The University of Georgia’s Center for International Trade and Security, a global leader in strategic trade and international security education, has been named the Benson-Bertsch Center for International Trade and Security. The naming of the center, which is housed in the School of Public and International Affairs, honors the legacy of two leaders whose contributions have shaped the university, the Athens community and the broader world.
The naming was made possible through a generous gift from the Ed and Robin Benson Foundation in memory of Robin’s late husband, Howard Edsel “Ed” Benson, and in tribute to Gary Bertsch, the founding director of the center. This investment reflects Ed and Robin Benson’s lifelong commitment to service, education and global engagement.
“More than a generation ago, Dr. Bertsch put the University of Georgia on the map as a premier outlet for applied research on nuclear nonproliferation, export control and other sensitive, national security issues,” said Matthew Auer, SPIA dean. “Robin and Ed Benson recognized the value of this work long ago. Ms. Benson’s most recent, transformative investment enables the center to continue its vital educational, research and training programs in perpetuity.”
The April 29 naming ceremony drew faculty, alumni, community members and students to honor the contributions of these individuals and to celebrate a center that, for decades, has contributed to U.S. and global security education, training and policy analysis.
A legacy of leadership and service
Established in 1987 with the support of former U.S. Secretary of State Dean Rusk, the center has evolved into an internationally respected institution that empowers students and professionals to address complex global trade and security challenges. Through its research, policy engagement and interdisciplinary learning environment, the center prepares the next generation of leaders to shape a safer, more prosperous world. UGA’s department of international affairs collaborates with the center to operate the popular Master of International Policy degree program, whose graduates work in national security, energy security and human security roles inside and outside of government. Many other units on campus enrich curricular and co-curricular programming at the center, including the College of Engineering.
Gary Bertsch, a distinguished UGA faculty member for over 40 years, founded the center and led it to international prominence. Under his leadership, the center secured more than $50 million in external funding and influenced U.S. and global policy on nuclear nonproliferation and strategic trade. A University Professor Emeritus and recipient of the President’s Medal, Bertsch is also known for mentoring generations of students and for his deep commitment to both local and global community development.
Honoring Ed and Robin Benson
A native of Athens and proud alumnus of UGA, Ed Benson was a decorated World War II veteran, a civic leader and a champion of public service. From delivering Meals on Wheels into his 90s to leading the Rotary Club of Athens as its youngest district governor, Benson’s life was a testament to the Rotary motto: “Service Above Self.” He served in numerous leadership roles across the university, including on the UGA Foundation and Athletic Association boards, and was honored with multiple awards, including the Distinguished American Award and the UGA Alumni Association’s Family of the Year award.
His wife, Robin Benson, an accomplished higher education administrator, shares his passion for service and philanthropy. Together, they have contributed to making Athens a vibrant, inclusive community and supported initiatives that have elevated the University of Georgia on the national stage.
A new chapter for global engagement
The naming of the Benson-Bertsch Center advances SPIA’s reputation for excellence in security studies.
“Ms. Benson’s generous endowment truly elevates the center to the next level,” said Justin Conrad, the Gary K. Bertsch Director of the Benson-Bertsch Center for International Trade and Security and a professor of international affairs. “We are able to expand on the incredible opportunities provided to our students while honoring the legacy of this great institution. Ms. Benson has provided a solid foundation for the center’s future.”
The fund created through this gift will provide meaningful support for the Benson-Bertsch Center for International Trade and Security to strengthen its programs, respond to new opportunities and continue providing impactful learning and research experiences in the fields of international trade and security.
