Abigail Linnington

Abigail Linnington is a Professor of the Practice of International Security and Associate Dean of Curriculum at The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University. She holds a PhD (2013) and MA (2004) from Fletcher, and a BS in International Relations from the United States Military Academy at West Point (1995).

Research & Teaching: Specializes in U.S. national security policy, military strategy, and civil-military relations. Teaches courses on national security decision-making, grand strategy, civil resistance, and security sector reform. Awarded the 2022 James L. Paddock Teaching Award for excellence in instruction.

Professional Background: Retired U.S. Army Colonel with 25 years of service as a military strategist and aviator. Key roles include Special Assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (2016–2018), advisor to the U.S. Army Chief of Staff (2012–2014), and deployment to Afghanistan (2010–2011). Decorated with the Defense Superior Service Medal (twice), Legion of Merit, and Bronze Star Medal.

Grants & Recognition: Recipient of the 2021–2022 Bradley Fellowship. Honored with the 2017 Tufts Alumni Distinguished Achievement Award. Served on advisory boards for DEPLOY/US (2021–present) and participated in MIT’s Seminar XXI (2013–2014).

Labs & Teams: Active in the International Security Studies Program at Fletcher. Collaborates with institutions like the Institute for National Strategic Studies (NDU) and the Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy.