Thunderbird at ASU Launches O’Dowd Fellowship in Ocean Diplomacy adn Leadership
Arizona State University’s Thunderbird School of Global Management has launched the O’Dowd Fellowship in Ocean Diplomacy and Leadership,a new initiative funded by a significant gift from philanthropists Brian and Peggy O’Dowd. The fellowship aims to cultivate a new generation of leaders equipped to address the complex environmental, economic, and geopolitical challenges surrounding ocean governance and sustainability.
The O’Dowds’ gift is intended to be catalytic, sparking further investment in what they identify as an underdeveloped but crucial field. “This is seed funding,” Brian O’Dowd explained, “It’s the beginning of something much bigger. Others can take this further,and that would be the best possible outcome.”
Thunderbird officials expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. “We are proud to collaborate with Thunderbird in advancing this vital work,” a statement read. Brian O’Dowd added, “Thunderbirds have been changemakers around the world for generations. This fellowship ensures that the next generation will have the tools and knowledge to tackle challenges at the heart of environmental, economic and geopolitical issues.”
The fellowship directly supports ASU’s “Changing Futures” campaign, a university-wide initiative focused on transforming global education, improving humanity’s relationship with the planet, and developing future leaders. By integrating ocean diplomacy and leadership into Thunderbird’s academic and research programs, the fellowship aligns with all three pillars of the campaign. It aims to broaden access to global knowledge, nurture leaders dedicated to protecting the ocean, and foster innovation in areas like sustainability and biotechnology.
Hossain Ahmed Taufiq has been named the inaugural O’Dowd Postdoctoral Fellow. He will lead the establishment of the Ocean Diplomacy Lab, a global research initiative focused on developing practical and collaborative solutions for enduring ocean governance. Taufiq’s role will also involve building partnerships with ASU departments and external organizations, including Semester at Sea, to expand global experiential learning opportunities.
Brian O’Dowd emphasized the critical importance of the “blue economy” and the need for international cooperation. “The ocean will inevitably be used,” he stated, “but it must be within a framework that prevents further damage to the habitat. That requires global cooperation between nations, industries and innovators. without it, we face challenges even greater than climate change.”
the O’Dowds hope their investment will inspire others to prioritize ocean sustainability and contribute to a more secure future.”Through this fellowship,” O’Dowd concluded, “Thunderbird can lead on an issue that affects every human being on the planet.”
