A Welcome from the Commandant
Thank you for visiting the Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation on the web. Established when the National Defense Authorization Act for FY01 became law, WHINSEC provides professional education and training for civilian, military and law enforcement students from nations throughout the Western Hemisphere.
This site introduces you to WHINSEC's many dimensions, from its fine academic and training programs to its students and faculty. You can gain a greater understanding of our mission and dedication to promoting peace, democratic values, and respect for human rights through inter-American cooperation.
The rich diversity of our student body — about 1000-1700 a year — reinforces our efforts to address the future challenges of strengthening democracy in this region. Our commitment to Democracy, Ethics and Human Rights is demonstrated in every aspect of the WHINSEC program.
As you explore this Web site, you can learn the details of our courses. For students, check out the John B. and Elena Amos Library pages to learn more about this excellent reference, research, and information facility. The library's collection contains approximately 25,000 volumes, 90 percent in Spanish, addressing topics in the major disciplines of foreign affairs, national defense, human rights, and Latin American studies. You can even check out books via an interlibrary loan to your own library.
I invite you to check back often to see upcoming events or to get a look at our latest news. Don't hesitate to use the "Contact Us" button if you have any questions or comments you'd like to share. I look forward to hearing from you.
If you get the opportunity, we invite you come to our campus, meet our students and faculty, and see our programs in action. Please contact the Public Affairs Office for more information on setting up a visit.
Our motto is "Libertad, Paz y Fraternidad," which means Freedom, Peace, and Brotherhood. Together we will make a difference in the region … and the world.
Col. Glenn R. Huber, Jr., Commandant