A Journey of Courage and Global Leadership

Evelyn Farkas F95 FG99

Born to Hungarian refugees who fled the aftermath of the 1956 uprising, Evelyn Farkas' upbringing was shaped by the echoes of political turmoil and the pursuit of freedom. Growing up bilingual in Hungarian and English, she learned early on the stark disparities between types of government and the enduring value of liberty.

Navigating Two Worlds

After graduating from Franklin & Marshall College, Farkas embarked on a career in international relations, leveraging her linguistic skills to secure a position at the prestigious Council on Foreign Relations in New York City. It was here that she began to explore the intricacies of global affairs, laying the foundation for her future endeavors.

Encountering Professor Arpad von Lazar, a fellow Hungarian American, proved to be a pivotal moment as he urged her to apply to The Fletcher School. Once enrolled, Farkas found an environment that embraced her dual cultural identity. “Fletcher was a natural extension of my being raised in two cultures, and my understanding that there was something unique and special about this country that had taken my parents and given them, and by extension myself, the political and economic opportunity to succeed.”

From Diplomacy to Conflict Resolution

Initially drawn to the world of diplomacy, Farkas' focus soon shifted towards understanding and addressing the root causes of conflict. Immersing herself in the Security Studies Program at Fletcher, she explored the complexities of ethnic conflict and nationalism, fueled by her personal experiences and a fervent desire for change.

Farkas' journey took her across continents and through diverse experiences, from serving as a Human Rights Officer in Bosnia to teaching at the U.S. Marine Corps Command and Staff College. She lent her expertise to critical initiatives, leaving her mark on institutions such as the Senate Armed Services Committee and the Commission on Preventing WMD Proliferation and Terrorism.

A Visionary Leader

In 2012, Farkas' dedication and expertise were recognized by President Obama, who appointed her as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Russia, Ukraine, and Eurasia. Today, she continues to lead with integrity and vision as the Executive Director at the McCain Institute, championing global security, democracy, and human rights.

Evelyn Farkas' story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us of the transformative power of resilience, education, and unwavering commitment. Her journey underscores the importance of embracing diversity, fostering understanding, and working tirelessly to create a better world for generations to come.