Niehaus Center for Globalization and Governance
NYU Center for Social Media / Politics
NYU John Brademas Center
Office of the Dean for Research
Peterson Institute for International Economics
Policy Advocacy Clinic
Princeton in Africa
Princeton Alumni Schools Committee (PASC)
Princeton AlumniCorps
Princeton Bridging Divides Initiative (BDI)
Princeton Class of '86
Princeton Club of Washington (PCW)
Princeton Department of Sociology
Princeton Department of Economics
Princeton Department of Computer Science
Princeton Model Congress
Princeton Office of Government Affairs
Princeton Prize in Race Relations (PPRR)
Princeton Sovereign Finance Lab (PSFL)
Princeton SPIA Program on Science and Global Security (SGS)
Princeton University Admissions
Princeton University Annual Giving
Princeton University Office of the President
Princeton Varsity Club
Princeton Veterans Alumni Association (PVETS)
Princeton-in-Washington (PIW) Program in History and Practice of Diplomacy
Program in Law & Public Policy (P*Law)
Public Policy and International Affairs (PPIA)
R Street Institute
Scholars in the Nation’s Service (SINSI)
Special Competitive Studies Project
SPIA Alumni Relations Office
SPIA Graduate Career Development (GCD)
SPIA Policy Workshops
SPIA Undergraduate Program Office (UPO)
State Health and Value Strategies (SPIA/CHW)
SPIA in NJ
Sustainability at Princeton
The Carter Center
The Whig-Cliosophic Society
University of Michigan
Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars
World Resources Institute
EVENTS 2025-26
PRINCETON SPIA DC CENTER
The Princeton SPIA DC Center convened and/or hosted 216 events from its opening in May 2023 to May 2026 These included 68 events by and for Princeton University constituencies (in orange)
Princeton Prize in Race Relations Awards Ceremony, Princeton Prize in Race Relations, 512025
P*Law Problem-Solving Workshop: “Polarization in Congress,” Program in Law & Public Policy, 552025
Princeton AI Dialogues Book Event: AI Snake Oil with Arvind Narayanan and Sayash Kapoor, Center for Information Technology Policy, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 562025
“Future of Foreign Aid”—Workshop Series (Part III), Princeton SPIA DC Center and Development Economics Faculty, 562025
SGS Physicists Coalition: Early Career Professionals Event on Nuclear Arms Control, Princeton SPIA Program on Science and Global Security, 5202025
Princeton-in-Washington Summer Kickoff, Princeton-in-Washington, 662025
Books & Cocktails: At the Edge of Empire with Edward Wong and Rund Abdelfatah, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 692025
“Reporting on Subcultures: The CIA, Virginia Military Institute, and the Anglican Church with Ian Shapira '00,” Princeton-in-Washington, 692025
SPIA Summer Interns in Washington Lunch, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 6102025
“Peacebuilding in Uncertain Times: A Conversation with Kristen Wall '00,” Princeton-in-Washington, 6.12.2025.
“Finding Your Path: A Conversation with Kathryn Hamm '91,” Princeton-in-Washington, 6172025
“Politics, Communication and Media: Alumni Panel Discussion,” Princeton-in-Washington, 6182025
“A Conversation with Lisa Brown '82 and Chris Lu '88,” Princeton-in-Washington, 6202025
“War and International Law: Contemporary Issues – A Conversation with Laurie Blank ‘93,” Princetonin-Washington, 6.23.2025.
SINSI Summer Reception, Scholars in the Nation’s Service, 6262025
“A Conversation with Pyper Davis '87,” Princetonin-Washington, 712025
P*Law Problem-Solving Workshop: "Preserving the Independence of the Legal Profession," Program in Law & Public Policy, 7.14.2025.
“An Evening with ESPN Investigative Reporter Tisha Thompson ‘99,” Princeton-in-Washington, 7162025
Princeton Club of Washington Annual Meeting, Princeton Club of Washington, 7172025
“Advocating for Public Health, a conversation with Robert Falk '85,” Princeton-in-Washington, 7.18.2025.
