MSFS LEADERSHIP WELCOME
Dear MSFS Alumni,
In a time of continuous change at home and abroad, several things remain certain. The MSFS community is strong. It is highly motivated to take on global challenges. It also supports its members. Our alumni and faculty are actively engaging on issues in the United States and around the world. They are also assisting those whose careers and personal lives have been disrupted by recent events. In the following pages, you will hear about extraordinary engagements and adventures. You will also learn of MSFS Alumni helping other alumni and students to navigate disruptions created by recent turbulence in the United States and abroad.
We are in the process of welcoming the next cohort of MSFS students. Those who choose MSFS do so because of you. Your spirit, thoughts, and actions validate the reputation of our program that initially attracted them. You are inspirational models of what they will become.
Thank you for everything you do to make MSFS and the world better!
Warm regards,
George & Ashley
George Shambaugh
George Shambaugh MSFS Director
Ashley Lenihan
Ashley Lenihan MSFS Deputy Director
George Shambaugh Director
Ashley Lenihan Deputy Director
Ryan Arey Director of Admissions
Paul Miller
Global Politics & Security Co-Chair
Meg Gardinier Director of Academic & Faculty Affairs
Careena Manoukian Asst. Director of Admissions
Jodi Vittori
Global Politics & Security Co-Chair
Matt Wooten Asst. Director of Academic & Faculty Affairs
Maggie Collins Asst. Director of Operations
Joseph Helman
Global Politics & Security Co-Chair
Shantayanan Devarajan
International Development Chair
David Wallis
Global Business, Finance & Society Chair
Theresa Sabonis-Helf
Science, Technology, & International Affairs Chair
MSFS ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Reflections from MSFS Alumni Career Coaches
By Erin Winkler-McCue, Lindsay Lincoln, & Vijay Rajendran
The recent uncertainty in Washington has highlighted that a growing number of MSFS alumni are turning to executive coaching after successful careers in the public and private sectors.
This past February, Erin Winkler-McCue (MSFS ‘06) replied to a WhatsApp chat between a group of 2006 graduates, asking if anyone knew of a way for her to support MSFS graduates, who had been impacted by recent administration decisions, in her capacity as a coach. Word traveled quickly, and within a few weeks, Erin, Lindsay Lincoln (MSFS ‘06), and Vijay Rajendran (MSFS & MBA ‘07), all certified executive coaches, began offering one-on-one sessions to interested alumni.
The coaching initiative has since expanded, with additional alumni coaches extending their services to second-year students preparing for life after graduation this May. David E. Samso Aparici (MSFS ‘94), Rita Jupe (MSFS ‘98), and Karen Chopra (MSFS ‘86) have been involved with these efforts, joining a recent panel discussion to share career navigation tips.
It’s interesting to see how many alumni have moved into the coaching space. Each alumnus involved in recent efforts has a different coaching domain – from executive leadership and emotional intelligence to founder support and they each have a different story to tell about how they found their way to coaching, reflecting the multifaceted professional development characteristics of MSFS graduates.
Erin’s coaching story begins long before MSFS. Raised in the Quaker tradition, as far back as she can remember, Erin wanted to craft a career that would allow her to help others have maximum impact. Navigating a 20-year career spanning development consulting, strategy consulting, and corporate leadership, Erin developed a deep passion for company-building and a deep understanding of organizational dynamics.
Realizing that she was happiest when helping others learn how to operate more effectively in the grey areas that corporate environments often offer in spades, Erin transitioned into coaching in 2023. Just as Erin leveraged her MSFS education to craft a non-traditional but deeply rewarding career in corporate America, Erin now leverages those same skills to work with leaders and emerging leaders who want to build careers that create impact and provide deep fulfillment.
Lindsay's early career was rooted in behavior change programming particularly around HIV/AIDS and sexual and reproductive health until she experienced coaching’s transformative power firsthand, experiencing a breakthrough in how she managed the thoughts and behaviors that had been holding her back. In the decade since, she has shifted her focus exclusively to coaching, training
Erin Winkler-McCue (MSFS ‘06)
Lindsay Lincoln (MSFS ‘06)
MSFS ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
training, and workshop facilitation. In the decade since, she has shifted her focus exclusively to coaching,training,andworkshopfacilitation.Startingin2014asatrainingmanagerattheForeign ServiceInstituteinBangkok,herdrivetoenhancetrainingimpactledhertointegrateEmotional Intelligenceandcoachingintoleadershipworkshops.Lindsayhassincebuiltherowncoachingand training business, Connection Matters, where she works with individuals and teams within the privateandpublicsectors,including,morerecently,femalerefugeesandmigrants.
