A L U M N I N E W S L E T T E R F A L L , 2 0 2 4
MSFS LEADERSHIP WELCOME
Dear MSFS Alumni,
The six months since our last newsletter has been filled with dynamic changes at home and abroad. In true MSFS fashion, our alumni, faculty, and students are stepping up, taking on new challenges, and finding new opportunities. It is a humbling pleasure to share your many experiences in this newsletter.
In the spirit of Thanksgiving, we are thankful for all of you. We see the impact you make every day. Your actions inspire us all to move forward with purpose and optimism, even in difficult times. You give hope to our students, all of whom are preparing to enter careers in a world that is less predictable than it was when they entered the program, and many of whom are directly affected by domestic and global conflicts. Meeting many of you at various events brought them great joy and hope this semester. Hearing about your experiences, talking to you about how you navigated your careers, and learning from your expertise provide valuable lessons – and are some of the many ways that you make our MSFS program stronger. Thank you!
Happy Thanksgiving, Holidays, and New Year!
Warm regards,
George & Ashley
George Shambaugh Ashley Lenihan
George Shambaugh MSFS Director
Ashley Lenihan MSFS Deputy Director
George Shambaugh Director
Ashley Lenihan Deputy Director
Ryan Arey Director of Admissions
Meg Gardinier Director of Academic & Faculty Affairs
Careena Manoukian Asst. Director of Admissions
Matt Wooten Asst. Director of Academic & Faculty Affairs
Maggie Collins Asst. Director of Operations
Kavya Sankhavaram Events & Communications Manager
Paul Miller
Global Politics & Security Co-Chair
Jodi Vittori
Global Politics & Security Co-Chair
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
STUDENT NEWS
Meet the 2024 MSFS Futures
Scholar, Jessica Shiao!
Jessica Shiao is the Futures Scholar for the MSFS class of 2026. She plans to concentrate in Global Politics and Security (GPS), and focus her studies on East Asia and Latin America.
Jessica was exposed to debates about international politics from a young age. She was raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina, by a multilingual Taiwanese family. Her diverse cultural background and family experiences inspired her to pursue international relations.
Jessica completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations and Political Science at the University of Palermo in Buenos Aires. She also received a dual degree in Certified Spanish-English Translation and Law from the University of Buenos Aires, and is currently completing her Master’s in Business Administration at the University of Palermo.
Jessica worked as a paralegal at a small law firm that primarily focused on criminal
“Becoming a Taiwanese diplomat would have many challenges, but I think that’s the best part of it… Connecting with my roots and going back, serving for my parents’ country, where they came from, is one of the most beautiful things I may do.”
criminal, immigration, and business law beginning in 2019. During the COVID-19 shutdown, she taught Mandarin online to teenage students in Argentina. In 2021, Jessica began working at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Argentina, where she was able to apply her political, legal, and language skills in support of the Taiwanese Ambassador. In her spare time, she also serves as an English and Spanish translator.
Jessica is coming to MSFS to explore and improve the complex geopolitical relationship between Taiwan, China, and the United States by becoming a diplomat at the Taiwanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She is looking forward to connecting and learning from the unique cultural perspectives of the MSFS students and faculty. Jessica is also excited to immerse herself in a new environment and explore DC’s vibrant community. She appreciates how MSFS combines theoretical coursework with practical experience through experiential learning opportunities, leadership initiatives, and internships.
– Jessica Shiao, MSFS’26
STUDENT NEWS
MSFS Student Awarded Boren Fellowship in Poland: Reflections from Katie “Kasia” Plywaczewski (MSFS’26)
Partnering with the Department of Defense and the National Security Education Program (NSEP), receiving a Boren Award has given me the opportunity to study language abroad for upwards of 25 weeks. As a PolishAmerican, I sought out this fellowship as a way to connect with my heritage and understand the geopolitical significance of Poland to US national security. My goal by the end of this fellowship is to first pass the B1 national proficiency exam and return home with a C1 or C2 comprehension level of the language.
Having been in Poland for a few weeks now, I am very much eager to explore my new city and country. Some highlights of my stay have been seeing Stare Miasto (Old City), walking through the scenic Park Łazienkowski (Royal Baths Park), and eating around the surprisingly vibrant food scene! I also had the privilege of volunteering for the recent Warsaw Security Forum with the Fundacja im. Kazimierza Pułaskiego (Casimir Pulaski Foundation) where I saw prominent political figures from around Europe - a great way to stay in touch with the IR community!
