Dans une interview donnée à la revue Chronicle of Philanthropy le 28 mai 2009, Bob Steele insiste sur la contribution de l’Institut Aspen à la réflexion sur le monde de l’après-crise… « While we will emerge from this crisis stronger than ever, there are clearly many lessons that must be learned. For example, there are very important questions about governance, leadership, and regulation that need to be explored. We believe that the Aspen Institute can be an important convener and leader in discussion, evaluation, and shaping an improved public policy for the future. »… tout en mettant l’accent sur l’équilibre financier de l’organisation : « Boards need to always be diligent but especially in these times. They must strive to improve their role as stewards by constantly monitoring revenues and expenses and adopt solid contingency plans that would give others confidence in their organizations’ governance and operations. » Parmi les activités de l’Institut Aspen, Bob Steele met particulièrement en avant l’importance du « Aspen Global Leadership Network » qui rassemble 1000 personnalités émergentes venues du monde entier et ayant participé, au cours des dix années passées, aux séminaires de leadership de l’Institut Aspen.