Washington, DC, May 12, 2025 — The Middle East Institute (MEI) is pleased to announce that Lucy Kurtzer-Ellenbogen has joined MEI as a Senior Fellow.
She brings over two decades of experience in Middle East policy, with a focus on Arab-Israeli relations. She previously served as the Director of the Israel, The Palestinian Territories, Egypt and the Levant Program at the US Institute of Peace, where she led initiatives on political, diplomatic, and civil society efforts related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and Arab-Israeli relations. She has worked with the US Department of State as an Arabic language specialist and served as a program officer for the Middle East Initiative at Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government.
"Lucy’s deep expertise in Arab-Israeli relations and her commitment to conflict resolution align perfectly with MEI's mission to foster understanding and dialogue in the Middle East," said MEI President Stu Jones. "Her addition strengthens our ability to provide nuanced analysis and promote peacebuilding efforts in the region. I am delighted that she is joining us."
Kenneth Pollack, Vice President for Policy, added, "Lucy’s extensive experience in both governmental and academic settings will be invaluable to our policy work. Her insights will enhance our research and engagement on one of the most enduring and complex conflicts in the Middle East."
Founded in 1946, the Middle East Institute (MEI) is America’s leading nonpartisan policy and cultural institute focused on the Middle East. Based in Washington, DC, and working at the intersection of policy, education, and culture, MEI is the leading convener of Middle East experts and officials, fostering dialogue between diverse stakeholders. Its experts provide cutting-edge analysis of a complex region, while its Arts and Culture Center promotes understanding and cultural diplomacy through the universal language of the arts. MEI’s Policy Center boasts a roster of leading regional experts, including former diplomats and US defense and security officials who provide decision makers with trusted analysis of the region’s challenges and identify opportunities to advance US national interests.