Early Life and Education
Born in southern Ontario, Susan Colbourn experienced a diverse upbringing, living in Canada, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand. Her global journey began early, exposing her to different cultures and sparking her curiosity about how the world works. This early exposure to international environments laid the foundation for her future pursuits in history and international relations.
Colbourn pursued her undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto, where she majored in history and international relations. She then advanced her education with a master’s degree from the London School of Economics and Political Science, specializing in the history of international relations, and followed that with a PhD in history from the University of Toronto. Her academic journey was further enriched by postdoctoral fellowships at Yale University’s International Security Studies.
Throughout her academic career, Colbourn has been profoundly influenced by her educators. As a professor, Colbourn understands the importance of an effective teacher. “Mr. Van Over, who taught my U.S. History class in grade 11, kindled my interest in history and encouraged me to pursue it,” she recalls. “At the University of Toronto, Margaret MacMillan made a huge impact on my academic trajectory. And my PhD supervisor Robert Bothwell has had a significant impact on how I think about the work of a historian, emphasizing the importance of clear, engaging writing.” In her work at Sanford, Colbourn hopes to emulate those that shaped her love for history.
Research and Expertise
As a historian specializing in post-World War 2 international affairs, Colbourn focuses on the European security order, the role of nuclear weapons, and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Her research addresses broad questions about security, strategy, and the evolution of global order. Currently, she is working on a comprehensive history of NATO from its founding in the late 1940s to the present day.
“All of these issues are central to how the United States has operated within the world since 1945 and remain critical to understanding our world,” she said. “I’m particularly interested in how historical events and interpretations influence current policy challenges.”
Her passion for historical research stems from her belief that understanding the past is crucial for grasping contemporary international politics. She vividly recalls the moment that solidified her decision to pursue research in the history of international affairs.
“I love being in archives, flipping through original documents, and starting to see little bits and pieces jump out at you. It’s a long process from there to a finished product like an article or a book, but those early discoveries are among the most enjoyable parts of being a historian.”
Joining the Sanford School of Public Policy
When joining Sanford in 2021 as the Associate Director of the Program in American Grand Strategy, Colbourn found a community dedicated to understanding the world and providing meaningful opportunities for students.
“Working at Sanford has allowed me to collaborate with students and develop unique learning experiences outside the classroom, particularly through the Program in American Strategy,” Colbourn said. “Sanford’s interdisciplinary environment is incredibly enriching. Collaborations with political scientists have encouraged me to ask new questions about my sources and take my work in different directions.”
One of the highlights of her role is organizing the annual international staff ride, a weeklong field trip that studies significant historical battles or campaigns. This immersive experience brings history to life, offering students a hands-on understanding of historical events.
Reflecting on a recent trip, Colbourn shares, “On our last staff ride to study the Cold War in Europe, we visited Berlin- Hohenschönhausen Memorial, a former Stasi prison. It was a powerful experience, especially when Anna Hallahan (MPP ’24) spoke from the perspective of a television presenter imprisoned there. It reminded us of what it meant to live through the Cold War in the German Democratic Republic.”
Personal Interests
Outside her academic pursuits, Colbourn has a passion for travel. She enjoys exploring new places and cultures, always seeking to expand her horizons. Her favorite destinations include Canada, London, and Paris, and she hopes to return to Australia and New Zealand soon.
Inspiring Future Historians
Colbourn’s rich background and dedication to historical research significantly contribute to the Sanford School’s mission. Her enthusiasm for teaching and her innovative approaches to learning continue to inspire students and colleagues alike. As she reflects on her journey, she offers advice to aspiring historians:
“Do it because you are genuinely interested in it, not because you expect some sort of return at the end. And be open-minded about where and how you might use the skills you develop studying history.”