Scanlon to Assume Presidency January 1, 2027, as John P. Walters Concludes Nearly 17 Years of Leadership
WASHINGTON—June 15, 2026, Hudson Institute’s Board of Trustees today announced the appointment of Executive Vice President Joel Scanlon as the Institute’s next President and CEO, effective January 1, 2027. He succeeds John P. Walters, who will conclude nearly 17 years of leadership at Hudson, including five as President and CEO, when he steps down at the end of 2026.
“John Walters has been a transformational leader,” said Sarah Stern, President of Hudson’s Board of Trustees. “Under his stewardship, Hudson’s scholarship, influence, and reach have grown dramatically, and the Board is deeply grateful for his remarkable service. In Joel Scanlon, we have found a bold leader with a clear vision for Hudson’s next chapter. Joel has been indispensable to Hudson’s growth and success for more than a decade. He combines strategic ambition, exceptional leadership, and a deep commitment to our mission, and the Board is excited about where he will take us.”
Joel Scanlon has served in senior leadership roles since joining Hudson in 2014. As Executive Vice President, he has helped direct the Institute’s strategic growth, working closely with Hudson’s experts, trustees, and supporters to expand its impact on the defining policy debates of our time. Before joining Hudson, Scanlon served in the White House under President George W. Bush, including as deputy assistant to the president and director of strategic initiatives. He began his career in Washington as a research assistant to the late Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and commentator Charles Krauthammer.
“I am honored by the confidence the Board has placed in me,” said Scanlon. “I have benefited tremendously from John Walters’s leadership and mentorship and remain deeply appreciative of Ken Weinstein’s support and friendship over the years. Hudson’s mission has never been more urgent. I look forward to building on a remarkable foundation and working with my colleagues to expand Hudson’s impact on the debates around the most important challenges facing America and our allies.”
“Leading Hudson Institute has been an honor,” said Walters. “I am deeply grateful to our trustees, experts, staff, supporters, and friends for helping build an Institute that strengthens America and our allies. I am especially pleased that the Board has selected Joel Scanlon as the next President and CEO. Joel is a wise, principled, and tireless leader, and I know he will build on Hudson’s strengths and lead the Institute to even greater success.”
Walters will continue to serve as President and CEO through December 31, 2026, working closely with Scanlon and the Board to ensure a seamless transition.
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