"School, Center Alum Robert Zoellick Takes Reins of World Bank"

Newsletter Article, Belfer Center Newsletter, Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, Kennedy School of Government

Winter 2007-2008

Robert Zoellick, International Security Program research fellow (1999-2000) and Kennedy School alumnus, was appointed in July 2007 as the 11th president of the World Bank, the international poverty-alleviating organization owned by 185 member countries.  Zoellick succeeds Paul Wolfowitz in the position.

Zoellick's challenge is to guide the World Bank in its mandate to help the world's poor. He brings much experience, having most recently served as deputy secretary of state and U.S. trade representative. Previously, he was executive vice president of Fannie Mae, deputy assistant secretary in the Treasury Department, vice chairman, international, of Goldman Sachs Group, and managing-director and chairman of Goldman Sach's Board of International Advisors. Zoellick has worked to alleviate the effects of a number of crises, from reconstruction efforts in Indonesia after the 2004 tsunami to increasing security and advocating for peace in Darfur.

Zoellick graduated from the Kennedy School and the Harvard Law School in 1981. Over the years, he has spoken frequently at the Kennedy School and Belfer Center, most recently in March 2006, when he presented "The Future of U.S. Foreign Policy" at a John F. Kennedy, Jr. Forum, spoke at a Belfer Center directors' lunch, and participated in a student session. As a fellow, he worked closely with Center Director Graham Allison and Charles Warren Professor of American History Ernest May, who provided direction for hisresearch into the policies and practices of early 20th century secretaries of state.

"Graham Allison has created a center that draws together cutting-edge research, leavened and tested by experienced practitioners, and challenged and freshened by up-and coming students at various phases of their careers," Zoellick said. "Then Graham adds his special contribution of supportive friendship for all who take part in the Belfer Center community."

Allison too praises Zoellick's commitment to service. "Bob Zoellick is, to paraphrase Gilbert and Sullivan, the very model of a modern American public servant," Allison said. "Bob's combination of analytic skills, strategic insight, political savvy, and solid values are a vivid reminder of what we are trying to do here."

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