DrawingontheirrecentconversationswithMSFSalumniimpactedbydecisionsmadebythenew administrationinWashington,LindsayandErinbelievethatforMSFSalumnifacingunexpected career disruptions, coaching offers a sophisticated framework for professional re-imagination and realignment. By creating space for critical reflection and strategic experimentation, coaches and coachingmethodologiescantransformprofessionaluncertaintyintointentionalcareerrecalibration -andoften,greaterpersonalfulfillmentalongtheway.
Afewspecificideasforconsideration:
Coachestalkaboutlearningtositwiththediscomfortoftruthsthatwewouldrathernotface. Sittinginourgriefandgivinganametoourfrustrationscanhelpusmoveon.
Coachingcanhelpuncoverinternalbarrierslikelimitingbeliefs,fears,andshame,allowingus todevelopstrategiestoovercomeresistanceandtakemeaningfulstepstowardourgoals.Builtin accountability and intrinsic motivation within the rubric of coaching relationships help to spursmallactionsthatoftenleadtosignificantprogress.
In moments of uncertainty, coaching can provide a space to explore the risks and rewards of differentchoicesinasimulatedway,helpinguslandonacourseofaction.
Experimentation-anapproachcommonlyadoptedbycoaches-canbeemployedtounlockthe paralysis that can sometimes follow a big change. Breaking apart a major life decision into componentsthatcanbeweldedintohypothesesandtested(aswemighttestoutanewfeature), lookingtoseewhatbecomesastrong“yes”andwhatbecomesastrong“no”aswetrydifferent pathsonforsize,canbeaneffectivewaytojumpstartpositivechange.
A coach serves as a mirror, reflecting not just words but also body language, emotions, and unspokenthoughts.Throughthisprocessandthought-provokingquestions,coachescanhelp us reconnect with our true desires, beyond societal expectations or conditioned narratives, leadingtogreaterfulfillmentandsuccess.
If you were impacted by recent U.S. government decisions and you are interested in exploring coaching,pleasereachouttoanyofthealumnicoachesmentionedinthisarticle:
David E.Samso Aparici dsamso@gmail.com
Erin Winkler-McCue erinwm@gmail.com
Karen Chopra karen@chopracareers.com
Lindsay Lincoln lindsaydart@yahoo.com
Rita Jupe rita@thejupegroup.com
Vijay Rajendran vijay@mystartupsystem.com
MSFS ALUMNI EVENTS
UPCOMING EVENTS: Georgetown Reunion Weekend 2025
Friday May 30 –
Sunday June 1
We encourage all classes with a 5-year reunion (2020, 2015, 2010, etc.) to come back to the Hilltop to celebrate Reunion Weekend 2025, from Friday May 30 to Sunday June 1.
MSFS will host a picnic early Sunday afternoon specifically for MSFS alumni. You can reserve your tickets free of charge in Eventbrite. Feel free to bring your family and friends!
Georgetown is also hosting many university-wide reunion events throughout the weekend, including campus walking tours, dialogues with Georgetown faculty, receptions, and a special Reunion Mass. You can view the full schedule here. Please register through the Reunion Weekend 2025 website by May 20.
Please note: If you only wish to attend the MSFS alumni picnic, you do not need to register through the Reunion Weekend 2025 website or pay any registration fees.
Please also note: MSFS alumni should not sign up for "class parties," as these are specifically intended for undergraduate alumni only.
MSFS ALUMNI EVENTS
MSFS Alumni Board Meeting
In December, MSFS held its biannual Advisory Board meeting, welcoming back 20 MSFS Advisory Board Members to Georgetown for two days of insightful and collaborative discussions on shaping the future of MSFS.
On the first day, selected students from all four MSFS concentrations had the unique opportunity to engage in a round-robin session with the board members. Through these one-on-one conversations, students spoke with every member of the board present, and heard firsthand about their career journeys. The session was followed by a cocktail hour where the engaging conversations continued.
On the second day, the Board Members, MSFS faculty and student representatives came together to discuss strategic priorities for MSFS, ranging from financial planning and student affairs to advancing DEIA initiatives and strengthening alumni engagement.
Th MSFS Ad B d f 35 b ( tl MSFS l
MSFS ALUMNI EVENTS
MSFS Geoeconomics Talk & Alumni Reception in London
December 13, 2024
MSFS Director George
Shambaugh and Deputy Director Ashley Lenihan hosted a talk on geoeconomics, followed by an alumni reception, at the Royal Automobile Club in London. The evening was a wonderful opportunity for over 40 MSFS alumni and friends to reconnect with one another, and the program, over cocktails and canapés in the run up to the Holiday period.