“A Conversation with Aubrey Paris *19,” Princetonin-Washington, 7212025
“A Conversation with Larry Handerhan *12 and Jennifer Cannistra '01,” Princeton-in-Washington, 7222025
“Covering Washington and the World: An Evening with Brian Rokus '99 & Dugald McConnell '93,” Princeton-in-Washington, 7.23.2025.
Public Service Salon Series: “Federal Cuts and the Future of Public Institutions,” Princeton SPIA DC Center, 7242025
Coffee Chats: SPIA Graduate Alumni & Students, SPIA Graduate Career Development, 7252025
EVENTS 2025-26
PRINCETON SPIA DC CENTER
“A Conversation with Retired Army General and Former Head of the CIA, David Petraeus *85 *87,” Princeton-in-Washington, 7252025
“The Supreme Court in 2024: A Conversation with Ilya Shapiro '99 after Another Big Term,” Princeton-in-Washington, 7.28.2025.
“A Conversation with former U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer '96,” Princeton-in-Washington, 7302025
Public Service Salon Series: “What is the Future of American Diplomatic Soft Power?,” Princeton SPIA DC Center, 8142025
"Nonviolent Resistance and Pathways to Peace in Afghanistan," Afghanistan Policy Lab, 8.21.2025.
Alumni Advisory Group Quarterly Meeting & Lunch, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 8262025
Public Service Salon Series: “After the One Big Beautiful Bill Act: What’s Next for Economic Justice?,” Princeton SPIA DC Center, 9.9.2025.
Book Launch: We Are Eating the Earth with Michael Grunwald & Tim Searchinger, Center for Policy Research on Energy and the Environment, World Resources Institute, 9112025
Book Launch: American Contradiction: Revolution and Revenge from the 1960s to Now with Paul Starr, Department of Sociology, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 9112025
Public Service Series: Gathering of SPIA PMF community, SPIA Graduate Career Development, SPIA Alumni Relations Office, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 9242025
Ivy Social Club of DC Reception, Ivy Social Club of DC, 9.25.2025.
”Undergraduate Policy Day in Washington”, SPIA Undergraduate Program Office, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 9262025
U.S.-Japan Forum, Center for International Security Studies, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 10.3.2025.
Empirical Studies of Conflict Annual Meeting, Empirical Studies of Conflict, 1082025
Diplomatic Dinner Series: Africa, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 10.8.2025 - 10.10.2025.
“DebtCon8”: The 8th Sovereign Debt Research and Management Conference, Princeton Sovereign Finance Lab, 10132025
“Princeton AI Dialogues: AI Policy Precepts, ” Center for Information Technology Policy, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 10.21.2025.
Fall Alumni Social, SPIA Alumni Relations Office, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 10222025
Book Launch: Terms of Respect with President Christopher Eisgruber and Ayesha Rascoe, Princeton SPIA DC Center, Princeton University Office of the President, 10282025
Class SPIA 562b: “Economic Analysis of Development” Class Day in Washington, SPIA Class, 11.4.2025.
“Princeton AI Dialogues: AI Policy Precepts, ” Center for Information Technology Policy, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 11142025
Graduate Career Development DC Day, SPIA Graduate Career Development, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 11212025
Washington Dialogue with Princeton Model Congress, Princeton Model Congress, 11.21.2025.
Public Service Salon Series: “Abundance Agenda: Building Prosperity or Deepening Inequality?,” Princeton SPIA DC Center, 1242025
“Evaluating International Cyberspace Policy Workshop,” SPIA Policy Workshop, 1252025
Public Service Salon Series: “The Future of American Elections,” Princeton SPIA DC Center, 12.9.2025.
Public Service Salon Series: “Understanding the American Public in Challenging Times,” Princeton SPIA DC Center, 12112025
EVENTS 2025-26
PRINCETON SPIA DC CENTER
Princeton AI Dialogues—U.S. Senate & House of Representatives: Expert Briefings, Center for Information Technology Policy, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 12.15.2025.
