Mr. Ricardo Vanella, as the Board President of the Inter-American Defense College Foundation at Fort Lesley J. McNair in Washington, D.C., brings over 36 years of visionary leadership and global expertise to advise corporations, institutions, and NGOs. His distinguished career spans continents and disciplines and is characterized by a profound commitment to fostering international cooperation. This commitment inspires his audience, instills hope for a more connected world, and reflects his relentless dedication to shaping policy through diplomacy and education. His ongoing commitment to global strategy, citizen diplomacy, and leadership is evident in his work to strengthen international alliances and strategic partnerships.

A sought-after speaker, speechwriter, author, and media professional, Mr. Vanella has been a professor at renowned universities and led initiatives backed by the United Nations, European Union, U.S. Department of Commerce, USAID, and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). His ability to navigate and master complex global landscapes and foster meaningful partnerships has been instrumental in advancing major international projects.

Beyond his consulting endeavors, Mr. Vanella holds significant leadership roles across various prestigious organizations. He serves as Co-chair of the Cultural Vistas Alumni Council, Executive Director of The Global Chamber in Buenos Aires, and President of both the Inter-American Network of Alumni Associations and the Argentine-American Network for Leadership.

Additionally, he has been a pivotal figure on numerous boards, including the Leadership Center Advisory Council at Franklin University, the American Club of Buenos Aires, and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Marketing and Advertising Commission, Argentina chapter.

Mr. Vanella’s pioneering spirit in citizen diplomacy is evident in his historic role as the first non-U.S. citizen to serve on the Board of Global Ties U.S. This organization, nominated for the 2001 Nobel Peace Prize, is renowned for its work and partnership with the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP).

Mr. Vanella’s educational journey is a testament to his diverse and comprehensive knowledge of strategy, business, and international relations. He holds a Law degree from the National University of Cordoba (Argentina), an MBA from Bocconi University (Italy), and a specialization in International Business at the American University of Paris (France). His professional development includes the Strategy and Defense Policy Program and Joint Inter-Agency Operations at the William J. Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies, National Defense University, U.S. Department of Defense, and the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) on Globalization & International Trade, and Alumni Associations Development.