MSFS ALUMNI EVENTS
Federal Service Shake-Up: MSFS Alumni Career Panel
Resilience, adaptability, and community: these were the key themes of our insightful MSFS Alumni Panel Discussion on navigating career shifts in international affairs. With government hiring freezes and shifting policy landscapes, many students and early-career professionals are wondering how to best move forward. Our incredible MSFS alumni panelists Mark Simakovsky (MSFS ‘05), Eileen Shields-West (MSFS ’67), David Samso-Aparici (MSFS ‘94), and Kaia Miller Goldstein (MSFS ‘94) offered both practical strategies and words of encouragement.
Key takeaways from the event include:
Expand your job search: Many MSFS students have gone onto jobs outside of government. Opportunities in international organizations, NGOs, and the private sector value the same skill sets and expertise!
Stay proactive & persistent: MSFS students regularly have the opportunity to network and engage with foreign affairs professionals across DC. Unexpected opportunities often come through networking, attending events downtown, and being open to new directions.
International students: Don’t lose hope! Many alumni successfully navigated visa challenges and they shared strategies for making connections, finding sponsors, and leveraging alumni networks.
Community matters: Our alumni are eager to help! Our alumni panelists generously shared their experiences and offered to connect with students and recent grads.
MSFS ALUMNI EVENTS
MSFS Alumni Conduct Mock & Final Oral Exams for Second-Year Students
Our amazing alumni community returned to the Hilltop this spring to make oral exams a meaningful learning experience for second-year MSFS students.
First, many thanks to the alumni and MSFS Advisory Board Members who conducted mock oral exams in late February! Mock delivering briefings to a profess
Mark Lagon (MSFS Advisory Board) M (M
Juan Mayagoitia (MSFS ‘12)
David Trachtenberg (MSFS ‘80)
Lakshmi Kumar (MSFS Adjunct Professor)
Tzili Mor (JD / MSFS ‘00)
Andrew Olson (MSFS ‘22)
Alberto Fassinotti (MSFS ‘06)
Kevin Covert (MSFS ‘96)
Kaia Miller-Goldstein (MSFS ‘94)
Greg Pollock (MSFS ‘07)
Jerome Prieur (MSFS ‘09)
Evangelos Razis (MSFS ‘17)
Frank Kerber (MSFS ‘76)
MSFS A
“The January 6th Prosecutions, Pardons, and Purge,” Featuring Jason Manning
On February 19, MSFS studen opportunity to engage with Jason (JD/MSFS ‘07), who was pa prosecution team that convict 1,000 rioters for their roles i assault on the Capitol. He de it was like to participate in criminal investigation in Department's history; the im the pardons of 1,500+ def recent firings and threatene career prosecutors and FBI ways students can engage in going forward.
Science, Technology, & International Affairs (STIA) Mixer
On November 22, STIA held a mixer for first and second-year students. We were joined by several recent graduates of the program. Students enjoyed the opportunity to compare notes about STIA electives, and
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
MSFS Students Attend COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan
November 11–22, 2024
Zach Slotkin (MSFS ‘25) and Kamal Aubakirov (MSFS ‘25), second-year MSFS students in the Science, Technology, and International Affairs (STIA) concentration, traveled to Baku, Azerbaijan for the annual climate change conference, UN COP29. The conference offered many opportunities to learn about climate finance, cutting-edge research, and global mitigation initiatives and witness diplomacy in action. As observer delegates, Zach and Kamal had a chance to attend briefings by researchers and independent NGOs, listen to interviews with senior climate advisors from around the world, watch heads of state deliver opening statements at the plenary, join a summit on methane and non-CO2 greenhouse gases, explore pavilions showcasing the work participating countries have done to combat climate change, and more!
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
MSFS Student Attends Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, India
Reflections from Antonia Baskov (MSFS ’25)
I had the incredible opportunity to attend the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, India, one of the world’s leading conferences on geopolitics and geoeconomics. Hosted by the Observer Research Foundation in partnership with the Indian government, the Dialogue brings together global leaders, policymakers, and scholars to address today’s most pressing challenges. This year ’ s theme, "Kālacakra – People, Peace, and Planet" shaped discussions among guests from over 125 countries.
As part of the Raisina–IE Global Student Challenge, I collaborated with students from 60 top Schools of Government and Global Affairs across eight regions. Over four weeks of virtual teamwork and a week in India, we tackled the theme: "Building Bridges: Mitigating the North–South Divide." Our focus was on strengthening multilateralism and closing the global digital divide. On the second day of the Dialogue, we presented our policy proposals to a distinguished jury that included Stephen Harper, former Prime Minister of Canada. A key takeaway from our team’s proposal:
"The digital divide is not just about access; it is about power. To bridge this gap, we need a multilateral approach to digital governance - one that prioritizes equitable access, recognizes the agency of the Global South, and challenges the monopolies of both state and corporate powers. "
Beyond the conference sessions, the week was a whirlwind of engagements from a reception where the Spanish Ambassador personally served paella to another hosted by the German Ambassador.