Book Launch: Death By Design with Professor Sanyu Mojola and Eugene Robinson, Princeton Department of Sociology, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 12172025
Dean's Lunch with Think Tank Leaders, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 192026
Princeton Club of Washington Arts Reception, Princeton Club of Washington, 1.22.2026.
Public Service Salon Series: “Whither the Climate Crisis?,” Princeton SPIA DC Center, 242026
LISD Networking Day & Reception, Liechtenstein Institute on Self-Determination, 2.19.2026.
Class_SPIA 593p “U.S.-China Relations,” Strategists Day in Washington, SPIA Class, 2202026
Public Service Salon Series: “Future of U.S. Foreign Assistance,” Princeton SPIA DC Center, 2242026
“Undergraduate Policy Day in Washington, SPIA Undergraduate Program Office, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 2272026
Tracking State Capacity Project Meeting, Empirical Studies of Conflict, 3102026
Princeton Prize in Race Relations, Princeton Prize in Race Relations, 3132026
Inaugural MPP Day in Washington, SPIA Graduate Program Office, Graduate Career Development, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 3202026
Spring Alumni Social, Alumni Affairs, 3.20.2026.
Public Service Salon Series: “Federal Agencies in Peril at the Supreme Court?,” Princeton SPIA DC Center, 3252026
CISS DC Policy Trip, Center for International Security Studies, 3272026
“Public Opinion, the Gaza War, and Great Power Influence in the Middle East & North AfricaNew Public Opinion Polling from Arab Barometer,” Princeton SPIA DC Center, Arab Barometer, 3.31.2026.
“Princeton AI Dialogues: AI Policy Precepts, ” Center for Information Technology Policy, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 4102026
“A Conversation with former U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer '96,” Princeton Club of Washington, 4142026
Politics of Sovereign Finance Conference, Princeton Sovereign Finance Lab, 4.15.20264.16.2026.
Princeton Class of '86 40th Reunion, Class of '86, 4172026
Julis-Rabinowitz Center for Public Policy & Finance Conference, Julis-Rabinowitz Center for Public Policy & Finance, 4172026
New Admit Reception, Princeton University Admissions, 4.23.2026.
Princeton AI Dialogues Congressional Briefings: “AI and the Workforce: Are Jobs Being Replaced or Redesigned?,” Center for Information Technology Policy, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 4202026
Transatlantic Conference, Liechtenstein Institute on Self-Determination, 4232026 - 4242026
Careers in Government Day, The Whig-Cliosophic Society, 4272026
AlumniCorps 35th Anniversary Reception, AlumniCorps, 4282026
Class SPIA 593v: Policy Writing for Decision Makers – Briefing Principals: Class Day in Washington, SPIA Class, 4.30.2026.
“Princeton AI Dialogues: AI Policy Precepts,” Center for Information Technology Policy, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 5.1.2026.
EVENTS 2025-26 PRINCETON SPIA DC CENTER
Books & Cocktails: 1929 with Andrew Ross Sorkin, Harold James, and Pallavi Gogoi, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 5.7.2026.
AI+ Expo Workshop “When Robots Disappear: Reimagining Human-Robot Interaction in Virtual & Augmented Reality,” Special Competitive Studies Project, 572026 - 592026
Spring 2026 Film Screening & Discussion, Princeton Club of Washington, 582026
"An Evening of Connection and Conversation," Princeton in Africa, 5.12.2026.
Princeton Workshop on Organized Crime Research and Policy, Criminal Justice @ SPIA, 5142026
P*Law Problem-Solving Workshop: “AI and Civil Rights Policy,” Program in Law & Public Policy, 5152026
Blueprint Workshop: "Towards a National-Scale AI Collaboration in High-Energy Physics," Office of the Dean for Research, 5.18.2026 - 5.19.2026.
