Who We Are
The McCain Institute is a nonpartisan organization inspired by Senator John McCain and his family’s dedication to public service. We are part of Arizona State University and based in Washington, D.C. Our programs defend democracy, advance human rights, and empower character-driven leaders. Our unique power to convene leaders across the global political spectrum enables us to make a real impact on the world’s most pressing challenges. Our goal is action, not talk, and like Senator McCain, we are fighting to create a free, safe, and just world for all.
Our Mission
Inspired by the legacy of Senator John McCain and his family, the McCain Institute fights for democracy, human dignity, and security.
Our Vision
A world that is free, safe, and just for all people
Senator John McCain built a legacy on making progress in the face of adversity. Steadfast in his principles and beliefs, Senator McCain approached every problem by seeking common ground with the other side. “Our political differences, no matter how sharply they are debated, are really quite narrow,” McCain famously stated, “in comparison to the remarkably durable national consensus on our founding convictions.” The McCain Institute at Arizona State University honors Senator McCain’s example, working in the arena with local and global groups in a nonpartisan fashion to convene, educate, and act to benefit all Americans and the world we share.
The McCain Institute is inspired by the legacy of Senator McCain, his family, and their commitment to advancing American principles of democracy and human rights and empowering character-driven leaders. The McCain Institute’s programs build on Senator McCain’s drive to turn ideas into action and action into impact. As a part of the country’s most innovative university, the McCain Institute includes and benefits diverse groups across the globe through nonpartisan programs and initiatives–bringing Arizona to Washington and the world to Arizona.
Three Pillars
Programs of the McCain Institute at Arizona State University are based on three core pillars that Senator John McCain championed his entire life and designed to maximize effectiveness, reach and impact.
Defending Democracy
Advancing Human Rights
Empowering Character-Driven Leaders
Our Impact
The McCain Institute’s signature annual event, the Sedona Forum, as well as quarterly Sedona Forum Live digital events, bring leading voices from around the world together to discuss the pressing issues relating to the McCain Institute’s core programs. Held in the red rocks of Sedona, Ariz., the forum provides a unique opportunity for leaders from around the world to have face-to-face discussions about real solutions to the problems facing the globe.
Our Strategy
Direct Action
Constructive Engagement
Convening Experts
Developing Young Leaders
Advocating for Change
Championing His Causes
In partnership with Cindy McCain and the McCain family, our mission is to uphold the values Sen. John McCain committed his life to through action.
From our roots,
we rise to the occasion
The McCain Institute stands proudly as a testament to our namesake, Senator John McCain. His lifetime of service and commitment to character-driven leadership is the foundation of our work. With the support of Cindy McCain, Chairman Emeritus, we look to his past to guide our future.
Calling
Arizona Home
The McCain Family has long called Arizona home, and the partnership with ASU, one of the world’s largest research universities, offers unique advantages. By drawing upon ASU’s world-class students, faculty, institutions and facilities, the McCain Institute helps bring Arizona to Washington, and the world to Arizona.
Our Team
Get In Touch
ASU Barrett & O’Connor Center
Suite 600
Washington, DC, 20006
