Info Session: Business Executives in National Security (BENS)

When: Wednesday, January 14th 2026, 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm EST

Location: Elliott School of International Affairs, 505, 1957 E Street Northwest, Washington, D.C

Jan. 14, 20263:30-5PMRoom 505, GW Elliott School of International Affairs Who you will meet:

Ian Wallace, Chief Program Officer

Sofia Olgado, Director of Engagements
About BENSBusiness Executives for National Security is a nationwide network of elite business leaders who are united in the belief that private-sector expertise and best practices help the Department of Defense and other national security agencies execute their missions to keep America secure.  In today’s complex and dynamic environment, threats to U.S. national security increasingly require public and private sector perspectives to merge. Founded in 1982, BENS has a long history of bringing the best talent in business together with senior national security leaders to apply their experience and innovative ideas to solve some of the Nation’s most complex and pressing security challenges. Operating as a non-partisan, non-profit organization, BENS does its work at no cost to government. What you can expect?
Attendees will make valuable connections with C-suite leaders at BENS 
Learn about programs that BENS hosts, to bring public and private sector perspectives together
Gain insight on the Stanley A. Weiss Fellowship program- which places high-performing candidates at the intersection of national security and the private sector and BENS' mission to connect national security and private sector leaders  
ESIA NO-SHOW POLICYIn order to ensure the effectiveness of the services offered by the Elliott School's Graduate Student Services and maintain professionalism and courtesy between graduate students, alumni, professional staff, and our Employer Partners, the No-Show Policy is in effect for this event.