2023 USSYP Yearbook - Flipbook - Page 24
(ABOVE) ODNI Chief
of Diversity, Equity and
Inclusion La Rue
(BELOW) DNI Haines
with Illinois delegates
Anusha Nadkarni and
Maisam Rajaie
DIRECTOR OF NATIONAL INTELLIGENCE
Avril Haines
A
vril Haines, the first woman to lead the U.S. Intelligence Community, described
how her agency was formed in the aftermath of 9/11 with “the urgent need to
bridge fault lines within our government and between foreign and domestic
intelligence. We are better defended today against terrorist attacks because of that
reorganization.” Her responsibilities include helping to prepare the President’s Daily Brief,
a summary and analysis of the current security landscape for the commander in chief.
Covering this vast array of issues is a highlight of her job. “I am constantly learning, every
day, and that makes me feel alive, working alongside extraordinary professionals who are
committed to protecting and serving the American people.” Maintaining objectivity is also
essential. “We value and believe our job is to speak truth to power. Politicized intelligence
simply reinforces preexisting beliefs and deprives the leaders of our country a foundation
for developing sound policy.” She recognized that many of the delegates would soon
begin their college and career paths and offered this: “We need people who can bring
fresh perspectives and ideas. If you think you don’t have the right skills or interest to join
the Intelligence Community, I think you may be surprised to learn what we do every day,”
she said, noting that national security includes a focus on such diverse fields as climate
change, global public health and emerging technologies. The students were able to ask
many questions, of both Director Haines and Ms. Stephanie La Rue, ODNI chief of diversity,
equity and inclusion, who joined the comprehensive presentation.
22 | UNITED STATES SENATE YOUTH PROGRAM 2023