I am deeply grateful to the Observer Research Foundation and Georgetown University Walsh School of Foreign Service for making this experience possible - and for opening doors to moments like this.
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
Visit to Chesterfield Power Plant
Students in the Science, Technology, & International Affairs (STIA) concentration and new Environment & International Affairs program visited Dominion’s Chesterfield Power Plant on April 15.
"Engaging with engineers and plant management provided valuable insights into modern CCGT operations, the evolution from coal-based technologies to more sustainable alternatives, and the strategic diversification of energy portfolios for future resilience. Observing the plant's infrastructure in real-time illuminated both the operational complexities and daily challenges personnel face. This experience enriched my understanding of power generation systems. I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to participate in such an informative and eye-opening tour." – Kevin Drahos (MSFS ‘25)
"I had a great time getting detailed answers on the difficulties with energy transitions. It was interesting to understand how non-renewable energies aid in maintaining an efficient and reliable power grid. I saw this by touring the plant that is actively adapting (from coal to natural gas and other anticipated projects such as CERC). It was wonderful to be with workers who are passionate about what they do and were very welcoming and open to my questions."
– Karina Barker (MSFS ‘26)
"The tour was an interactive way to learn about the nuts and bolts of power generation as well as the range of stakeholder considerations that factor into the continual change and development of the entire power production process. Learning about how the company manages its engagements with local communities and their environmental concerns while balancing operational reliability to the power grid was particularly fascinating."
– Raffaele Sherman (MSFS ‘26)
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
“Frontier AI and Cybersecurity: Risks, Rewards, and Stakeholders’ Roles,” Featuring
Dr. Daniel Kang
On November 26, MSFS students join Dr. Daniel Kang, a leading researcher, for an eye-opening lect and discussion on the real-wo cybersecurity applications of AI. W deep expertise in dual-use risks, teaming, and model evaluation, Kang shed light on what keeps researchers awake at night and w makes them get up each morning.
Dr. Daniel Kang is an assistant professor of computer science at the University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign (UIUC), with a research focus in AI applications in cybersecurity and scientific research. Kang earned his PhD from Stanford University and his work has been supported by organizations such as Google, the Open Philanthropy Project, and Emergent Ventures. He has also consulted for OpenAI, Microsoft, and hedge funds, providing expertise on machine learning deployments and advising startups.
Conversation with Dr. Jon B. Alterman
On January 13 students in the Global Politics and Security (GPS) concentration had a chance to ezinski Chair for Global
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
Conversation with Anna Bjerde, Managing Director of Operations at the World Bank
O F b 18 MSFS P f d I t ational Development Concentration Chair Shanta g Director Anna Bjerde on building a better World ng development impact. Together, they will discuss pressing development challenges through ambition, oderated by Professor Mary Hallward-Driemeier, a de and Professor Devarajan.
“Democracy in Peril: Defending it Through Social Movements,” Featuring Srdja Popovic
On January 29, renowned democracy activist Srdja Popović came to MSFS to discuss the roots of democracy’s decline and how to rebuild and sustain democratic values via the power of collective action to confront authoritarianism, safeguard democratic institutions, and foster civic engagement. Srdja Popović is a Serbian activist who led the student movement Otpor! that helped topple Serbian president Slobodan Milošević.
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
Admitted Students Day 2025
In early April, the MSFS program hosted its Admitted Students Day, bringing together future policymakers, diplomats, and changemakers for a day filled with engaging discussions, faculty insights, and community-building.
The day started with an MSFS welcome and grand GSFS welcome at Gaston Hall, where admitted students were welcomed with inspiring remarks from Dean Joel Helman and a surprise appearance by Dr. Anthony Fauci! His presence underscores MSFS’s deep commitment to tackling nuanced global challenges, like the intersections of policy and public health.
The day continued with an academic overview, campus tours, and student involvement fair, giving attendees a glimpse into the unparalleled resources and tight-knit community that define MSFS.
Afternoon sessions featured faculty-led concentration overviews, an alumni panel offering career insights, and breakout discussions with current students and the SFS Career Center, highlighting the professional pathways that MSFS opens!
The day wrapped up with a reception at the Car Barn Patio, where admitted students had the chance to connect with faculty, alumni, and peers over stunning views of D.C.
