The Middle East Institute (MEI) is deeply saddened by the passing of William H. Webster, a distinguished former member of our Board of Governors and longtime Governor Emeritus.
Judge Webster’s career in public service was marked by an extraordinary breadth of leadership — as the only American to have served as director of both the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Central Intelligence Agency, as well as chairman of the Homeland Security Advisory Council. His decades of service also included dedicated military service in both World War II and the Korean War, and he was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the National Security Medal.
Throughout his career, Judge Webster led with integrity, wisdom, and a steadfast commitment to the rule of law and national security. His counsel and contributions to MEI reflected the same dedication, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who strive for principled leadership.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues as we honor his remarkable life and service.
The Middle East Institute (MEI) is an independent, non-partisan, non-for-profit, educational organization. It does not engage in advocacy and its scholars’ opinions are their own. MEI welcomes financial donations, but retains sole editorial control over its work and its publications reflect only the authors’ views. For a listing of MEI donors, please click here.