W. Robert Pearson, a distinguished diplomat and seasoned NGO leader, has an impressive professional background that spans over three decades. He has served at the highest levels of the U.S. Government, leading and managing large organizations in various national and international appointments. Pearson's expertise lies in international relations, diplomacy, negotiation, and crisis management. He has written extensively on foreign policy, Turkey's relations with the EU, Russia, the Middle East, and Central and East Asia. He's widely recognized for his work in the NGO community, where he's championed development, technology, gender and youth empowerment, and conflict mitigation.

Pearson earned a BA from Vanderbilt University, with a major in Political Science, Economics, and French. He later graduated from the University of Virginia School of Law with an LLB in International Law. Pearson's diplomatic career took off and saw him work in various posts, including as Director General of the Foreign Service, where he was responsible for State Department civilian and Foreign Service personnel worldwide.

In 2008, Pearson was appointed as the President of the International Research & Exchanges Board (IREX), a global organization that focuses on education, independent media, and civil society development. He oversaw the expansion of IREX's programs and budget to a record 125 countries during his tenure. Pearson is currently a Non-Resident Scholar at the Middle East Institute, where he focuses on Turkey with a particular emphasis on U.S.-Turkey relations.

Pearson is a seasoned commentator on international relations and diplomacy, including on issues affecting NGOs, development, and large organizations. He's a prolific writer who's published numerous articles, blogs, and opinion pieces. Pearson's exceptional diplomacy skills, crisis management and negotiation practice, NGO leadership, and vast experience make him a valuable asset in any organization.