MSFS FACULTY S
MSFS Faculty Bake-Off
December 9, 2024
Our faculty faced off once again in the annual MSFS Faculty BakeOff. Students tastetested the faculty’s many delicious creations and voted for their favorite treats. This year, Professor David Wallis took the cake, but it was a tight race!
MSFS FACULTY & STAFF EVENTS
MSFS Leadership Team Visits the White House
December 18, 2024
The MSFS Leadership Team had a unique opportunity to tour the White House last holiday season. MSFS alumnus Cary Cheng (MSFS ‘23), former Deputy Director of Finance and Operations for Vice President Kamala Harris, kindly organized the visit. He and fellow alumna Aliya Iftikhar (MSFS ‘23), former Policy Advisor in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, guided the group around the premises. Huge thanks to Cary and Aliya for this amazing and very special experience!
MSFS CLASS AMBASSADORS
The Class Ambassador program seeks to enable a deeper connection between MSFS alumni and with the ongoing MSFS Program. Ambassadors can help identify classmates who have lost touch with the program and may wish to re-engage. They can also help amplify messages from the program to classmates that may not wish to share their personal information with the program, but may still wish, for example, to know about reunions and other alumni events. Ambassadors also serve to help connect their class with the MSFS Board of Advisors and its Alumni Committee. If you have any questions about the Class Ambassador Program, please contact: msfsdeputydirector@georgetown.edu.
MSFS CLASS AMBASSADORS
CLASS NOTES
Class of 1975
John William Blaney (MSFS ‘75) d papers and some artifacts to G University Library's Booth Special Coll writes, “I hope to raise awareness of the of frontline diplomacy around the wor shed light on pivotal moments in rec where I was present, such as nuclear a negotiations in 1980's, the disintegra Soviet Union, Nelson Mandela, and h in Liberia was ended via diplomacy r battlefield itself in 2003.”
Class of 1979
Dennis Wilder (MSFS ‘79) has authored the opening chapter "Is the U.S. Indo-Pacific Strategy Sustainable" in the edited volume “Security Challenges in Contemporary Indo-Pacific” that will be published in April. One reviewer commented, "In this impressive new volume, Zhiqun Zhu leads an eclectic group of interdisciplinary scholars from Asia and the United States to address both traditional and nontraditional dimensions of security in the IndoPacific."
Class of 1981
Janet Heckman (MSFS 80) Hi from the beautiful west coast of Ireland where we live now. After retiring from EBRD just before Covid I have been serving as an independent director on 3 boards in Kazakhstan and 1 in the Republic of Georgia. I will be attending the
Jerome Parisella’s (MSFS ‘81) recently published book, American Common Sense, proposes that since traditionally liberal or conservative ideologies are no longer able to serve Americans' best interests, what we need now is a transpartisan ideology of common sense that serves the common good of all Americans. The website is https://americancommonsense.org/.
CLASS NOTES
Clyde Owan (MSFS ‘81) retired from the Department of Defense at the end of 2018, after 37+years of service. His assignments included stops at the Office of Naval Intelligence, the Defense Intelligence Agency, the National Intelligence Council, the Naval War College, and the Department of Homeland Security. He lives in Arlington, Virginia and spends his retirement doing volunteer work, golfing, and rooting for the NBA Wizards because one day they will be good. He gets together regularly with Jim Hendry and Dick Stanke.
Class of 1982
Since graduating from the JD/MSFS program, Michael March (MSFS ‘82) has spent most of his life (1986-90; 1992-now) in Asia (Hong Kong, Tokyo, Singapore, currently Bangkok) pursuing roles as an international transactions lawyer with Paul Weiss, NYNEX (now Verizon) and NBC (in the GE days), as a media and entertainment businessman with Sony Pictures and QVC, financial advisor, media consultant, tech and restaurant entrepreneur and, since Covid, as a "third act" actor (check IMDB).
Class of 1983
Scott Morse (MSFS ‘83) is the CEO of the Global Leaders Assembly Foundation (GLAF). GLAF is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation created in 2020. Though not formally affiliated with Georgetown, GLAF was created by MSFS alumni to bring like-minded individuals (including other alumni) together in salons and similar events of mutual interest to help reimagine global leadership. Scott shared the following pictures and updates from GLAF:
Three MSFS Alumni attended an "Il Volo" concert of Italian Classics in March with friends in San Jose organized by GLAF. Left to right are Cynthia Gaertner-Bridges (MSFS ‘92), Scott Morse (MSFS ‘83), and Margot Rudell (MSFS ‘98).
