Dean of the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs since 2002, Atwood has had a distinguished career in public service, having served as USAID Administrator from 1993 to 1999, Under Secretary of state for Management in 1993, and Assistant Secretary of State for Legislative Affairs from 1978 to 1980. He also was founding president of the National Democratic Institute of International Affairs (NDI) (1985 to 1993).