Association of Jewish Princeton Alumni DC Chapter Launch, Association of Jewish Princeton Alumni DC Chapter, 5.27.2026.
P*Law Problem-Solving Workshop: “Preserving a Federal Civil Service,” Program in Law & Public Policy, 5282026
EVENTS 2024-25
PRINCETON SPIA DC CENTER
North America Launch of The World Nuclear Industry Status Report 2023, Center for Policy Research on Energy and the Environment, 522024
Princeton Prize in Race Relations Committee Award Ceremony, Princeton Prize in Race Relations DC Chapter, 5.9.2024.
Congress and History Conference, Center for the Study of Democratic Politics, 5162024 - 5172024
“Princeton AI Dialogues: AI Policy Precepts, ” Center for Information Technology Policy, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 5172024
P*Law Problem-Solving Workshop: "The Ethics of Government Lawyering in a Polarized Age,” Program in Law & Public Policy, 5.20.2024.
“Books & Cocktails: A conversation with Carlos Lozada and Katie Rogers, ” Princeton SPIA DC Center, 5222024
Princeton-in-Washington Summer Kickoff, Princeton-in-Washington, 672024
“International Law and the Conflict in Ukraine: Aggression, War Crimes and International Peace & Security: A Conversation with Laurie Blank ‘93,” Princeton-in-Washington, 6.11.2024.
“A Conversation about Tech Policy with Nandi Leslie ’02,” Princeton-in-Washington, 6122024
“Politics, Communication and Media: An Alumni Panel Discussion,” Princeton-in-Washington, 6132024
“A Conversation with Retired Army General and Former Head of the CIA, General Petraeus *85, *87,” Princeton-in-Washington, 6142024
SPIA Summer Interns Washington Orientation, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 6172024
“Global Challenges 2024, A Conversation with General Mark A. Milley ’80," Princeton SPIA DC Center, 6202024
Siegel Public Interest Tech Summer Fellows Meeting, Center for Information Technology Policy, 6.21.2024.
“Princeton AI Dialogues: AI Policy Precepts, ” Center for Information Technology Policy, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 6212024
“Princeton AI Dialogues: U.S. Senate & House Briefings,” Center for Information Technology Policy, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 6212024
SINSI Summer Reception, Scholars in the Nation’s Service, 6242024
Princeton Club of Washington Annual Meeting, Princeton Club of Washington, 6252024
“A Career in Public Policy: A Conversation with Victoria Brown ‘08,” Princeton-in-Washington, 6272024
Place-based Learning Trip for Summer Undergraduate Interns, John H Pace Jr ’39 Center for Civic Engagement, 6282024
“A Conversation on Conflict and Peace Building in the U.S. with Shannon Hiller ‘15,” Princeton-inWashington, 6282024
“Advocating for Public Health, a conversation with Robert Falk '85,” Princeton-in-Washington, 7.2.2024.
Public Interest Tech Summer Fellows Meeting and Reception, Empirical Studies of Conflict, NYU Center for Social Media/Politics, 792024
Alumni Lunch with Dean Amaney Jamal, SPIA Alumni Relations Office, 7112024
MPA 75: Bob Hutchings and Dean’s Gratitude Event, SPIA Alumni Relations Office, 7.11.2024.
MPA 75 Summer Alumni Networking Event, SPIA Alumni Relations Office, 7112024
“The Supreme Court in 2023: A Conversation with Ilya Shapiro '99 after Another Big Term,” Princeton-in-Washington, 7.15.2024.
“Careers in Climate and Energy Policy: Inside, Outside and all around the Federal Government,” Princeton-in-Washington, 7172024
EVENTS 2024-25 PRINCETON SPIA DC CENTER
“How to Lead Nonprofits: Turning Purpose Into Impact, ” Princeton SPIA DC Center, 7182024
“A Career in Journalism: A Conversation with Washington Post Reporter Ian Shapira '00,” Princeton-in-Washington, 7.23.2024.
