Brumley Next Generation Senior Fellow Briefs John O. Brennan on Interactive Database Tracking Islamic State Activity

Brumley Next Generation Senior Fellow Annika Rettstadt had the opportunity to discuss her thesis research with ISP Senior Advisor and former CIA Director John O. Brennan during his most recent visit to The University of Texas at Austin.

A third year dual-degree student at the LBJ School of Public Affairs and UT’s Center for Middle Eastern Studies, Rettstadt’s graduate career has focused on counterterrorism efforts in Europe. 

During the briefing, Rettstadt discussed the interactive database she designed in an effort to better understand shifts in Islamic State activity in the West. The user-friendly platform will allow the public to interact with and interpret this information. Following the meeting, Rettstadt reported that Mr. Brennan was pleased with the database, and provided specific recommendations and guidance to enhance the final research product.