Maeve Whelan-Wuest

Maeve Whelan-Wuest is a seasoned program manager at the National Democratic Institute (NDI) focused on enhancing governance and political involvement in Asia.

With a background in researching policy and political reform efforts in Taiwan and Hong Kong at the Brookings Institution's Center for East Asia Policy Studies, Maeve brings a wealth of experience to her current role.

Having also served as a Foreign Policy Fellow for U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono and lived in Asia for various research and media projects, Maeve has a diverse professional background.

Maeve holds a Master's degree in International Affairs from the School of Global Policy and Strategy at the University of California, San Diego, where she co-founded China Focus and led the Journal of International Policy Studies as editor-in-chief.

Her academic journey includes a Bachelor's degree from Middlebury College in Geography and Chinese, alongside studies in Mandarin Chinese and a semester at NOLS Rocky Mountain Fall Program.

Throughout her career, Maeve has held positions ranging from Senior Program Officer to Research Intern at notable organizations such as the National Democratic Institute, the Brookings Institution, and the International Crisis Group.

Her multifaceted experience also includes roles in media production, community outreach, grassroots marketing, and leadership positions at various student and non-profit organizations.

Originally from Chicago, Maeve's passion for global policy and international affairs was ignited during her studies at Middlebury College and continues to drive her impactful work today.