Appointment at Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service
Richard Verma, who previously served as the U.S. Ambassador to India and Deputy Secretary of State, has joined Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service as the Dean’s Distinguished Ambassadorial Fellow. Operating within the institution’s Asian Studies program, Verma will teach a graduate seminar focusing on international affairs careers and current issues this fall, followed by an undergraduate course on U.S.-India relations slated for spring 2027. Alongside teaching and scholarship, he will actively engage with students and participate in public university events.
Distinguished Career in Government and Diplomacy:
Verma brings extensive diplomatic and public service experience to academia. He served as the U.S. Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources from 2023 to 2025 and previously headed the U.S. diplomatic mission as Ambassador to India. Earlier in his career, he held prominent roles including Assistant Secretary of State for Legislative Affairs and National Security Advisor to the Senate Majority Leader. Furthermore, he has served on elite panels such as the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board, the Secretary of State’s Foreign Affairs Policy Board, and the Weapons of Mass Destruction and Terrorism Commission.
Corporate Leadership and Educational Background:
In the private sector, Verma serves as the Chief Administrative Officer at Mastercard, where he oversees law, government affairs, policy, franchise, corporate security, and community functions, after previously working as Chief Legal Officer and Head of Global Public Policy. He is also a U.S. Air Force veteran decorated with the Meritorious Service Medal and the State Department’s Distinguished Service Award, and serves on the boards of the Ford Foundation and T. Rowe Price. Verma holds an impressive academic portfolio, including a doctorate in international relations from Georgetown University, a master of laws from Georgetown University Law Center, a law degree from American University, and a bachelor of science from Lehigh University.
