Our Values
At IHS, we believe freedom and the marketplace of ideas create a better future—a future in which individuals are able to unleash their potential as they strive to build a more just, peaceful, and prosperous world. That future will be molded by intelligent, motivated people who are dedicated to individual liberty, the rule of law, limited government, spontaneous order, and tolerance.
The team at IHS is united by advancing its mission and by a culture dedicated to lifelong learning and responsible action. Our values drive the personal and professional fulfillment of all team members, and guide our daily decisions and efforts.
We Are Curious.
We value ideas and cherish the intellect. We strive for learning and growth and look to multiple sources, internally and externally. Because we are curious, we value opposing views and welcome both challenges and challenger alike. We understand that we never have “the answer” ourselves, and that humility and mutual respect are the key to personal success and the success of our mission.
We Are Accountable.
We commit to results, and measure them. We are solutions-oriented. We learn from failure, celebrate success, and take ownership of both. Because we are accountable, we commit ourselves to the pursuit of progress, and we are conscientious stewards of the trust and resources invested in us.
We Are Responsible.
We insist on personal integrity, lawful behavior, and open, honest communication within IHS and between IHS and outside organizations. We succeed by sharing knowledge, behaving ethically, and helping each other. We keep our promises, value transparency, and extend goodwill.
We Are Enterprising.
We have a bias for action. We are proactive, looking for opportunities to improve ourselves and our work, to fill gaps, to solve problems, and to support our colleagues and allies. We experiment with new approaches, learn and adapt best practices, and optimize roles based on individual strengths.
Our Relationship with George Mason University
IHS operates programs and engages faculty and students across the country, but we are also a strong local partner of George Mason University. The university is one of the top venues for IHS programs with leading scholars engaged in the most critical debates in academia and American society.
IHS hires more GMU alumni than graduates of any other university, and more than 90 IHS alumni have been hired by GMU.
GMU is a national leader in freedom of thought and expression in higher education. Our shared values make the university a natural fit for IHS. We are proud to be part of the Mason community.