“A Conversation with Larry Handerhan *12 and Jennifer Cannistra '01,” Princeton-in-Washington, 7.25.2024.
“Finding Your Path: A conversation with Kathryn Hamm '91,” Princeton-in-Washington, 7292024
“Pre-Law Advising with Brandon Treviño,” Princeton-in-Washington, 812024
“Strategic Planning for the U.S. Nuclear Arms Control,” Princeton SPIA Program on Science and Global Security, 8132024
“Three Years Later: The Dire State of Afghanistan and Global Strategies for Ways Forward,” Afghanistan Policy Lab, Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace, and Security, 8292024
Alumni Advisory Group Quarterly Meeting & Lunch, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 962024
Staff Retreat, Princeton Bridging Divides Initiative, 9182024 - 9202024
“Sundowners DC Institutions: Welcome to SPIA,” Princeton SPIA DC Center, 9192024
“Economic Diversification in Saudi Arabia, ” SPIA Policy Workshop, 9.27.2024.
“Undergraduate Policy Day in Washington”, SPIA Undergraduate Program Office, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 9272024
Research Assistant Retreat, Princeton Bridging Divides Initiative, 9282024 - 9292024
“Building International Strategies on China Security and Tech Issues,” SPIA Policy Workshop, 1042024
“Connecting Research with Policy: Foreign Influence, Disinformation, and Generative AI,” Empirical Studies of Conflict, NYU Center for Social Media / Politics, 10162024
“China’s Economic Troubles: Temporary Woes or Structural Reckoning?,” Peterson Institute for International Economics, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 10172024
Fall Alumni Social, SPIA Alumni Relations Office, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 10232024
“Future of American National Security,” American Academy for Strategic Education, 11.13.2024.
Prospect House Salon Series: “Is the UN still relevant? A Discussion on UN Security Council Gridlock,” Princeton SPIA DC Center, 11142024
Dialogue with Princeton Model Congress, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 11152024
Pre-APPAM Conference Gathering & Alumni Networking Event, Joint Degree Program in Social Policy, 11202024
SINSI Dinner, Scholars in the Nation’s Service, 11212024
“Princeton AI Dialogues: AI Policy Precepts, ” Center for Information Technology Policy, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 1252024
Post-COPs 16 & 29 Environment + Security Gathering, High Meadows Environmental Institute, 1262024
“China Policy Workshop” Presentation to DC Policymakers, SPIA Policy Workshop, 1262024
Career Compass Series: “Career Pivots: The Why & How of Professional Reinventions,” Princeton SPIA DC Center, 1292024
Class SPIA 301: “Unleashing Latin America’s Potential for Prosperity” Class Meeting with DC Policymakers, SPIA Class, 12102024
Prospect House Salon Series: “Impact of Financial Regulation on Income Inequality,” Princeton SPIA DC Center, 12122024
Post-Election Strategy Session with Program Partners, State Health and Value Strategies (SPIA/CHW), SPIA NJ, 12122024
EVENTS 2024-25
PRINCETON SPIA DC CENTER
“The Quest for Inclusive Peace in Afghanistan,” Afghanistan Policy Lab, 12.13.2024.
Annual Gathering, Princeton Club of Washington, 12202024
Norwegian Commission on Afghanistan: Meeting with Ambassador Adela Raz, Afghanistan Policy Lab, 152025
"Crafting Your Brand" Workshop, Princeton SPIA DC Center (Alumni Sub-Committee), 1132025
“Princeton AI Dialogues: AI Policy Precepts, ” Center for Information Technology Policy, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 1152025
Chief AI Officer Dinner, Center for Information Technology Policy, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 1152025
Prospect House Salon Series: “The New Administration, Climate Policy, & Future of Net Zero,” Princeton SPIA DC Center, 1162025
SPIA/STEP Alumni Meeting, Center for Policy Research on Energy and the Environment, 1242025
In Defense of Partisanship Book Launch featuring Julian Zelizer, NYU John Brademas Center, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 1302025
Ivy Social Club Art Reception, Princeton Club of Washington, 1302025
Alumni Advisory Group Lunch, Princeton SPIA DC Center (Alumni Sub-Committee), 2202025
Class SPIA 593p Class Day in Washington DC–Strategists, Experts, & Policymakers, SPIA Class, 2212025
Princeton Alumni Schools Committee Undergraduate Student Interviews, Princeton Alumni Schools Committee, 2222025
SPIA 502 Class - Psychology in Policy Refresh, SPIA Alumni Relations Office, 2282025
SPIA Graduate Career Day: International Development Day, SPIA Graduate Career Development, 2.28.2025.
