Intelligence Studies Advisory Board (ISAB)
Rooted in Mercyhurst University’s mission to educate and inspire individuals within a culture where faith, reason, and values-based leadership thrive, the Intelligence Studies Advisory Board (ISAB) serves as a vital bridge between the university’s academic community and the continually evolving intelligence profession. The ISAB strengthens Mercyhurst’s legacy as a national leader in applied intelligence education by championing ethical decision-making, innovative problem-solving, as well as cutting-edge collection and analysis, while fostering a commitment to the common good across intelligence, cybersecurity, and global security fields.
The ISAB’s mission is to connect academia, industry, and government to ensure that Mercyhurst’s Applied Intelligence programs remain responsive to the evolving demands of national and global security, while proactively addressing emerging concerns in cybersecurity, economic security, health security, environmental security, and related domains. Through expert guidance, mentorship, and strategic collaboration, the ISAB helps prepare students to think critically, act ethically, and lead effectively in service to their communities and the world.
About the ISAB
The ISAB supports Mercyhurst University’s nationally recognized Applied Intelligence programs, housed within the School of Intelligence, Computing, and Global Politics programs.
Building on Mercyhurst’s pioneering role as the first university in the United States to offer a degree in Intelligence Studies, the ISAB plays a central role in ensuring that the curriculum, research, and professional preparation of students remain aligned with the evolving needs of employers and global security landscape.
The ISAB serves as a working, program-focused body dedicated to strengthening applied learning, workforce readiness, and career pathways for both undergraduate and graduate students in Applied Intelligence. ISAB members provide insight into industry trends, offer feedback on curriculum and experiential learning, and help expand opportunities for internships, mentorship, and professional networking.
Membership on the ISAB is open annually to any Mercyhurst University Applied Intelligence program alumni, employer partner, or industry professional interested in supporting the next generation of intelligence practitioners.
Purpose and Value
The ISAB provides timely insight and actionable guidance that help Mercyhurst:
- Align curriculum with current and evolving real-world industry and government needs.
- Assist with the integration of various disciplines and industries that may be contributors and consumers of applied intelligence products and reports to support risk assessment and resilience.
- Support student internships, mentorship, and career placement.
- Support the recruiting, retention, and fundraising efforts of the program to support student activities, such as research and conference presentations.
- Identify emerging trends in data, technology, and global affairs as they impact applied intelligence and applied intelligence research.
- Strengthen partnerships with employers, agencies, research institutions, not-for-profits, and alumni.
- Enhance the university’s visibility and reputation as a center of applied intelligence excellence since 1992.
The ISAB also supports advancement initiatives—funding scholarships, student awards, and experiential opportunities that prepare Mercyhurst graduates for success in service to community and country.
Ted Stanich
Executive Director, Department of Intelligence Studies