Reunion Weekend 2026 Brings SAIS’ Global Community Back to Washington, D.C.
March 27, 2026
More than 150 alumni from over 10 countries and 20 U.S. states returned to Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) in Washington, D.C. March 27-28, 2026, for a memorable Reunion Weekend, celebrating alumni achievements, lifelong connections, and the global impact of the SAIS community.
The reunion marked milestone anniversaries for alumni celebrating their 5th, 10th, 25th, and 50th years since graduation from SAIS and the Hopkins‑Nanjing Center—the Classes of 2021, 2016, 2001, and 1976. The weekend coincided with an exciting moment in the institution’s history as Johns Hopkins University celebrates its 150th anniversary.
The reunion events at the Hopkins Bloomberg Center offered participating alumni an opportunity to reconnect while exploring the school’s state‑of‑the‑art facilities. The program was designed to reflect the spirit of SAIS—bringing together not only alumni but also students, faculty, and school leadership for dialogue across generations and disciplines.
Friday Highlights: Thought Leadership and Career Reflection
The weekend began Friday afternoon with welcoming remarks and a keynote address by Jonathan W. Burks ’10, executive vice president for economic and health policy at the Bipartisan Policy Center, a Washington, D.C.-based think tank. Burks shared timely perspectives on global economic and policy challenges, followed by a fireside chat and an audience question-and-answer session moderated by Dean James B. Steinberg.
In his remarks, Burks also highlighted the importance of a SAIS education. “In this moment when America needs the capacity and nimbleness to respond to multifront challenges, I can think of no better preparation than a SAIS education,” he said. “By challenging students to think across disciplines and with analytical rigor, SAIS is preparing the next generation for challenges whose solutions we’re only beginning to figure out.”
After the keynote, members of the Class of 1976 were honored during the 50th Class Medallion Ceremony, recognizing five decades of leadership, service, and enduring connection to SAIS. The afternoon continued with a special in‑person celebration for the Class of 2021, many of whom were unable to mark their graduation on campus during the COVID‑19 pandemic.
Alumni could then choose between a Student Showcase, featuring experiential learning presentations from current SAIS students, or guided tours of the Hopkins Bloomberg Center. The student presenters shared insights from study trips and practicums in Indonesia, Botswana, and the energy and environmental policy space—highlighting the continued global reach of a SAIS education.
A standout feature of the afternoon was the Alumni Career Spark Talks, where alumni from multiple class years and sectors shared candid reflections and practical advice. Topics ranged from navigating career transitions and understanding evolving workforce needs to applying geopolitical analysis beyond traditional policy roles.
Nick Noel, ‘16, spoke about the importance of clear communication skills and “knowing your north star as you build your career.” Danica Starks, ‘01, underscored the value of lifelong learning, building networks and seizing opportunities in the shifting global marketplace.
“What I have learned is this: you already carry more with you than you think. Your skills, your experiences, your perspective—they do not disappear when you change paths; they compound”, said Roxana Martinelli, ‘16, in her talk on navigating career transitions. “Your career is not a ladder you climb; it is something you build piece by piece, decision by decision.”
The first day concluded with alumni‑student networking and Friday Happy Hour, a beloved SAIS tradition that brought together generations of the SAIS community in celebration.
Saturday: Back to the Classroom—and Looking Ahead
Saturday’s program began with a family‑friendly brunch, welcoming alumni spouses, partners, and children, followed by opportunities to return to the classroom. Alumni participated in faculty‑led lectures on global conflict management, intelligence in policymaking and the private sector, and the future of international institutions. For those seeking a hands‑on experience, a crisis simulation challenged participants to navigate rising U.S.‑China‑Taiwan tensions in a fast‑moving geopolitical scenario set in August 2026.
Throughout the afternoon, alumni reconnected in the reunion lounge, explored the Washington, D.C. campus, and met with SAIS leadership during a Meet the Deans session. The school’s associate and assistant deans shared updates on SAIS priorities, academic innovation, global careers, enrollment, and community-building initiatives, offering alumni an inside look at the school’s direction.
A Global Community, Reunited
Reunion Weekend 2026 concluded with a Closing Reception hosted by Dean Steinberg, celebrating the shared history, renewed friendships, and the close ties that connect the SAIS community. The weekend was more than a celebration—it was a reminder of the strength and global reach of the SAIS alumni network.
