The Middle East Policy Council announces that Ambassador Gina Abercrombie-Winstanley is stepping back from her position as president. In her time in this role, the ambassador brought a wealth of knowledge, strategic vision, and experience that expanded the Council’s reach and enhanced our reputation for innovative programming, amplifying new voices, and building strategic partnerships.
As a result of her leadership, the Council is in a stronger position to play an impactful role increasing knowledge and understanding in U.S.-MENA relations for the next 40 years. We extend our deepest appreciation for her service to the Middle East Policy Council, both as president and a member of the Board of Directors.
Ambassador Abercrombie-Winstanley has held senior positions in the U.S. government, including Ambassador to the Republic of Malta, Consul General in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Foreign Policy Advisor to the Commander of U.S. Cyber Forces, Deputy Coordinator for Counterterrorism and Director for the Office of Egypt and the Levant at the U.S. Department of State, and Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer at the U.S. Department of State. She now divides her time among serving on the National Security Education Board, as a Senior Nonresident Fellow at the Atlantic Council, and as a Senior Advisor at West Executive Advisors. She will add to these roles volunteer work in support of the upcoming national election.
The Council is also pleased to announce that Chairwoman of the Board Jasmine Zaki has taken on the responsibility of interim president. Ms. Zaki brings a wealth of experience as a former MENA commercial advisor for multiple international law firms, and most recently served as Senior Counsel at Bechtel. She now holds the position of Managing Partner at Ballard Partners. The rest of MEPC’s leadership team continues to provide the same stellar support to the Council’s programs and plans.
