Stuart Piltch Award for National Security is now accepting applications for its 2025 cycle, providing undergraduate students with a unique platform to address the rapidly evolving challenges in the field of national security. Established by longtime national security advisor and technology strategist Stuart Piltch, this merit-based award seeks to encourage original thought and strategic vision among students committed to understanding and shaping the future of national defense.
-- TheOpen to undergraduates across the United States, the scholarship emphasizes academic engagement with pressing issues such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum computing, and other emerging technological forces. Through a competitive essay process, students will articulate their perspectives on the role of innovation in shaping national security—balancing risk mitigation and civil liberties in an increasingly complex digital world.
Stuart Piltch, the founder and namesake of the award, brings a longstanding history of leadership across intelligence, technology, and public policy. His experience includes advisory roles within national intelligence efforts and contributions to data-driven solutions in healthcare and insurance. Over the years, Stuart Piltch has become a respected figure in applying strategic frameworks such as game theory and systems analysis to real-world challenges that affect national safety and civil society.
The Stuart Piltch Award for National Security is grounded in this legacy of interdisciplinary insight and civic-minded innovation. Rather than a conventional scholarship focused solely on academic performance, the award is designed to elevate critical thinking and scenario planning in a time when global threats are accelerating due to digital transformation.
To apply, eligible undergraduate students must submit a 1,000-word original essay in response to the following prompt:
“National security is evolving at the pace of technology. Choose one emerging technological advancement—such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, quantum computing, or cybersecurity—and discuss its impact on national security. What threats do you foresee, and what strategies would you propose to mitigate those risks while preserving civil liberties?”
Submissions are expected to demonstrate clarity of thought, originality, and a nuanced understanding of national security issues in the modern era. Stuart Piltch emphasizes that applicants should view the prompt as an opportunity to propose not only solutions, but also frameworks for ethical governance in the technological age.
Applications are due by November 15, 2025, and the winner will be announced on December 15, 2025. The award is open to all undergraduate students currently enrolled at accredited colleges or universities within the United States, regardless of major or state of residence.
Stuart Piltch, who remains actively involved in mentoring the next generation of national policy thinkers, views this scholarship as an extension of his commitment to national service and institutional progress. He continues to engage with academic and professional communities, ensuring the award remains relevant and impactful in a world of rapidly shifting geopolitical and technological dynamics.
By launching this award, Stuart Piltch underscores the value of preparing young leaders to approach security not only with technical knowledge but with ethical insight, foresight, and the flexibility to adapt to fast-moving threats.
For complete details and submission guidelines, applicants are encouraged to visit the official website.
Contact Info:
Name: Stuart Piltch
Email: Send Email
Organization: The Stuart Piltch Award for National Security
Website: https://stuartpiltchaward.com/
Release ID: 89165491