WASHINGTON – The Iván Duque Center for Prosperity and Freedom, alongside The Wilson Center, is proud to announce its first distinguished fellow, Ambassador William R. Brownfield. Holding the personal rank of Career Ambassador, the highest rank in the US Foreign Service, Ambassador Brownfield served as US Ambassador to Colombia (2007-2010), Venezuela (2004-2007), and Chile (2002-2004). After serving as an ambassador, Ambassador Brownfield was also the Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.

“The Iván Duque Center advances leadership in liberty and private enterprise-driven solutions while examining security matters that impact foreign policy objectives,” said Ambassador Mark A. Green, Wilson Center President and CEO. “Ambassador Brownfield has dedicated his life to these principles.”

“As migrants, drugs, trade, and investment generate new challenges throughout the Americas, the Iván Duque Center will play a key role in bridging to the future,” said Ambassador Brownfield. “We look to be a source of creative thinking, fresh ideas, and open dialogue for all responsible nations of the Western Hemisphere.”

As one of the Wilson Center’s newest additions to its mission, the Iván Duque Center educates policymakers about the crucial role of the Western Hemisphere for both the US and the world. Its main pillars are fostering economic growth by harnessing private enterprise, strengthening supply chains, and supporting democratic values. 

“Ambassador William Brownfield is one of the most distinguished diplomats of the United States,” said President Duque. “His extensive experience in Colombia, Venezuela, Chile, and numerous other missions, along with his key roles in the State Department, makes him a person who combines the pragmatism of policymaking with the idealism of working for a more dynamic integration within the international community. It’s an honor for the Iván Duque Center to welcome Ambassador Brownfield as its first distinguished fellow."

Ambassador Brownfield has received the Secretary of State’s Distinguished Service Award and the Presidential Performance Award three times. He is a graduate of Cornell University (1974) and the National War College (1993). In his home state of Texas, he attended the University of Texas School of Law (1976-1978).

Notes to editors:

1. The Wilson Center is a Congressionally chartered scholarship institution and part of the Smithsonian Institution. It provides nonpartisan, independent analysis of foreign policy developments, particularly their impact on American leadership and global engagement.