Stephen Biegun and Mac Thornberry Appointed as Trustees

WASHINGTON, DC — The German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF) is delighted to announce the appointment of former US Deputy Secretary of State Stephen E. Biegun and the former Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, former Congressman William “Mac” Thornberry, as Trustees.

Biegun and Thornberry will help to oversee GMF’s new strategic direction and operations in its US headquarters and seven European offices at a crucial moment for the transatlantic relationship.  They will also provide guidance on GMF’s extensive transatlantic activities to strengthen democracy, shape future defense and economic policies, drive new thinking on technological advancements, and develop the next generation of transatlantic leaders. 

Stephen Biegun is senior vice president of Global Public Policy and a member of the executive council at The Boeing Company. He has more than three decades of international affairs experience in government and the private sector, with extensive experience on policy toward Russia and Central and Eastern Europe. In January 2021, he completed his most recent service as the Deputy Secretary of State at the United States Department of State. He has also served in senior roles in both the United States Senate and House of Representatives as well as the Executive Secretary of the National Security Council in the White House, and held a senior position at the Ford Motor Company.

Mac Thornberry served in Congress with distinction for 26 years and was one of Congress’ most thoughtful members on a range of national and domestic security issues. Widely respected across the political spectrum as an innovator and a strategic thinker, Mac has led on strategic nuclear issues, homeland security, cyber and space issues, as well as enhancing innovation and improving acquisition.

"We are thrilled to welcome Steve and Mac to GMF's Board of Trustees," said GMF President Heather A. Conley. "They share a deep and abiding commitment to the importance of allies to America’s national security.  They also both have extraordinary knowledge of the complexity and interconnectedness of international and domestic challenges that the United States faces at this critical moment.  Their insights will strengthen GMF’s work immeasurably.”

"It is an honor to welcome two such distinguished Trustees,” said Robin West, the Chair of the Board. "Mac and Steve have always demonstrated an unwavering dedication to the values that animate GMF. We look forward to their leadership as they help us put our ideas into action for the American people and our allies."

Contact: Chris Schaefer, Press Officer (DC); Angelina Sutalo, Senior Press Officer (Brussels)

Email: [email protected]; [email protected]

Phone: +1 202-642-7727; +32 486 514 479

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The German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF) is a non-partisan policy organization committed to the idea that the United States and Europe are stronger together. GMF champions the principles of democracy, human rights, and international cooperation, which have served as the bedrock of peace and prosperity since the end of World War II, but are under increasing strain. GMF works on issues critical to transatlantic interests in the 21st century, including the future of democracy, security and geopolitics, alliances and the rise of China, and technology and innovation. By drawing on and fostering a community of people with diverse life experiences and political perspectives, GMF pursues its mission by driving the policy debate through cutting-edge analysis and convening, fortifying civil society, and cultivating the next generation of leaders on both sides of the Atlantic.

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