A hallmark event, SCUSA stands as the oldest and most extensive conference of its kind, fostering civil-military engagement among upcoming leaders. Upholding its tradition of excellence, SCUSA 74 will see participation from 60 Cadet delegates, 200 students from over 100 U.S. institutions, including international affiliates spanning various academic domains. The program will feature a senior panel discussion, a keynote by Presidential Envoy on Climate Change, John Kerry, four roundtable sessions, and a closing session with presentations on U.S. foreign policy recommendations. 

Opening Panel: We are honored to have the opening panel moderated by Former US ambassador, retired lieutenant general, and the Robert F. McDermott Distinguished Chair, Douglas Lute. Accompanying him on the panel will be:  

SCUSA 74's theme is "Innovation and the Future of American Foreign Policy." The 21st century continues to present obstacles to American leadership. How can the United States innovate to tackle pressing challenges of domestic and foreign policy? How will American institutions promote innovation to support democracy and economic development at home while bolstering American soft and hard power abroad?   How effectively will America's international partners-and America's competitors-employ emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, and renewable energy, to advance competing visions of the future? Technology is not the only factor driving as well as facilitating innovation. Private sector entities, governmental departments and agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and multilateral institutions operate in demanding and dynamic political, social, and economic contexts. Advancing American interests and values in a competitive global environment will require innovative organizations, approaches, and practices. The 15 roundtables of SCUSA 74 will discuss how innovation may occur and how the presence or absence of change will affect American values and interests in the coming decades.