The Marshall Center bid farewell to Sandra Oudkirk, associate director, July 18, 2025 after immeasurable benefit to not just the organization, but those she met along the way.
Oudkirk’s next assignment is at U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) as the incoming foreign policy advisor to U.S. Air Force Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, USEUCOM commander.
"I could not think of a better way to have prepared myself for this position of responsibility at European Command than to have spent the year here in Garmisch getting to know our Allies and partners across the European theater, understanding their concerns and their goals with regard to working with us, as the United States and our European partners work to build a European-led defense," Oudkirk said.
Over the past year, Oudkirk played a pivotal role in shaping the Marshall Center’s direction, helping bridge institutional transitions and elevate dialogue on the future of European-led deterrence and defense.
Her leadership during the 2025 Senior Executive Seminar marked a defining moment—not just as her final contribution, but as a springboard for the Marshall Center’s renewed strategic vision.
"I'd like to say thank you. It has been wonderful working here. It's been wonderful living here. I have learned a lot from each and every one of my coworkers, both American and German, and I hope to be back frequently."