From May 5-16, 2025, the William J. Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies convened 105 participants from 25 countries for the resident phase of two concurrent courses: Caribbean Security & Defense (CSD) and Governance and Strategy for Security & Defense (GSSD). Vice Admiral Exón Oswaldo Ascencio Albeño, Chief of the Joint Staff of the Armed Forces of El Salvador and a Perry Center alumnus, delivered the keynote address. His presence underscored the growing network of graduates shaping national and regional security policy.

This year marked the first time since 2017 that the Center hosted a Washington-based Caribbean security and defense course. During two weeks, the program addressed key regional threats – from maritime security to cyber and critical infrastructure protection challenges. Field trips in the greater capital region and comparative discussions provided a platform to connect theory with practice.

In the GSSD course, participants explored strategic frameworks, resource management, and the role of government officials in developing policies aligned with national interests. Through dialogue and shared experiences, participants learned to align civilian and military capabilities to strengthen strategic governance.

“Cooperation—whether at sea or in a crisis room—is the most powerful tool we have,” said Perry Center Director Dr. Paul J. Angelo in his welcome remarks. “Bridges have been built here – between theory and everyday practice, between national experiences and shared regional challenges.”

As we celebrate the achievements of both courses, the Perry Center also extends its appreciation to course directors Dr. William Godnick and Dr. Pat Paterson (CSD), and Dr. David Spencer (GSSD); our facilitators Alexander Causwell, Dr. Carlos Ojeda, Marco Velarde, and Santiago Laguardia; and our more than twenty distinguished guest speakers.

Thank you to our participants, faculty, guest speakers, institutional partners, and the Perry Center staff for making these two weeks a powerful reminder of what shared learning, mutual trust, and common vision can achieve.