GLAF will hold its 3rd Summit in Tarragona, Spain on Oct. 17-19, 2025. Registration is Open! If interested, please email: Scott Morse (MSFS’ 83) at scottmorse@comcast.net or Randi Levinas (MSFS ’89) at randi.levinas@gmail.com. Attendees must fund their transportation & hotel, but GLAF hosts meals at Villa Tamarit, the home of Armand Bogaarts (MSFS ’85). Space is limited to 20 attendees.
CLASS NOTES
Class of 1983
Salon Dinner for MSFS Alumni on the topic of International Trade and Tariffs, held on Mar. 19, 2025 by GLAF at Wimmer Associates in Pasadena, CA. From Left including: Jean Poe (MSFS '06), Martina Senkyrikova (MSFS '21), Warren Wimmer (MSFS '83), Scott Morse (MSFS '83) Discussion Leader, Joshua Shen (MSFS '07), and Jenny Pan Hacker (MSFS '00).
Marty Kalin (MSFS ‘83) writes: “As a founding board member and Secretary of the Multifaith Alliance for Syrian Refugees (MFA), I'm pleased to report that during the last five years, "MFA" has donated $550 million in humanitarian aid and medical supplies to Syrian refugees. Recently, MFA diversified its scope and successfully delivered 170 trucks of aid into Gaza with ongoing deliveries planned. We are partnering with a Palestinian NGO called "MENA" & an Israeli humanitarian NGO called IsrAID. We need your help!”
Classes of 1984 & 1985
Steven Fisher’s (MSFS ‘84) new book about Russia has just been prereleased for sale by Brookings Institution Press/Bloomsbury Academic. Co-edited with Georgetown University professor emeritus Harley Balzer, "Failure. Russia Under Putin" examines the significant failures Russia has faced under Vladimir Putin's leadership. The book is now available for pre-order on Barnes & Noble.com and Amazon.
Continuing their long tradition of biennial MSFS reunion trips, Armand Bogaarts (MSFS ‘84), his wife Lourdes Ramirez (MA’85), Linda Powers Tomasso (MSFS ‘85), and Tim Mitchell (MSFS ‘84) toured Utah’s national parks in October 2024. Hiking is a theme of these reunions, at least while they still can!
CLASS NOTES
Class of 1990
Krysten Jenci (MSFS ‘90) wanted to share information about a ne book that explores the concept of immigrant trauma and emotion stories of immigration — “Slovak Settlers.” She writes: “My fathe Michael Jenci, and I wrote a story for this book about his journe ‘Slovak Settlers’ helps us all reflect on the people who came to th country in search of opportunity for their children – and all of th challenges and heartbreak that can come with this quest for a bett life.” https://a.co/d/cfkhW8T
Class of 1991
Magnus Lambsdorff (MSFS ‘91) writes, “Anyone interested in German politics– call me. ”
Class of 1995
Class of 1996
In 2024, Damien Arnaud (MSFS ‘96) celebrated 25 years at NATO HQ in Brussels. Since September 2024, he is focusing on the Middle East and North Africa regions as a senior Public Relations officer within the Alliance's international staff. You can follow him on Linkedin, on which he has recently become active.
Tere Ramos (MSFS ‘95) is transitioning from her role as Executive Director of Partners for Youth with Disabilities, a Bostonbased national nonprofit advancing inclusion for youth with disabilities. Effective April 7, she joined the Committee for Public Counsel Services Massachusetts' Public Defender’s Office as Chief Administrative Officer, overseeing operations for 800 dedicated lawyers and staff representing indigent clients.
CLASS NOTES
Class of 2001
This February, Alexandra Pugachevsky (MSFS’01) released a new book, 'I, Rodion', a techno thriller. When eighteen-year-old Rodion begins testing Artificial Intelligence technology at a mysterious research lab in Pittsburgh, he starts experiencing terrifying visions of the future visions where he finally avenges childhood trauma. But as his digital double grows stronger and the line between reality and projection blurs, Rodion realizes revenge might cost him everything he holds dear. Including his soul.
Class of 2004
Jocelyne Takatsuno (MSFS’04) writes, “I had a great time at the reunion in May 2024! It was perfect timing to reconnect with my classmates as I have pulled many of them into my most recent endeavor - teaching! In Spring 2025, I started teaching International Humanitarian Law to undergraduate seniors at Cal Poly Humboldt. I have also been a guest lecturer for several classes and other campuses, sharing the dilemmas I grappled with as a humanitarian aid worker and the challenges (!) faced by the sector.”
Class of 2006
Class of 2005
Firas Maksad (MSFS’05) has a new job as Managing Director for the Middle East and North Africa at Eurasia Group.
