Kris Hart, the accomplished junior who now fills the position of Student Association President, served in the GW Program for International Development through the IAS. The ultra-motivated Hart chose to participate well before his election to his new position as the GW Student Association President.

“The IAS moves at the speed of light on campus,” described Hart. The IAS at GW boasts several successful programs promote an awareness of international affairs. Hart believes the group plays an important role keeping students involved culturally and politically.

Unfortunately, due to the numerous daily pressures of being SA President, Hart has not been able to devote the time to maintaining his prior level of participation in the IAS. Regardless of this, Hart has no shortage of praise for the both the IAS and the events that it regularly sponsors.

“The IAS is by far one of the most active and organized groups on campus,” said Hart.

Certainly, Kris Hart is uncharacteristic of most Student Association presidents, most of whom have historically been seniors. Hart took advantage of leadership opportunities available to GW students right away. During his freshman year, he became a leader of the GWU Program for International Education, or GWUPIE, which educates middle school students about international affairs and Model United Nations programs and events.

“GWUPIE is renowned around the metropolitan DC area,” said Hart about the outreach program.

As a sophomore last year, Hart served as Under Secretary General for the GW Conference of International Affairs. The program gave Hart another opportunity to share his knowledge of international affairs with area students.

“It is great to see the excitement in the students’ eyes when they get to debate,” Hart raved. “I wish at 14 I had that kind of experience. I won’t miss (the opportunity to volunteer) this year, no matter how busy I am.”

Hart has also worked to motivate DC Metro area high school students to become involved and informed in international affairs by volunteering for the IAS-sponsored Washington Area Model UN Conference.

Hart sees more in working with the IAS than just a long list of accomplishments and personal successes. From his perspective, the greatest benefit of his experience with IAS has been the close personal connections he has made with many of its members. “You definitely meet some of the most dynamic, enthused, well-rounded people,” he said. “I’m glad to call them my friends.”