About the Founder and Former Executive Director

BONNIE D. JENKINS

FOUNDER AND FORMER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, 2017-2021

Ambassador Bonnie D. Jenkins founded Women of Color Advancing Peace, Security, and Conflict Transformation (WCAPS) in 2017 to address the underrepresentation and isolation of women of color in peace and security fields. Under her leadership, WCAPS established programs, chapters, and mentorship initiatives to support and amplify the voices of women of color globally, focusing on peacebuilding, security, and conflict transformation. Jenkins' vision included creating role models for young girls of color, fostering leadership, and providing a lasting platform to sustain their engagement in these critical areas. Her efforts extended to founding initiatives like Redefining National Security and Organizations in Solidarity, emphasizing inclusion and representation.

In 2021, Jenkins became the first African American to serve as Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security, underscoring her role as a trailblazer in international security. With decades of experience in arms control, disarmament, and nonproliferation, she served as Ambassador and Special Envoy under President Obama, leading global threat reduction initiatives and championing diversity in foreign policy. Jenkins' extensive academic and professional background, including roles at the Brookings Institution and the Ford Foundation, showcases her commitment to fostering equity, security, and leadership at the highest levels.