USAWC’s fellowship program an incredibly enriching experience

Stanford University in Palo Alto, CA., is one of several institutions that are selected to host fellows from the US Army War College Program, which helps Army leaders sharpen their skills and broaden their outlook as strategic thinkers. Recently, the Cardinal welcomed its newest fellow, Lt. Col. Vinh (Vinny) Nguyen.

The following is an interview between Nguyen and the staff of the fellow’s program.

Tell me about your Fellowship: My fellowship is with the Hoover Institution at Stanford University, which focuses on National Security Affairs and Public Policy. I am concentrating my research on three primary areas: China's influence on the United States media, the impact of emerging digital media trends on national security and public perception, and consumer behavior and preferences for my upcoming assignment at the Army Enterprise Marketing Office.

What has been your favorite part of being an AWC Fellow? My favorite aspect of being an AWC Fellow has been the opportunity to represent the Army in various non-military settings. This experience has opened doors to unique and valuable moments such as attending the Stanford Emerging Technology Review, a key event where top science faculty discussed advancements in technology and policy. The highlight was a conversation between Condoleezza Rice and Marc Andreessen, offering insights into the intersection of technology and society, particularly Andreessen's journey from co-founding Netscape to launching major tech companies. These opportunities enabled me to engage with successful business and community leaders and explore topics and problem-solving methods from perspectives outside the military.

Any unique or memorable experiences because of the Fellowship? (Army or personal) One memorable experience during this fellowship occurred when I was invited to represent the Army onstage during the national anthem at a San Francisco 49ers game. I've been a devoted 49er Faithful since childhood, making it even more meaningful to represent the Army at the home stadium of my favorite team. This experience merged the 2 biggest things in my life: the Army and the 49ers!

Your strategy paper/project sounds interesting—can you tell us about it? I opted for a video series titled “Faces of Service: Democracy is a Team Sport” as part of my FSRP instead of a traditional 5,000-word paper. This series aims to reshape the public perception of public service in the United States. The core strategy involves sharing relatable stories to inspire a call to action and rebuild trust in federal institutions, focusing on democracy as a team sport. I enlisted the help of all the other national security fellows to do this - one from the FBI, one from the State Dept. and member from each service branch. I broke the down the U.S. Constitution's preamble into eight sections, and each individual will relate a personal story from that section.

How was your experience studying/learning at a civilian institution? What surprised you?

Studying at Stanford has proven to be an incredibly enriching experience for me. The aspect that surprised me the most was the warm reception from professors and students in the classes I audited. They frequently invite e to share my viewpoint and lean on my military experience, creating an environment that encourages meaningful dialogue. This unexpected level of engagement and inclusivity has genuinely elevated my overall learning experience.

Who has been your favorite speaker and why? speaker I particularly admire is Peter Robinson, a research fellow at the Hoover Institution and former speechwriter for the Reagan administration. Notably, he hosts the YouTube and podcast show "Uncommon Knowledge," where he uses his intelligence and wit to interview guests and discuss complex global issues. I had the privilege of attending a live taping of "Uncommon Knowledge," during which Peter engaged in a thought-provoking conversation with Elizabeth Economy, Ph.D. She shared with him a data-driven analysis that provided actionable solutions, empowering decision-makers to forge more resilient, balanced, and vigilant relationships with the People's Republic of China.

What have you found to be different or the same as your expectations ahead of being a Fellow?

The accessibility to the depth and breadth of expertise within the Hoover Institution has surpassed my expectations. In the first month at Stanford, the ten National Security Affairs Fellows, including myself, had the chance to engage in a meaningful conversation with General (R) Jim Mattis that extended beyond two hours. This encounter exemplifies the many similar experiences I've enjoyed with leading experts across various fields throughout the country. The richness of these interactions has far exceeded my initial expectations, providing valuable insights and perspectives that have profoundly enriched my fellowship experience.

Has this Fellowship allowed you to do things you wouldn’t have normally had the opportunity to do?

I was fortunate to get assigned to a fellowship close to my hometown in California. This proximity has allowed us to spend quality time with my and my wife's families. Our children have had the wonderful opportunity to connect with their cousins. Having previously completed battalion command in Japan, the experience of being back in the States, close to family, has been especially meaningful. We've been able to partake in a full year of birthday parties and holiday celebrations, creating cherished memories that highlight the value of this assignment.

Nguyen was born in Hong Kong and immigrated to the United States in 1981 and grew up in Stockton, CA. He holds 2 master’s degrees: one from Cornell University in Human Resources Management and one from the Naval Postgraduate School in Financial Management. He is married and has 2 children, twins that are 10.