SPIA Student & Alumni Soiree, SPIA Graduate Career Development, SPIA Undergraduate Program Office, SPIA Alumni Relations Office, 2282025
Spring 2025: Undergraduate Policy Day in Washington, SPIA Undergraduate Program Office, 2282025
Alumni Community Gathering: “In Service of the Nation and Humanity: What’s Next?,” Princeton SPIA DC Center, 332025
“Future of Foreign Aid” Workshop Series (Part I), Princeton SPIA DC Center and Development Economics Faculty, 3172025
SINSI Dinner with Dr. Anne-Marie Slaughter, Scholars in the Nation’s Service, 3182025
BDI & Middlebury University in DC, Princeton Bridging Divides Initiative, 3.202025
Diplomatic Corps Dinner Series: Europe, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 3202025
SGS 50th Anniversary, Princeton SPIA Program on Science and Global Security, 3252025
PVETS All-Ivy Reception, Ivy League Veterans Alumni, 412025
Books & Cocktails with Alex Cuadros & Bruna Santos, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 412025
“Criminal Justice Reform: Second Chances Under the Second Trump Administration,” Policy Advocacy Clinic, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 432025
Class SPIA 593m “Nonstate Violence, Human Capital, and Economic Development” Class Day in DC, SPIA Class, 472025
Careers in Government Day, The Whig-Cliosophic Society, 4112025
Diplomatic Corps Dinner Series: Middle East, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 4172025
EVENTS 2024-25 PRINCETON SPIA DC CENTER
Politics of Sovereign Finance Conference, Princeton Sovereign Finance Lab, 4.22.2025 - 4.23.2025.
Julis-Rabinowitz Center for Public Policy & Finance Climate Workshop, Julis-Rabinowitz Center for Public Policy & Finance, 4252025
“Future of Foreign Aid” Workshop Series (Part II), Princeton SPIA DC Center and Development Economics Faculty, 4252025
P*Law Problem-Solving Workshop:
“Perceptions of Public International Law in the U.S.,” Program in Law & Public Policy, 4.28.2025.
“Locked Out: Housing Barriers, Criminal Records, and the Path to Reform,” Congressional Addiction Treatment and Recovery Caucus, Princeton SPIA DC Center, R Street, Institute, Americans for Prosperity, Drug Policy Alliance, Dream.org, Princeton Eviction Lab, 4.29.2025.
Public Service Salon Series: Deborah Pearlstein on Contemporary Constitutional Questions, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 4292025
Environmental Policy Networking Reception - DC Climate Week, Center for Policy Research on Energy and the Environment, 4302025
Public Launch of the People’s Republic of China Public Opinion Study on Foreign Policy, Princeton SPIA DC Center, Emory University, The Carter Center, 4302025
EVENTS 2023-24
PRINCETON SPIA DC CENTER
Launch: The Princeton SPIA DC Center, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 5102023
“Conceptualizing Gender Apartheid: The “Apartheid” Context in International Law,” Afghanistan Policy Lab, 08152023
“Improving State-Level Energy Decisions to Address Air Quality, Health, and Equity goals,” Center for Policy Research on vironment, 09.18.202309.19.2023.
An Evening with Princeton Athletics in Washington, D.C. Princeton Varsity Club, 10122023
Alumni Rooftop Soiree, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 1112023
Israel-Gaza Policy Conversation, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 1122024
Diplomatic Dinner Series: Latin America, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 1182024
PVETS Army ROTC Cadets Reception, PVETS, 1.27.2024.