I am beyond thankful for the support that I have received from Georgetown University and my MSFS community that I miss so dearly. I cannot wait to have a few of them come visit me while I am here and share with them all the amazing things that I have come to love about my new home!
MSFS ALUMNI EVENTS
UPCOMING EVENTS: Georgetown Reunion Weekend
Save the date for Reunion Weekend 2025, Friday May 30 - Sunday June 1!
We especially want to encourage classes with a 5-year reunion (2020, 2015, 2010, etc.) to come back to the Hilltop for Reunion Weekend 2025, from Friday May 30 to Sunday June 1. While much of the weekend is for undergraduate alumni, there are a number of events open to other alumni that would be highly enjoyable for you and your classmates to experience together – from hilltop and historical tours to a special Sunday Mass! Most importantly, we will be hosting an event just for the MSFS community on Sunday afternoon.
More information and registration for the MSFS and Georgetown Reunion events will be available in early Spring.
MSFS ALUMNI EVENTS
MSFS Alumni Reunion Weekend Picnic -
2024 Recap
As part of Georgetown’s alumni weekend celebrations in June 2024, MSFS alumni and their family members gathered at Georgetown's historic Francis J. Heyden Observatory on June 2 for a picnic.
This was the first effort to bring all 5-year reunion classes back to the Hilltop for Reunion Weekend, so it was a special opportunity for alumni from many graduating classes to catch up with old friends and build new connections to the MSFS community. The festivities were kicked off by the Class of 2004, which organized a special dinner to celebrate their 20th reunion.
MSFS ALUMNI EVENTS
Alumni & New Student Mixer at Orientation
August 22, 2024
The incoming MSFS class of 2026 celebrated their orientation week with alumni from 1978 to 2024. Some alumni were local, but others travelled from farther afield, with the prize going to Yo Konno (MSFS ‘82) who visited all the way from Japan! The event was a special treat for our students, who were able to ask questions about careers post-MSFS, and for our alumni, who were able to meet and inspire the next generation.
MSFS ALUMNI EVENTS
Global Business, Finance & Society (GBFS) Alumni & Current Student Mixer
The GBFS Concentration recently hosted a mixer for recent alumni, students, and Adjuncts.
Concentration Chair David Wallis reflected, “perhaps not looking older but… definitely a lot wiser was the pervading theme amongst a fun event!”
Current students enjoyed meeting and learning from their predecessors, their predecessors enjoyed connecting and reconnecting, and all enjoyed meeting their current or former Adjuncts outside of class.
About 50 people turned up for pizza, wine and beer and a good time was had by all.
MSFS ALUMNI EVENTS
MSFS 50th & 25th Reunions: October 25-26
“The enthusiastic turnout this fall to celebrate their 50th reunion reflected a deep and continuing attachment to Georgetown graduate education by members of the MSFS class of 1974. More than 90 percent of those contacted responded by attending the class reunion, a truly remarkable number. It was a wonderful opportunity for alumni to renew personal bonds, learn about exciting new directions being charted by MSFS and the School of Foreign Service, interact with current students and key administrators, and reflect on foreign affairs milestones over the past half century.
As the first class to benefit from former SFS Dean Peter Krogh’s vision of a full two-year master’s degree program, MSFS ’74 marked an initial step toward Georgetown’s rise to a position of excellence atop national rankings for international affairs graduate programs. The class welcomed the opportunity to express thanks personally to Dr. Chet Crocker, who implemented Dean Krogh’s vision as MSFS Director and provided invaluable service as a mentor to his students.”
MSFS ALUMNI EVENTS
“The reunion weekend program, organized by Deputy Director Ashley Lenihan and her team, together with a Class of ’74 Committee led by Deirdre Maloney, included an alumni panel with students and a campus tour on Friday afternoon, capped by a cocktail reception, where current MSFS Director George Shambaugh provided an update on the dynamic expansion of the graduate program, which has quadrupled in enrollment since 1974. He also initiated a conversation on ways alumni can be more involved going forward.
Alumni, spouses and partners from the Class of ’74 returned the next day for a full morning program, which also included members of the 25th Reunion Class. SFS Dean Joel Hellman kicked off the Saturday session with an informative briefing on the healthy state of the School of Foreign Service, the expansion of course offerings and enrollment, and details on how the curriculum has been tailored to prepare students for 21st century careers in international affairs.
