UNT Launches National Security and Economic Strategy Initiative Led by Former Navy Secretary

The University of North Texas has launched a new initiative aimed at tackling some of the country’s most urgent challenges by bringing national security and economic strategy together at the institution.

The National Security and Economic Strategy Initiative (NSESI) will serve as a hub for research, education, and policy development focused on supply chain resilience, critical infrastructure, emerging technologies, and workforce preparation, the university said.

It’s a move that UNT leaders say reflects the university’s long-term commitment to innovation, public service, and strategic leadership.

Real-world focus, national stakes

The initiative formally debuted with a May summit in Denton that brought together senior leaders from government, industry, and the military to help shape the agenda—and to underscore the urgency of cross-sector collaboration.

“We had an incredible first summit, and we are excited about the future of our new National Security and Economic Strategy Initiative,” said UNT President Harrison Keller. “Our vision is to prepare young leaders to lead the way in national and economic security, give executives the tools they need to maximize their contributions, and support industry, government, and military institutions with the data, analysis, research, insights, and recommendations needed to implement better policies and decisions.”

“I am grateful for the immediate response to our efforts,” he added, “and I am honored to have the support of our amazing partners in this initiative.”

Leadership at the highest level

The NSESI is guided by a Presidential Advisory Council chaired by former U.S. Secretary of the Navy Gordon England. Members include: Hillwood Vice Chairman Darcy Anderson, former Undersecretary of Education Sara Martinez Tucker, Adm. Michael Mullen (USN, Ret.), Gen. David H. Petraeus (U.S. Army, Ret.), and Ryan LLC CEO G. Brint Ryan.

“The need for a program like the NSESI has never been greater,” England said. “The challenges we face require greater public-private collaboration, rapid innovation, and strong economic policy. I’m honored to help lead this effort and look forward to the contributions this institution will make.”

A new voice in the national security conversation

UNT officials say the initiative is built to offer a practical, regionally grounded perspective on issues often dominated by legacy institutions and East Coast think tanks.

“The discourse in national security is saturated with coastal insiders, offering old solutions,” said Stephen Rodriguez, managing partner at One Defense and chair of the initiative’s executive steering group.

Rodriguez said UNT, with its new National Security and Economic Strategy Initiative, offers a fresh perspective with real solutions from the whole country.

“They are quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with,” he said.

Tackling infrastructure, border strategy, and the economy

A key moment in the event was the presentation of the Raduege Award to retired Maj. Gen. Clint Crosier (U.S. Space Force) for his work accelerating innovation in national defense. The award helped set the tone for the initiative’s future, which is focused not only on ideas but on action.

Attendees at the summit tackled a wide range of topics—from cybersecurity and advanced technology to border policy and economic vulnerability.

“National security is about controlling critical infrastructure and understanding vulnerabilities,” said retired Maj. Gen. Annette Sobel, a former general in the Arizona Air National Guard. “Border security and the economy are paramount, not only in the United States but globally.”

U.S. Rep. Pete Sessions (R-Texas), who attended the summit, called it a powerful opportunity to shape future partnerships and policy.

“The gathering of top national and international leaders creates a powerful opportunity for thought leadership and meaningful partnerships that will help bolster America’s defense and economic strength,” Sessions said.

Maddie Preston contributed to this report.

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