Jason M. Blazakis is a seasoned national security expert with over two decades of experience in digital extremism, sanctions, counterterrorism, foreign policy, and intelligence. He played a pivotal role in shaping U.S. and UN counterterrorism policies, particularly during his tenure as Director of the Office of Counterterrorism Finance at the U.S. Department of State, where he sanctioned over 500 individuals and groups and managed the State Sponsor of Terrorism portfolio. His work significantly impacted U.S. efforts to impose sanctions on countries like Iran, North Korea, Syria, and Sudan.

Currently, Blazakis serves as a Professor of the Practice at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies and the Director of the Center on Terrorism, Extremism, and Counterterrorism (CTEC). Under his leadership, CTEC has raised over $10 million and expanded its staff significantly since 2019. He teaches courses on terrorism, counterterrorism, sanctions, and intelligence, and is under contract for two terrorism-related books. Blazakis also consults internationally, providing training on terrorism financing and targeted financial sanctions to various governments, including those in Nigeria, Jordan, and Ukraine.

Blazakis's extensive academic and professional background is complemented by his work as President and CEO of Riptide Threat Mitigation Group, Senior Advisor at The Soufan Group, and Senior Research Fellow at The Soufan Center. He has published numerous articles on national security issues in outlets such as The Hill, Lawfare, and Foreign Affairs, and frequently contributes to discussions on national security and terrorism. Blazakis holds a Master of International Affairs from Columbia University, a Master of Government from Johns Hopkins University, and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Mississippi.