Distinguished graduate Herbert Cordt (MSFS’74), who came to Georgetown from the Vienna Diplomatic Academy in 1973 and serves on the MSFS Advisory Board, also addressed the session, lending an important international perspective. He thanked the SFS and MSFS leadership for their vital work, and urged classmates to appreciate the value of supporting graduate education at Georgetown.
A panel on ‘50 Years of Addressing Global Challenges’ provided alumni with the chance to reflect on key international developments over the past half century and the challenges ahead. Two of Washington’s foremost foreign policy experts, John Negroponte and Chet Crocker, drew on their decades of experience in the foreign affairs arena to address issues ranging from the importance of education in successful policy-making, to the impact of domestic factors on foreign policy.” (continued on next page)
Panel with Amb. John Negroponte, Dr. Chet Crocker, Hank Hendrickson, and Dr.
The 50th Reunion Class enjoying dinner at the Tabard Inn
50th Reunion Cocktail Reception in the MSFS Lounge
MSFS ALUMNI EVENTS
“Ambassador Negroponte, a former Deputy Secretary of State, and Dr. Crocker, an ex-Assistant Secretary of State, also shared anecdotes from their careers in government service. Deputy Director Ashley Lenihan joined the panel with a perspective usefully relating the discussion to MSFS objectives and priorities. Class of ’74 alum Hank Hendrickson served as moderator.
The weekend concluded on a high note with a festive Saturday evening dinner party at Washington’s venerable Tabard Inn, where the nostalgia of a class reunion evoked fond memories and the re-telling of stories drew laughter and smiles through the room. The dinner also offered the class a fitting opportunity to express its appreciation to Dr. Crocker, the evening’s guest of honor.
The next day alumni returned to their homes – from coast to coast and across borders – thankful for the opportunity to renew associations with classmates, and deeply appreciative of the personal and professional value of their time as members of the ‘groundbreaking’ MSFS Class of 1974.”
– Hank Hendrickson (MSFS’74)
MSFS Class of 1974 and 1999 Meet with Students
During their visit to the Hilltop, members of the 50th and 25th Reunion Classes spoke with groups of firstyear MSFS students about their varied professional experiences. Alumni offered insight into how students can expand on their MSFS education to build fulfilling careers in international affairs.
The 25th Reunion Class celebrated with a special dinner and cocktail reception.
Help MSFS Train the Leaders of the Future!
Please consider donating to the MSFS Program on this upcoming #GivingTuesday – December 3, 2024! 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.
#GIVING Help MSFS Train the Leaders of the Future!
Please consider donating to the MSFS Program on this upcoming #GivingTuesday – December 3, 2024! 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 STUDENT EVENTS
Class of 2026 Admitted Students Day
April 4, 2024
Last spring, MSFS welcomed admitted students to campus with a day full of programming. MSFS Director George Shambaugh kicked off the event by sharing welcome remarks. Admitted students then had opportunities to hear faculty speak about the concentrations offered at MSFS, engage with current students through panels and campus tours, and learn how the SFS Career Center can support MSFS students throughout their professional journeys.
The day also featured a panel of Alumni, sharing their experience of the program and the role it has played in their lives. The panel featured Aliza Appelbaum (MSFS ‘13), Merissa Khurma (MSFS ‘08), and former Board Co-Chair Gyude Moore (MSFS ‘09).
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
Discussion with Ambassador Marcia Bernicat, MSFS’80
This past April, Abe Ahmad (MSFS ’25) moderated a highly engaging and well-attended discussion with the Director General of the U.S. Foreign Service and MSFS alumna, Ambassador Marcia Bernicat (MSFS ‘80). The event, held at the Intercultural Center, drew a diverse group of both incoming and prospective diplomats eager to gain insights into the field of American diplomacy.
Ambassador Bernicat, a pioneering figure in American diplomacy, explored the evolving landscape and prospects of the U.S. Foreign Service. She shared valuable strategies for thriving in a diplomatic career, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, resilience, and maintaining a global perspective amidst the multifaceted challenges faced worldwide.
The interactive event format provided students with the unique opportunity to ask Ambassador Bernicat questions about life in the Foreign Service and seek her advice on how to succeed in this demanding and rewarding career. Her reflections offered invaluable guidance, underscoring both her and the State Department’s mission to inspire a new generation of diverse talent to join the U.S. Diplomatic Corps.
