Evelyn Farkas Keynote Speaker

Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Russia/Ukraine/Eurasia under the Obama administration
Recognized authority on U.S. national security, currently serving as a National Security Contributor for NBC/MSNBC and Executive Director at the McCain Institute
Author of "Fractured States and U.S. Foreign Policy: Iraq, Ethiopia, and Bosnia in the 1990s."

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Evelyn Farkas's Biography

Dr. Evelyn N. Farkas is a distinguished expert in U.S. national security with a specific focus on the Eurasia region, having served in key roles in the Obama administration. Her profound understanding of Russia and Eastern Europe has helped shape U.S. foreign policy.

From 2012 to 2015, Dr. Farkas served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Russia/Ukraine/Eurasia, during which she advised three U.S. Secretaries of Defense on policy towards Russia, Ukraine, and the surrounding region. Before that, she was a senior advisor to the Supreme Allied Commander Europe/Commander, U.S. European Command, and the Special Advisor for the Secretary of Defense for the NATO Summit.

In addition to her policy roles, Dr. Farkas has a strong academic background. She obtained her Ph.D. from The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University, and her B.A. degree from Franklin & Marshall College.

Currently, she is a National Security Contributor for NBC/MSNBC and Executive Director of the McCain Institute. She’s also the author of “Fractured States and U.S. Foreign Policy: Iraq, Ethiopia, and Bosnia in the 1990s.” Her analyses and insights are frequently featured in prominent publications, further cementing her reputation as a leading authority on U.S. foreign policy, defense, and national security.

Dr. Farkas has received numerous awards for her public service, including the Department of Defense Medal for Distinguished Public Service, the Secretary of Defense Medal for Outstanding Public Service, and the Department of Defense Medal for Distinguished Civilian Service. Her deep expertise in U.S.-Russia relations and extensive experience in foreign policy make her an invaluable voice in the ongoing discourse on global security matters.