Learning from the past. Examining the present. Preparing for the future.

The NSF brings changemakers, professionals, and community members together for non-partisan conversations on global security — and through our Youth Security Forum, we’re inspiring the next generation of leaders to carry that work forward.

UPCOMING PROGRAMS

October 6: Drones, Defense, and a Future Workforce for Nevada and the Nation with Michael Jiru Jr.
November TBA: Career Pathways and Networking Event
December 8th: Topic TBA
Future programs and tours are in the works. We welcome your ideas, input, and requests. Email: mccarthy@nationalsecurityforum.org

Subscribe to our Mailing List

Be the first to hear about upcoming programs, events, and conversations shaping national security in Nevada and beyond. Click below to create your account and join our community:

Search for Specific Programs or Topics of Interest:

LATEST NEWS

Save the date for future programs
summaries and commentary from recent programs

October 6, 2026 – Hybrid Forum: Drones, Defense, and a Future Workforce for Nevada and the Nation

Securing Our Future explores how Nevada can prepare the next generation for an evolving national security landscape. Featuring retired U.S. Air Force Colonel and UNR Aerospace and Defense Academy Director, Michael Jiru Jr., our forum will examine drones, emerging technologies, and the workforce needed to shape our nation’s future.

Commentary: 25 Years Ago (A Remembrance for 9/11)

Twenty-five years later, 9/11 remains more than a moment in history—it is a collection of memories, stories, and lives forever changed. In this reflection, Maureen McCarthy shares her personal account of that day and the enduring importance of remembering.

July 1, 2026 – Hybrid Forum: America at 250: Leadership, Service, and the Work of a More Perfect Union

Drawing on his experiences as a SEAL commander, special operations leader, entrepreneur, and Nevadan, Bill Wilson will reflect on the meaning of service in a divided country and the leadership lessons that remain essential to America's future, especially as we celebrate 250 years.

April 22, 2026 – Hybrid Forum: China, Iran, and the Future of Great-Power Competition: How Beijing Views the U.S.-Israel War with Iran

As war continues between the United States, Israel, and Iran, Dr. Xiaoyu "Shawn" Pu will explain China's perspective on the war and place it in the broader context of intensifying U.S.-China competition.

March 26, 2026 – Hybrid Forum: War in the Middle East: Defense Markets, Drones, and the Future of Global Military Power

With the United States, Israel, and Iran engulfed in war, the implications of one of the decade’s most consequential geopolitical crises extend far beyond the Middle East. Derek Bisaccio will examine how the conflict could reshape global defense markets, accelerate military modernization, and intensify strategic competition in the years ahead.

2026 Youth Security Forum

The Annual Youth Security Forum (YSF) event brings students together from Washoe County School District (WCSD) high schools to engage in spirited and civil discussions about timely and challenging national security issues.

Membership

Join a community committed to understanding the national security challenges shaping our world, with a diverse network and exclusive events.

BECOME A MEMBER →

Friends of the Forum

Help sustain our programs and bring timely national security conversations to Nevada communities and students through an annual membership.

LEARN MORE →

Sponsorship

Make a direct impact by supporting students, programs, and the next generation of national security leaders through a one-time contribution.

EXPLORE SPONSORSHIP →

Sponsor the Mission. Shape the Future.

Every dollar you contribute helps us create opportunities to learn, connect, and engage with the national security issues shaping our world.

Sponsor a student. Support the Youth Security Forum. Help bring a program to life. Your contribution helps expand access to national security education and meaningful opportunities for young people and our community.

Choose where you want to make an impact.

Corporate Sponsorship

Choose Your Level of Impact

Corporate sponsorship is available through an annual commitment at multiple levels:

Lithium Sponsor

$10,000

Gold Sponsor

$5,000

Silver Sponsor

$2,500

Explore Opportunities →

Lithium Sponsor – Mission Support and Test Services LLC

Mission Support and Test Services is a dynamic team of experts and leaders from Honeywell International Inc., Jacobs Engineering Group Inc., and Stoller Newport News Nuclear, Inc. – a subsidiary of Huntington Ingalls Industries, selected by the National Nuclear Security Administration as the Management and Operating Contractor for the Nevada National Security Site.

NATIONAL SECURITY FORUM