Every year, it gratifies me when attendees to our annual conference tell me they learned more, discovered fresh ideas and perspectives, and were encouraged to dig deeper into areas that caught their interest at this event sponsored by Duke’s Law’sCenter on Law, Ethics and National Security (LENS).Amidst the number and breath of national security issues these days–and especially the clamor and cacophony of voices–we know that civil discourse and gathering together to learn and discuss concerns still matters.
In order to thoughtfully consider strategies and solutions in the evolving arena of national security, getting in the room with industry professionals and experts promotes critical thought and discussion. That’s just what happened when government attorneys, corporate and in-house lawyers, professors, law students, military JAGs and interested citizens came together for our 30th Annual Conference (February 28 and March 1). The LENS event is the largest conference held at Duke Law, and one of the largest of its kind in the country.
Speakers kept the attention of those attending with a wide range of national security topics such as cyber, domestic terrorism, military uses of AI, space law, business, the environment, biosecurity, rules of engagement, leadership, and ethics, all in a day and a half conference.
In relation to China, the foreign affairs constitution, and the rule of law, speakers gave attendees foundational and historical context while touching on current issues. A fun game engaged the group in learning principles and key points about the rule of law and ethics foundations.
Networking is also a key component of the at-capacity conference where people can cross generational and geographic and other lines to connect and forge relationships that strengthen their careers and community.
LENS Scholars
LENS Scholars 2025
Among those attending the LENS conference were 32 LENS Scholars from 27 law schools and educational entities who were handpicked by their professors locally and across the country.
“Beyond the knowledge gained, what made the experience even more special was the chance to meet so many incredible people—leaders who are truly making a difference every day. Their dedication to national security and their willingness to share their insights and experiences left a lasting impact on me. It was also a privilege to be part of such an engaged and dynamic group of LENS Scholars,” said Celestine Guerif, an LLM International Law Candidate at Stetson University of Law, and LENS 2025 Scholar.
Let’s hear what some other LENS Scholars had to say about the conference.
“As for its impact on me: four-star generals and defense experts don’t just roam the streets looking to have coffee chats with students. So as a first-generation American, being able to not just listen to but ask questions and directly engage with people who are such movers and shakers in a field I love and respect is an unparalleled experience.
Ms. Polupan
In the information age, clear and open communication with people who know what they’re talking about is the greatest resource of all, and it is also seemingly becoming scarcer every day. LENS’s dedication to increasing access to this kind of information and facilitating discussion is more critical now than ev er.” –Masha Polupan, University of Illinois College of Law, Class of 2026
“I came to law school with the express intent to re-enter the national security space as an attorney. However, before this conference, I did not have a clear picture of how to pursue that goal. Meeting fellow students with similar interests, leading subject matter experts, and attorneys with a wealth of experiences helped me see the wide range of available opportunities to develop my legal skills and contribute my future law degree for the benefit of our collective security and continued freedoms.”–Aislinn “Ais” Carroll, University of North Carolina School of Law, Class of 2027
…I found the speakers and networking opps to be outstanding. They were (1) informative and relevant to my present understanding of national security practice, (2) refreshed my motivation to lead from the front in this very important work, and (3) highlighted the breadth of opportunities available to me as I gain time in this profession…
I thought Mr. Zheng and Gen. McKenzie (incredible full circle moment for me) were the highlights, but I also immensely appreciated the AI panels that drew on present and future Pentagon strategy given that’s what I’ll be walking into here in a few months. Ms. Qadir’s biosecurity talk was also quite the listen. –Ryan Cleary, Moritz College of Law at The Ohio State University, Class of 2025
“This conference was an incredible opportunity as a student interested in pursuing a career in national security law. The ability to engage with practitioners, professors, and interested students was a unique way to learn about the various potential opportunities within the field of national security law…
“Each session was thoughtfully planned and contained content that made a significant impact on me. I appreciated learning about how historical gloss has helped shape national security law, the value of becoming a great writer, and different opportunities within the government for civilian attorneys.”McKenzie Arata, Texas A&M University School of Law
“The conference exceeded my expectations in every way. The panels and discussions provided invaluable insights into the complexities of national security law, and I left with a broader, yet specialized understanding of its many dimensions. I am more inspired than ever to continue my journey in national security law, and I am incredibly grateful for the exposure and connections that the LENS Scholar program provided.
One of the most meaningful takeaways from the conference was the reinforcement of my decision to pursue a career in the Navy JAG Corps. Meeting and speaking with individuals who have served or currently serve solidified my commitment to this path since I was able to hear about their firsthand experiences, challenges, and impact.
Beyond the sessions, the opportunity to connect with experts and peers was invaluable and I’ve come out with (what I suspect to be) lifelong friendships.” –Jacquelyn Deo, Emory University School of Law, J.D. Candidate, Class of 2026
LENS Ambassadors
LENS Ambassadors 2025
National Security Law Society (NSLS) co-presidents Katherine French and Jimmy Scoville led the Scholars and Ambassadors respectively. The Ambassadors were 22 Duke Law and Duke Public Policy handpicked students who not only supported the conference, they also connected with the Scholars, attendees and speakers. They were terrific representatives of Duke!!!
LENS Event Coordinators Becky Chapman and Bobbi Pabon, along with the Ambassadors, helped the conference run smoothly, and the entire team made an impression on speakers and attendees.
Ms. Carroll
LENS Scholar Aislinn Carroll’s note let me know she “gets it” when she said, “I**will be taking your closing comments about using our careers ‘to do something’ rather than just pursuing a goal ‘to be someone” to heart as I continue my legal education and career as a national security professional.”
Stay tuned!
If you missed the conference…we’ll roll out some conference presentations via video links onLawfire.
But some sessions aren’t recorded, so mark your calendar now to save the date for next year and see and hear them all! The 31th LENS Conference is scheduled for February 27-28, 2026. Hope to see you there!
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