The University of Georgia’s Center for International Trade and Security, a worldwide pioneer in strategic trade and international security education, has been renamed the Benson-Bertsch Center for International Trade and Security. This renaming of the center, located within the School of Public and International Affairs, pays tribute to the legacy of two influential figures whose efforts have greatly impacted the university, the Athens community, and the global arena.
The renaming was made feasible through a generous contribution from the Ed and Robin Benson Foundation in memory of Robin’s late husband, Howard Edsel “Ed” Benson, and as a tribute to Gary Bertsch, the founding director of the center. This donation represents Ed and Robin Benson’s enduring dedication to service, education, and global outreach.
“Over a generation ago, Dr. Bertsch established the University of Georgia as a key institution for applied research on nuclear nonproliferation, export regulation, and other delicate national security matters,” stated Matthew Auer, dean of SPIA. “Robin and Ed Benson recognized the significance of this endeavor a long time ago. Ms. Benson’s latest transformative donation allows the center to sustain its essential educational, research, and training initiatives indefinitely.”
The naming ceremony on April 29 attracted faculty, alumni, community members, and students who came together to acknowledge the contributions of these individuals and to celebrate a center that has significantly advanced U.S. and global security education, training, and policy analysis for decades.
A legacy of leadership and service
Founded in 1987 with the backing of former U.S. Secretary of State Dean Rusk, the center has matured into a globally respected establishment that enables students and professionals to tackle intricate trade and security issues on a worldwide scale. Through its research efforts, policy involvement, and interdisciplinary learning atmosphere, the center grooms the next generation of leaders to contribute to a safer, more prosperous world. UGA’s department of international affairs partners with the center to run the esteemed Master of International Policy degree program, with graduates taking roles in national security, energy security, and human security, both in government and beyond. Numerous other campus units enhance the curricular and co-curricular offerings at the center, including the College of Engineering.
Gary Bertsch, a distinguished faculty member at UGA for over 40 years, established the center and guided it to international acclaim. Under his stewardship, the center attracted over $50 million in external funding and shaped U.S. and global policy on nuclear nonproliferation and strategic trade. A University Professor Emeritus and recipient of the President’s Medal, Bertsch is also renowned for mentoring countless students and for his deep dedication to community development at both local and global levels.
Honoring Ed and Robin Benson
An Athens native and proud UGA alumnus, Ed Benson was a decorated World War II veteran, a civic leader, and an advocate for public service. From delivering Meals on Wheels into his 90s to leading the Rotary Club of Athens as its youngest district governor, Benson’s life exemplified the Rotary motto: “Service Above Self.” He held various leadership positions across the university, including on the UGA Foundation and Athletic Association boards, and received multiple accolades, including the Distinguished American Award and the UGA Alumni Association’s Family of the Year award.
His spouse, Robin Benson, an accomplished higher education administrator, shares his commitment to service and philanthropy. Together, they have worked toward making Athens a vibrant and inclusive community while supporting initiatives that have lifted the University of Georgia onto the national stage.
A new chapter for global engagement
The renaming of the Benson-Bertsch Center enhances SPIA’s reputation for excellence in security studies.
“Ms. Benson’s generous endowment genuinely promotes the center to new heights,” remarked Justin Conrad, the Gary K. Bertsch Director of the Benson-Bertsch Center for International Trade and Security and a professor of international affairs. “We are now able to build upon the remarkable opportunities provided to our students while honoring the legacy of this esteemed institution. Ms. Benson has laid a strong foundation for the center’s future.”
The fund established through this contribution will offer significant support for the Benson-Bertsch Center for International Trade and Security, enabling it to enhance its programs, adapt to new opportunities, and continue delivering impactful learning and research experiences in international trade and security.
The post UGA center named for prominent alumnus, faculty member appeared first on UGA Today.