Stuart Piltch Award for National Security Opens Applications to Foster Critical Thinking Among Undergraduates

The Stuart Piltch Award for National Security, a new academic initiative, is now accepting applications from undergraduate students across the United States. This award, established by Stuart Piltch, a renowned thought leader in the fields of technology and national security, seeks to encourage students to delve into the complexities of how emerging technologies influence national security. The initiative is designed to stimulate critical thinking and innovative problem-solving among the nation's future leaders.

Applicants are required to submit a 1,000-word essay addressing the prompt: National security is evolving at the pace of technology. They must choose an emerging technological advancement, such as artificial intelligence or quantum computing, and discuss its implications for national security, including potential threats and strategies to mitigate those risks while safeguarding civil liberties. The deadline for submissions is November 15, 2025, with the winner announced on December 15, 2025.

The award emphasizes originality, critical analysis, and the practical application of ideas. Essays will be judged on their clarity, originality, argument structure, and relevance to current national security discussions. Stuart Piltch, with his extensive background in intelligence, technology, and national security, aims through this award to invest in young minds capable of anticipating future challenges and proposing human-centered solutions.

This initiative reflects Piltch's lifelong commitment to bridging the gap between emerging technologies and public good, fostering a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of national security. It is open to all undergraduate students enrolled in accredited programs across the United States, regardless of their geographical location. For more details on eligibility and submission guidelines, applicants are encouraged to visit the official website.