After ten years in international development in Washington, DC, Chia-Yang “C-Y” Kao, SJ (MSFS’06) joined the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) in 2014 and was ordained a Catholic priest last summer. He is now Associate Pastor at St. Francis Xavier Parish in Manhattan, NYC and pursuing a doctorate in Adult Learning and Leadership at Columbia University. He writes, “I still visit my fellow Jesuits at Georgetown from time to time and look forward to staying in touch with MSFS professors and alumni.”
CLASS NOTES
Class of 2006
Paul Neville (MSFS’06) wrote a book called “Endless Horizons: A Global Backpacker's Quest for Adventure, Connection, and Discovery.” It's a commentary about independent global backpacking told through the lens of his yearlong journey around the world following his Peace Corps service. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DQWTKHJS
Class of 2007
Vijay Rajendran (MSFS ‘07) recently published the book “The Funding Framework: Secure Startup Funding with Confidence” by Leader's Press. Available at most online bookstores.
Class of 2008
Class of 2011
Francisco Javier Urra (MSFS ‘08)
Andrew Levin (MSFS ‘11) is excited to report that under his guidance, his high school’s CultureFest has turned into one of the biggest multicultural events in the whole state of Wisconsin In addition, he just became a University of Wisconsin instructor so
that he can start teaching dual credit courses this Fall. Finally, he was accepted to a doctoral program through Northern Illinois University, where he plans to author a dissertation on student motivations and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Class of 2013
Erik Brattberg (MSFS ‘13) launched his own strategic consulting firm together with former US Ambassador to Poland and Sweden, Mark Brzezinski. The new firm, Brzezinski Global Strategies, will have a presence in both Washington, DC and Warsaw and will help clients navigate transatlantic relations and policy issues in Central and Eastern Europe.
CLASS NOTES
Class of 2018
Steele Burrow (MSFS ‘18) held the DC premiere for his new feature documentary Capturing Kennedy at the DC Independent Film Forum on February 16. The film shares the largely unknown story of JFKs personal photographer, Jacques Lowe, a German American immigrant and Holocaust survivor who captured many of the most iconic photographs of Kennedy’s Presidency. More information on the film can be found at https://capturingkennedy.com/.
Class of 2018
Amanda Quesada (MSFS ‘18) writes: “I’m excited to share that I’ve transitioned from government to real estate, earning my New Jersey license and joining Corcoran Sawyer Smith. I’m also a finalist for Miss New Jersey 2025, where I’m using my platform to bridge communities and promote financial literacy, especially in real estate. This new chapter allows me to combine my passion for service and empowerment while creating meaningful change in people’s lives.”
Class of 2020
After nearly eight years, Leopold Wildenauer (MSFS ’20) has completed his naturalization process and is now a US citizen. He’s looking forward to eating a cheesesteak.
Class of 2021
Since 2021, Tyler Gobble (MSFS ’21) has worked in hostage recovery and on North Korea human rights initiatives. Recently, he returned to the American West, where he feels most at home. Over the past year, he transitioned from his work in government to selling Rivian EVs and Porsches and will soon return to aviation, brokering personal aircraft and corporate jets. He welcomes fellow alumni to reach out if they find themselves in Arizona or Northern California.
CLASS NOTES
Class of 2022
Andrew Olson (MSFS ‘22) is teaching a Wargaming Course at Georgetown.
Class of 2023
Nicholas Wood (MSFS ‘23) is proud to say that he has started a new job as a federal civilian employee in the United States Space Force. He is working in S5SS as a Space Strategy and Policy Analyst.
Class of 2023
Francesco de Luca (MSFS ‘23) passed the entrance examination for the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs last November. He started the training period last January and has recently been assigned to the Directorate-General for Economic Affairs at the Ministry.
Class of 2024
Sheerica Elizabeth Ware Wilkins (MSFS ‘24) is the new Deputy Political Director with Jon Ossoff for Senate.
Wendy Avilés (MSFS ‘24) was just appointed by President Luis Abinader of the Dominican Republic as Second Secretary (diplomatic corps) at the Embassy of the Dominican Republic in The Hague, The Netherlands.
Chin Hsueh (MSFS ‘24) began to work as an Associate Analyst at Control Risks’ Global Risks Analysis practice in Tokyo in February 2025. He writes: “Please feel free to reach out if you ’ re interested in anything related to Tokyo. I’m very new here so I might not have all the answers, but I’m always happy to support as much as I can!”
SUPPORT MSFS
Help MSFS Train the Leaders of the Future!
Please consider donating to the MSFS Program! Every donation supports our students as they train to be the global leaders of the future! Scan the QR Code below for our giving page, where you can direct your gift towards different student-focused priorities. Please get in touch with us directly if you would like to explore some of the many other ways to give back to the program – from sharing your experiences with our students to reading admissions files!
