Today, the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC) announced that former United States Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper has joined the USGLC National Advisory Council. As a trusted voice on national security and foreign policy, and as a leader during the Trump Administration, Secretary Esper has a keen understanding of the threats, challenges, and opportunities the United States faces—from great power competition with China to Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine to a global food crisis and supply chain disruptions—that significantly impact global stability at home and abroad.

“I have seen firsthand the important role America’s diplomacy and development tools play in our national security by reducing instability, creating pathways to prosperity, and strengthening our alliances and partnerships across the globe,” said Secretary Esper. “I am proud to continue to support this important bipartisan work through the USGLC National Advisory Council and help ensure Congress and the American people understand why supporting America’s leadership abroad matters here at home.”  

The USGLC’s National Advisory council brings together distinguished leaders including former Cabinet officials and members of Congress and provides strategic counsel to the USGLC on its efforts to advocate for a strong U.S. International Affairs Budget. Formerly chaired by the late General Colin Powell, this prominent group of advocates for U.S. global engagement includes former Secretaries of State Hilary Clinton and Condoleezza Rice, former Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, and former National Security Advisors Thomas Donilon and Stephen Hadley, among other U.S. foreign policy leaders. 

Secretary Mark T. Esper brings experience and leadership from a distinguished military and national security career that included both civilian and active-duty service, serving as the 23rd Secretary of the Army prior to becoming the 27th Secretary of Defense. He served in the 101st Airborne Division and participated in the Gulf War with the “Screaming Eagles.” He commanded the 3-325 Airborne Battalion Combat Team, and spent 11 years in the National Guard and Army Reserve. After active duty, Esper served in senior staff roles for the Senate Foreign Relations and Government Affairs Committees, and House Armed Services Committee. He also served at the Pentagon during the George W. Bush Administration and as National Security Advisor for Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist.  

“At a time when America continues to face global threats that have a significant national security and economic impact on American families, Secretary Esper understands the importance of investing in development and diplomacy alongside a strong military to tackle these challenges and prevent future conflict and instability,” said Liz Schrayer, President and CEO of USLGC. “We are fortunate to have him join our Advisory Council, adding his expertise, alongside our distinguished voices, helping advance America’s leadership on the global stage.”  

A complete list of the members of the USGLC Advisory Councils can be found here.