James R. Clapper, Director of National Intelligence
Former Director of National Intelligence and retired Air Force Lt. Gen. James Clapper has been named distinguished senior fellow for intelligence and national security by the Center for New American Security.
Clapper will also join the CNAS board of advisers. At CNAS, he will contribute to research, mentor the next generation of national security leaders, and provide his perspective on today’s most pressing intelligence and national security issues.
As DNI, Clapper oversaw the 16-member intelligence community during some of the most complicated and urgent national security challenges in recent history. Before becoming DNI, he served as undersecretary of defense for intelligence, director of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, and director of defense intelligence. Clapper served in U.S. Armed Forces for 32 years, including two combat tours.
“We are excited to have Jim join CNAS and serve as a senior contributor and mentor to our team, as well as join our board of advisers,” said CNAS CEO Michèle Flournoy. “Jim is the consummate intelligence expert. He is dedicated to U.S. national security, knowledgeable, experienced and principled. He is committed to shaping and elevating the national security debate, and we are thrilled to welcome him to our team.”
Clapper earned his bachelor’s degree in government and politics from the University of Maryland, his master’s degree in political science from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, and an honorary doctorate in strategic intelligence.