MSFS Current Use Scholarship Fund
Donations to current use scholarships are fully deployed to support as many students as possible each year based on merit. Donors may also create or support named scholarships for particular purposes.
MSFS Futures Scholarship Fund
Donations provide tuition support for one student each year who promotes diversity, broadly defined, within their MSFS cohort.
MSFS-Extra-Curricular and Experiential Learning Fund
Donations support extracurricular activities and initiatives designed for students, e.g. – travel and participation costs at conferences and other events, engaging in service projects, and other applied learning opportunities and projects with private, public, or third sectors.
MSFS Directors Fund for Strategic Initiatives
https://msfs.georgetown.edu/about /support/
Donations support new initiatives that enhance the activities and programs available to MSFS students. Funding supports the development of expanded academic programming locally and abroad including outreach and engagement activities with the policy community, outside experts, and faculty, alumni or students on critical issues in international affairs.
MSFS LINKEDIN PAGE
As part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen connections within our vibrant MSFS community, MSFS has launched an official MSFS LinkedIn page (in addition to our alumni group on LinkedIn). This is a great way to stay updated on the latest news and events from MSFS and another outlet to have your professional milestones and achievements featured in a different format! We would also appreciate it if you included MSFS in your education or experience sections on your personal LinkedIn profile.
We would love to repost any updates (your publications, any MSFS reunions you had, etc.) that you would like to share with the MSFS LinkedIn community. Please tag the MSFS LinkedIn account or fill out the MSFS LinkedIn Update Submission Form to submit your updates.
We hope that this page can be a place for MSFS students and alumni to meet and celebrate each other’s accomplishments. Thank you for your continued support of MSFS!
Click here to follow our LinkedIn page!
HOYA GATEWAY
Hoya Gateway is a private website exclusively for Georgetown alumni to connect, network and find career opportunities. Within the platform, different programs and campus organizations have created groups that allow alumni to connect directly with their classmates.
All MSFS alumni and students are invited to join the “MSFS Connect” group. This platform allows you to search the MSFS community by class, industry, or region. It provides access to several useful resources, including Alumni Newsletters, upcoming events, information about Georgetown’s regional clubs, as well as job and internship opportunities. Alumni can also send the MSFS team job and internship listings themselves, which we will then share in the group.
If you have difficulties signing up for Hoya Gateway, please contact us at: msfsdeputydirector@georgetown.edu!
HOW TO JOIN
To sign up, please follow these simple steps:
1. Go to https://hoyagateway. georgetown.edu/. Registering will take approximately 15 minutes. Once you have created a profile, it may take up to 24 hours for Georgetown to confirm your registration.
2. Once you receive confirmation, log into your Hoya Gateway account and click on the ‘groups’ tab on the blue bar at the top of the page.
3. Scroll down and doubleclick on the “MSFS Connect” private group.
4. Then double-click the green “Join” button at the top right hand corner of your screen. You will receive an email when your request to join was approved.
SFS CAREER CENTER Alumni Resources
SFS Provides Career Services for Life!
Thinking about a career pivot or next steps? Want help strategizing your long-term career goals or expanding your network? As a reminder, alumni have lifetime access to all of the SFS Career Center resources, including: 24/7 Online Career Resources
Programming (e.g. Networking Events, Industry Panels, Jumpstart January Sessions) 1:1 Coaching
If you have any questions, please reach out to the SFS Career Center at sfscc@georgetown.edu.
Georgetown MSFS Alumni (official)
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12129878/
Georgetown University Master of Science in Foreign Service
https://www.linkedin.com/school/georgetownmsfs/
Join the MSFS Alumni
LinkedIn Group
Follow the Georgetown MSFS LinkedIn Page
@georgetownmsfs
https://www.instagram.com/georgetownmsfs/
Georgetown University M.S. in Foreign Service Program (MSFS)
https://www.facebook.com/georgetownmsfs
Georgetown MSFS
https://twitter.com/georgetownmsfs
General inquiries: msfsinfo@georgetown.edu
Alumni-related inquiries: msfsdeputydirector@georgetown.edu
eorgetown University Walsh School of Foreign Service
ttps://www.linkedin.com/school/georgetownsfs/
@georgetown sfs
https://www.instagram.com/georgetown sfs
School of Foreign Service - Georgetown University https://www.facebook.com/georgetownsfs/ Georgetown SFS
https://www.youtube.com/c/GeorgetownSFS
Additional SFS Alumni Resources: https://sfs.georgetown.edu/alumni/