CNAS Board Member Avril Haines Selected as Director of National Intelligence

Washington, November 30, 2020—The Center for a New American Security congratulates Avril Haines, a member of the CNAS Board of Directors, on her selection by President-elect Biden as the next Director of National Intelligence. In this position she will lead the U.S. Intelligence Community and serve as advisor to the president on the most critical intelligence and national security matters.

CNAS CEO Richard Fontaine said: “Avril is one of the sharpest, most talented and hardest-working national security leaders around. She will be an exceptional leader of the Intelligence Community, and the IC will benefit enormously from her selection. On behalf of CNAS, I congratulate Avril on her appointment as Director of National Intelligence.”

Ms. Haines is one in a succession of former CNAS leaders who have served in key policy-making positions. She served as Deputy National Security Advisor from 2015-2017, and prior to this was Deputy Director of the Central Intelligence Agency. Avril began her service in the Obama administration as the NSC Legal Advisor and worked in the U.S. Senate.

“Avril combines so many talents it is hard to know where to start,” said Kurt Campbell, Chairman of CNAS’ Board of Directors. “She is an outstanding intellect, tireless worker, inspiring leader and skilled negotiator. Her breadth of knowledge is remarkable and she enjoys the full confidence of the President-elect. This is an outstanding choice for DNI.”

For media inquiries, contact Cole Stevens at [email protected] or call 202-695-8166.