On October 31, the fall Security and Defense Policy Course (SDP) came to a close. Fifty four students representing 17 countries throughout the Western Hemisphere gathered with the Perry Center faculty and staff and a number of distinguished guests from the DC diplomatic community to celebrate the conclusion of the SDP with a certificate ceremony and reception. The students completed a two-week residence phase at the Center, during which they attended plenary lectures, participated in group exercises and discussions, and had a chance to experience life in Washington, DC.

Perry Center Director Mark Wilkins and guest speaker Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Security Cooperation (DASD-SC) Thomas Ross, Jr. presided over the ceremony, and DASD-SC Ross spoke to the students about his experience in government and the importance of courses like the SDP for fostering personal relationships and professional collaboration among senior leaders in this field. Director Wilkins offered closing remarks and wished the students well as they return to their home countries to continue in their careers as security and defense professionals.