Expert Bio

Maria-Stella Gatzoulis directs the Wilson Center’s outreach and education program in the Scholars and Academic Relations office. She creates events using Wilson Center experts and analysts who brief student and military groups visiting the Wilson Center. These events are informal, private briefings meant to give impartial and informed analysis on key topics in international affairs. They are also meant to inspire young people to enter the field and thus become future leaders.

Maria-Stella has nearly 25 years of event planning and international protocol experience. Prior to her current role, she served as Special Events Coordinator and lead expert on International Protocol at the Wilson Center. On a typical day, she interacted with and facilitated events for Heads of State, Members of Congress, and other high-level VIPs.  She also coordinated logistical and event support for over 1,200 meetings a year related to International Affairs.

She completed her undergraduate studies in Switzerland in International Political Studies, followed by a Master’s Degree in International Affairs from The American University in Washington, D.C. She also holds a Graduate Certificate in Event Management from George Washington University. She is fluent in Greek, French and Spanish. She was elected to the Board of Directors of Protocol Diplomacy International-Protocol Officers Association in 2020 for a 6-year term, and in 2022 she was the Co-Chair of the International Protocol Education Forum in San Antonio, Texas.