New councilmembers include former U.S. government official, former head of state, and private sector leader
WASHINGTON, D.C. (March 25, 2025) – The McCain Institute at Arizona State University is honored to welcome three new members to the McCain Global Leaders (MGL) Global Advisory Council. The council is comprised of 27 character-driven leaders from a variety of occupations and nations who play an integral role in shaping the design and implementation of the MGL program. The new members are:
- Abby Finkenauer, Former Congresswoman and Special Envoy for Youth
- Elbegdorj Tsakhia, Former President of Mongolia
- Matthew Swift, Co-Founder, President and CEO of Concordia
“The McCain Institute and McCain Global Leaders community are excited to welcome President Elbegdorj, Abby, and Matthew as new additions to the Global Advisory Council,” said Assistant Director for Global Leadership Scott Nemeth. “Since the launch of the McCain Global Leaders Program in 2021, we have had the benefit of having support from a diverse group of experts from a variety of fields. These advisors help shape the program and serve as incredible resources to participants, past and present. This year’s additions to the council will be invaluable to helping our leaders in the fight for democracy and human rights.”
“As a former U.S. congresswoman and U.S. special envoy for global youth issues, I’ve seen the courage of young leaders fighting for freedom, justice, and a future where democracy thrives. Senator McCain’s unwavering commitment to principle over politics and country over self has long been an inspiration to me,” said Finkenauer. “Now more than ever, we must stand with those who refuse to accept corruption, authoritarianism, and fear as the status quo. I look forward to working with the McCain Institute to uplift the next generation of changemakers who will lead with integrity, resilience, and an unshakable belief in the power of democracy.”
“Everyone must contribute to the global good. I believe that the McCain Global Leaders program enables promising leaders to expand their impact and their contribution to the global community,” said Tsakhia. “I am honored to join the McCain Institute as a Global Advisory Council member and look forward to sharing my experiences with young leaders around the world so that together, we can take on some of the most pressing challenges facing the global community.”
“I’m honored to join the McCain Institute’s Global Leaders Advisory Council. I am committed to working to engage with and amplify the inspiring voices that make up the Global Leaders Program. Initiatives like this are critical to fostering global collaboration,” said Swift.
The Global Advisory Council advises the McCain Institute on its flagship leadership program, McCain Global Leaders, in addition to serving as mentors and technical experts to each cohort of leaders. They do so by serving as lecturers during technical skills workshops, conducting one-on-one consultations, and joining in-person study tours in the United States and around the world. Additionally, they are partners with the McCain Institute and its network of leaders in identifying solutions to global challenges and threats facing democracy and human rights.
Learn more about the McCain Institute’s Global Leadership Program HERE.
About the McCain Institute at Arizona State University
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 freedom, 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.
About Arizona State University
Arizona State University has developed a new model for the American research university, creating an institution that is committed to access, excellence and impact. ASU measures itself by those it includes, not by those it excludes. As the prototype for a New American University, ASU pursues research that contributes to the public good, and ASU assumes major responsibility for the economic, social and cultural vitality of the communities that surround it.