Intelligence and National Security Alliance

The Intelligence and National Security Alliance (INSA) is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization based in Arlington, Virginia, that aims to foster collaboration among the public, private, and academic sectors concerning intelligence and national security issues. Established in 1979, INSA serves as a platform for professionals in these fields to engage and promote innovative solutions to national security challenges.

History

INSA was originally founded as the Security Affairs Support Association (SASA) to unite professionals primarily focused on the National Security Agency (NSA) and to facilitate ongoing discussions regarding the intelligence community's evolving landscape. In 2014, SASA transitioned to its current name, Intelligence and National Security Alliance, reflecting its broader commitment to national security.

Organizational Structure

As a nonpartisan and membership-driven organization, INSA consists of nearly 175 member organizations, including government entities, private corporations, and academic institutions. The organization operates without government funding, relying instead on membership fees, sponsorships, and program service revenues.

Key Initiatives

DOD SkillBridge Fellowship

INSA has formed an official partnership with the United States Department of Defense (DOD) through its SkillBridge Program, allowing transitioning service members to gain valuable work experience within the organization starting in 2022.

Awards and Recognition

INSA recognizes exceptional contributions to the intelligence community through various awards:

• William Oliver Baker Award: Established in 1984 to honor significant achievements in the intelligence sector, named after its first recipient.

• Achievement Awards: Launched in 2010, this program includes several categories, such as the Richard J. Kerr Government Award and the Sidney D. Drell Academic Award, acknowledging outstanding individuals across different sectors.

Annual Events

INSA hosts the Intelligence and National Security Summit, a significant event co-sponsored with the Armed Forces Communications & Electronics Association (AFCEA). This summit gathers leaders to discuss collaborative solutions for emerging national security challenges.

Research and Publications

INSA is affiliated with the Intelligence and National Security Foundation, which raises funds to support scholarships and programming for students pursuing careers in the intelligence and national security fields. Additionally, the organization publishes reports and white papers addressing pressing issues such as cyber threats and workforce development in the intelligence community.

Leadership

The current president of INSA is Suzanne Wilson Heckenberg, who plays a critical role in guiding the organization toward fulfilling its mission of enhancing public-private collaboration in the field of national security.

Through its multifaceted approach, INSA continues to influence the discourse on national security and intelligence, providing its members with the tools, resources, and networks necessary for addressing contemporary challenges.