National Intelligence University
Welcomes its Provost and a New Class of Students

Every year, the end of August marks an exciting time for students across the United States. Colleges and universities open their doors to new students ready for all the possibilities that higher education offers.

As the intellectual hub of the Intelligence Community (IC), National Intelligence University (NIU) welcomed a new class of future IC leaders at the Convocation on August 26, 2024, integrating more than 650 resident and part-time students to a tradition and robust legacy of national security leadership.

The Convocation is a celebration of the new academic year and the opportunities it brings. In this spirit, the NIU community officially installed its Provost and Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Juanita Cole, whom NIU President, Dr. John Ballard called, “a patriot of vision and real commitment to learning.”

An accomplished academic leader, Dr. Cole shared her belief that, “education is the most powerful weapon one can use to change the world.” She referred to the symbolism of being installed on August 26: “[The} date marks the anniversary of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution … granting women the right to vote. Women’s Equality Day is a time to celebrate the progress made toward gender equality and to reflect on the ongoing efforts to ensure equal rights for ALL women.”

Convocation attendees had the distinct opportunity to hear DNI Haines, who welcomed the entering class and encouraged students to take advantage of the expertise that NIU offers students. She also encouraged the students to challenge assumptions and long-held beliefs, a challenge that Dr. Ballard echoed: “Ask tough questions; probe issues; accept risk; and yes, push forward wherever you can in this wonderfully secure environment and even be free to fail. Here you can push your limits, you can build self-awareness, and you can hone weak skills and sharpen strengths.”

As the IC’s University, NIU is a community resource that offers opportunities to professionals across the national security enterprise. The administration, world-class faculty, and staff look forward to an exciting year of learning and innovative contributions to the evolving landscape of the Intelligence Community.