Cassandra McClellan is an international security researcher and business development professional. A graduate of Elon University (BA: International Studies, Political Science), she authored research on the security posture of Pakistan and counterterrorism capabilities in Yemen against al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula. For over five years, she has worked for leading policy research organizations, consulting firms, and start-up companies in the national security field, frequently on behalf of the US government, military, and international organizations.

Cassandra has studied and worked across the Middle East, including in Amman, Jordan and Cairo, Egypt, and brings her knowledge of the region and the Arabic language to support analytic and policy efforts in counterterrorism, counter-messaging, and preventing radicalization to violent extremism, especially with regard to the Islamic State and al-Qaeda. She is furthermore interested in post-conflict reconstruction efforts and legal frameworks regarding migration and refugees. Ms. McClellan is also a skilled business development associate, utilizing her insights into government contracting to assist firms with securing new business opportunities through capture and project management.