The Center for a New American Security mourns the loss of Joseph S. Nye Jr.  

Washington, May 8, 2025 – Today, Michèle Flournoy and Richard Fontaine​​​​​​​ issued the following statement on the passing of Joseph S. Nye Jr.:

“Joe Nye was a role model and mentor for several generations of national security professionals,” said Michèle Flournoy, chair of the CNAS Board of Directors. “In addition to his enormous impact on policy over the years, he made us think differently about America’s role in the world. He also invested tremendous time and energy in developing the next generation. He will be sorely missed by all of us.”

A leading theorist on international relations, Nye pioneered ideas that came to define diplomacy and foreign policy, while also mentoring generations of future leaders. For these contributions to the next generation, CNAS named its internship program after Nye, with dozens of emerging leaders joining CNAS as part of the Joseph S. Nye, Jr. National Security Internship and Mentoring Program.

“Beyond his intellectual contributions, Joe Nye was deeply committed to fostering the next generation of national security leaders,” said Richard Fontaine, chief executive officer at CNAS. “Many in Washington and beyond owe their starts to Joe’s leadership and mentorship. His loss is deeply felt here at the Center.”