The recent Russia-Georgia conflict has all the hallmarks of a typical energy war, according to Strauss Fellow Michael Webber in an Austin American-Statesman opinion piece on August 17. Russia's emergence as an energy-producing powerhouse has put America and the European Union in a difficult position with regards to this current conflict.

On May 16, 2008, University of Texas head football coach Mack Brown was honored at a dinner benefiting the Mack Brown Distinguished Chair for Leadership in Global Affairs, which is part of The Robert S. Strauss Center for International Security and Law. Penn State head coach Joe Paterno gave the keynote address, NFL Hall of Fame wide receiver Lynn Swann served as the emcee and former UT coach Darrell Royal attended.

In a night that included legendary names in the world of college football, Texas head coach Mack Brown was honored with The Mack Brown Distinguished Chair for Leadership in Global Affairs at a dinner at the Four Seasons Hotel in Austin on Friday.

A gift from Mrs. Eleanor Crook to the Robert S. Strauss Center for International Security and Law at The University of Texas at Austin will create an endowed chair dedicated to promoting global economic development and fighting poverty.