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Bret Schafer
Senior Fellow and Head of the Information Manipulation Team - Alliance for Securing Democracy at the German Marshall Fund
Professional Background
Bret Schafer is an accomplished social media analyst and communications officer at the Alliance for Securing Democracy, where he employs his extensive knowledge of public diplomacy and communications to address modern challenges in digital communications and computational propaganda. With a passion for using technology to foster dialogue and understanding in an increasingly complex digital landscape, Bret has made a significant impact in his field.
Before joining the German Marshall Fund (GMF), Bret accumulated over a decade of rich experience in the television and film industry, where he honed his skills in media creation and communications. His diverse roles spanned from working with major networks like Cartoon Network to taking on freelance writing projects for Warner Brothers. This extensive background in creative production provided him a unique lens through which to analyze how narratives and information are disseminated across different media platforms.
In addition to his professional endeavors in the media landscape, Bret has a global footprint with experiences that stretch across Europe and Russia. He served as a radio host in Budapest, shared his passion for the sport as a semi-professional baseball player in Berlin's Bundesliga, and gained invaluable experience interning with the U.S. Embassy in Moscow within the Public Affairs Section. Each opportunity has deepened his understanding of international relations, cultural diplomacy, and the importance of effective communication.
Education and Achievements
Bret Schafer's education reflects his dedication to mastering the intersection of communications and diplomacy. He earned a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Radio/Television/Film from the prestigious Northwestern University, where he built a solid foundation in multimedia storytelling and production. This undergraduate program equipped him with the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of modern communications.
To further his expertise, Bret pursued a Master of Public Diplomacy at the University of Southern California, focusing on international relations and communications. This advanced degree has been fundamental in shaping his approach to analyzing political narratives and the role of social media in bolstering public diplomacy efforts.
His insights into computational propaganda have led to features in high-profile publications such as the New York Times, USA Today, the Wall Street Journal, and the Los Angeles Times. Bret is also regularly sought after for his expertise, lending his voice to discussions broadcasted on notable platforms like NPR, PBS, and BBC Radio. This consistent recognition highlights his authority in understanding how digital communication trends can influence public perception and policy.
Notable Contributions and Professional Affiliations
Bret has held various roles, each contributing to his expansive knowledge and skill set. He was formerly a Senior Fellow at the German Marshall Fund of the United States, where he conducted in-depth research on topics at the intersection of digital technology and diplomacy. As a Research Assistant at the USC Center on Public Diplomacy, he further developed his understanding of the vital role effective communication plays in fostering international relationships.
His leadership capabilities shone through his tenure as the Editor-in-Chief at Public Diplomacy Magazine, where he directed content that informs and educates audiences about the significance of diplomacy in today’s interconnected world. Bret has also contributed as a public affairs intern at the U.S. Department of State, gaining firsthand experience in governmental communication strategies.
Bret’s strong storytelling abilities are complemented by his creative background in the entertainment industry. He served as a Development Producer at Citizen Skull Productions and was a Shorts Programmer at the American Film Institute (AFI). His production experience has informed his understanding of narrative construction and audience engagement, skills that are vital in today’s media landscape.
As an Agent Assistant at Broder Webb Chervin Silbermann Agency and as a Producer’s Assistant at Touchstone Television, Bret gained insight into the workings of media production, enhancing his abilities to assess how content can shape societal narratives. In addition, his stint as a Development Assistant at Cartoon Network allowed him to bridge his creative talents with his analytical skills.
Bret’s versatility is reflected in his entrepreneurial endeavors as a Freelance Copywriter, where he expressed his creativity through writing while maintaining his presence in the media industry. He has also worked on his projects as a screenwriter, showcasing his talent for creating compelling narratives across various formats.
Overall, Bret Schafer’s diverse career and robust educational background position him as a leader in the realm of public diplomacy and computational propaganda. His unique combination of industry experience, academic knowledge, and international exposure allows him to navigate the intricate interplay of media, communication, and global diplomacy with great expertise, making him a key voice in discussions surrounding these crucial issues.
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