Diplomatic Dinner Series: Asia-Pacific, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 1292024
Policy Workshop: Climate Migration from Guatemala, SPIA Policy Workshop, 222024
“Rebuilding a Free World Economic Bloc,” Center for International Security Studies, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 2.8.2024 - 2.9.2024.
Inside DC: Undergrad Policy Day in Washington, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 2162024
MPA75 Alumni Networking Reception, SPIA Alumni Relations Office, 2.23.2024.
SPIA Graduate Career Day: DC Political Appointee Event, SPIA Graduate Career Development, 2232024
SPIA Graduate Career Day: Development Careers, SPIA Graduate Career Development, 2232024
“Globalization, the U.S. Economy, and Political Backlash, ” The Niehaus Center for Globalization and Governance, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 2.29.2024.
PREPARE Event: Climate Change Impacts, Sustainability at Princeton, 342024
SPIA-SINSI Fellows Event, Scholars in the Nation’s Service, 342024
SPIA DC Alumni Advisory Group Quarterly Meeting, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 3.12.2024.
CITP On the Road Event/Reception, Center for Information Technology Policy, 3152024
Annual Giving in the Office of Development Volunteer Recruitment Event, Princeton University Annual Giving, 3.21.2024.
SPIA-SINSI Fellows Event, Scholars in the Nation’s Service, 492024
SGS Physicists Coalition: Early Career Professionals Event on Nuclear Arms Control, Princeton SPIA Program on Science and Global Security, 4152024
Inaugural Workshop: The Politics of Sovereign Finance, Princeton Sovereign Finance Lab, 4172024 - 4182024
Princeton AI Dialogues U.S. Senate & House of Representatives: Expert Briefings, Center for Information Technology Policy, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 4182024
Financing Sustainable, Inclusive and Rapid Growth in Africa: Part 1, Africa Policy Network, 4192024
Program in History and Practice of Diplomacy Undergraduate Career Day in Washington, Department of Politics, 4192024
SPIA Salon Subcommittee Meeting, Princeton SPIA DC Center, 4222024
Princeton Multi-Class Pre-Reunion Reception, Princeton University Annual Giving, 4.25.2024.
JRCPPF Undergraduate Associate Field Trip to Washington, D.C, Julis-Rabinowitz Center for Public Policy & Finance, 4292024
PRINCETON SPIA DC CENTER
ROOFTOP EVENT CENTER
PRINCETON SPIA DC CENTER TEAM
Zach Vertin Director & Lecturer of Public & International Affairs
Zach Vertin joined the Princeton SPIA DC Center as its inaugural director in the fall of 2023 In this role he directs public and private initiatives on domestic and foreign policy issues pairing University faculty, experts, and students with policy constituencies across the federal policy landscape He is also a Lecturer at the School of Public and International Affairs Vertin previously served in senior foreign policy roles in the Biden and Obama Administrations, and in policy roles for think tanks and non-governmental organizations in the US and overseas He is the author of A Rope from the Sky: The Making and Unmaking of the World’s Newest State (2019), and has published policy research, long-form analyses, and commentary on a range of foreign policy issues. Vertin earned a Master’s in Public Policy degree from Princeton's School of Public and International Affairs and a bachelor’s degree from St. John's University.
Jacob Miller Kostrzewski Events Manager
Christopher Sfetsios Program Manager
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
We would like to thank our many faculty, colleagues, and partners across the School of Public and International Affairs and Princeton University, as well as the many SPIA alumni who have been active contributors to the life of the Princeton SPIA DC Center. We are especially grateful to our staff and volunteers, including Maria Cecilia Romano who spearheaded the production of this report as well as Michael Chapman, Julie Whittaker, Hanifa Darwish, Andra Popescu, D’Angelo Anderson, Kevin Ward, Taylor Shineman, and Ava Yi.