Kiron Skinner is a distinguished American political scientist whose career has significantly shaped the landscape of international relations and national security policy. She served as the Director of Policy Planning at the United States Department of State during the first Trump administration, where she played a pivotal role in formulating long-term strategies for U.S. foreign policy. Her leadership in this capacity included coordinating the Commission on Unalienable Rights, which aimed to reassess the foundations of human rights policy in the U.S. under Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

Prior to her tenure at the State Department, Skinner was the Taube Professor of International Relations and Politics at Carnegie Mellon University, where she founded the Institute for Politics and Strategy. Her academic contributions at Carnegie Mellon included advising on national security policy and directing the undergraduate major in International Relations and Politics. Skinner’s influence extended beyond academia as she served as a senior foreign policy adviser for prominent political figures, including Newt Gingrich and Mitt Romney, showcasing her expertise in shaping political discourse.

Skinner is also recognized for her scholarly work, co-authoring two New York Times bestsellers on Ronald Reagan, which highlighted the former president’s intellectual depth and engagement with complex policy issues. Her academic credentials are bolstered by her degrees from prestigious institutions, including a PhD from Harvard University, where she was mentored by Condoleezza Rice.

Currently, Skinner holds the position of Taube Professor at Pepperdine University, where she continues to educate future leaders in national security and public policy. Her ongoing contributions to the field, including her recent work with the Heritage Foundation, reflect her commitment to advancing strategic thought in American foreign policy and her dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment.