The Stimson Center’s Reimagining US Grand Strategy program concluded its first annual student competition, which challenged undergraduates to submit innovative policy proposals to improve U.S. foreign policy.
The first-place winner is James Maxcy of Arizona State University. Maxcy is studying mechanical engineering and his essay proposed that the United States lead on the development of an international orbital debris management system. Maxcy spoke of how his educational focus and interests led him to apply to the competition, saying:
The 2019 Indian anti-satellite test sparked my interest in orbital debris management, and I began to consider how the United States could lead in its mitigation. I believe my background in engineering and experience in general aviation provided me with a unique perspective on space and aviation policy, which contributed to the development of my essay.
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President and CEO of the Stimson Center Brian Finlay said of the “Build a Better US Foreign Policy” competition and Maxcy’s winning submission:
“At Stimson, we take pride in actively promoting diversity in all its forms—including diversity of thought, of academic and geographic background, and of course, of identity. By building uncommon alliances, we can promote innovation. I am particularly pleased therefore that James Maxcy, the first winner of the competition, is a mechanical engineering student. His proposal to strengthen U.S. diplomacy through orbital debris management was unique, and provided solid arguments in an under-analyzed sector in Washington. I trust his contribution will inspire our current leaders, and I encourage students throughout the United States be part of next year’s competition.”
The competition received applications from students across the country, with entries covering a wide range of policy issues. The first runner-up in this year’s competition was Sophie Adams-Smith, who studies international relations in the joint degree program between the College of William & Mary and the University of St Andrews. Her essay urged policymakers to rethink the practice of selecting political appointees as ambassadors. The second runner-up was David Mehran of the University of California, Santa Barbara. Mehran studies international relations and Chinese and his entry proposed a path forward for climate cooperation between the United States and China. The “Build a Better US Foreign Policy” student competition will return early next year, when the submission period will open for undergraduate student enrolled in U.S. universities.