Ambassador Bernicat’s presence and the lively discussion highlighted the crucial role of empowering diverse perspectives and cultivating a robust, dynamic diplomatic community for the challenges ahead.
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
MSFS Tropaia Ceremony
May 16, 2024
Yet another cohort departed from the Hilltop in May. We are so proud of all that they have achieved, and wish them the best for their new careers! We are also excited to now welcome the Class of 2024 as the newest members of our alumni community!
Congratulations to this year’s MSFS award recipients!
Shea Megale received the ‘MSFS DEIA Award’ in honor of her commitment to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and access within the program.
Tima Dasouki received the ‘MSFS Service Award’ in honor of her exemplary service to the program.
Julika Enslin received the inaugural ‘Eileen ShieldsWest MSFS Award’ in honor of her courage, imagination, commitment to values, and ability to take risks.
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
MSFS Tropaia Ceremony
We would like to thank the MSFS Representatives for the Class of 2024 – Cade Carter, Catherine Hodgson, In-Hwan “Helen” Heo, and Maximo Ulloa – for their service to the MSFS community. We would also like to thank Brandon Lee, Mehdi Kocakhaya, Tima Dasouki, and Shea Megale for their hard work as members of the MSFS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee during the 2023-2024 academic year.
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
SFS Graduate Commencement Ceremony
May 18, 2024
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
Welcome to the MSFS Class of 2026! Orientation, August 22-23, 2024
The Class of 2026 is the largest cohort in MSFS history, with 126 students enrolled. They come from around the world, representing 26 US states, and 23 countries, including India, Eritrea, Afghanistan, Japan, Brazil, South Korea, Ukraine, Italy and China.
Composed of teachers, diplomats, researchers, media relations experts, chemical and nuclear experts, community advocates, and civil servants, this cohort embodies diversity both personally and professionally. It also includes 2 Peace Corp volunteers, 3 AmeriCorps members, 9 Fulbright Fellows, 8 Boren Fellows, 4 Rangel Fellows, 7 Pickering Fellows, 1 Payne Fellow, 2 Clarke Fellows, and 14 military affiliated students.
Within the first-year class, 57 students are concentrating in Global Politics and Security; 36 in International Development; 20 in Science, Technology, and International Affairs; and 13 in Global Business, Finance, and Society.
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
Session with Practitioner-in-Residence Joyce Msuya, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs
Practitioner-in-Residence Joyce Msuya, the UN Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, spoke candidly with students about the challenges of humanitarian work of the UN, and of being a professional, African woman in international organizations.
“Our speaker, Joyce Msuya was so transparent and insightful sharing her experiences, a great discussion indeed,” said one of the students.
Significantly, Ms. Msuya wrote to Shanta Devarajan, who moderated the discussion
discussion, “I was reflecting on the discussion that I had with your students: utter admiration of their curiosity and intelligence; lots of great insights to inform the high-level discussions we are having at the UN. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to engage with unfiltered brains. I loved the interactions!”
Seminar on “Conflict & Instability: Economic Consequences for the MENA Region”
The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Forum organized a seminar on “Conflict and Instability: Economic Consequences for the MENA Region.” The event brought together Merissa Khurma (MSFS '08) of the Wilson Center, Adnan Mazerei of the Peterson Institute of International Economics, Amat Alsoswa, former Minister of Human Rights of Yemen, and Djavad SalehiEsfahani of Virginia Tech to discuss the impact of the conflict on the economies of the MENA region and possible ways of mitigating some of the adverse consequences.
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
IDEV Mixer with Mercy Tembon, Vice President & Corporate Secretary of the World Bank
Mercy Tembon, Vice President and Corporate Secretary of the World Bank, spoke to students in the International Development concentration about her long and varied career, starting with establishing a school in her native Cameroon to working on education in the Sahel, and managing the Bank's country programs in Burundi, Burkina Faso, Georgia / Armenia / Azerbaijan, and Bangladesh, before being appointed Corporate Secretary. Students found her career both inspiring and accessible.
On September 17, students participated in a discussion with Lant Pritchett, Professor at London School of Economics and Research Director of Labor Mobility Partnerships (LaMP). Mr. Pritchett discussed the idea that national development is necessary, and may be sufficient, to achieving national development goals.
Seminar with Lant Pritchett
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
“How
China is Using Strategic Corruption To ‘Island Hop’ in the Pacific,” Featuring Cleo Paskal
Cleo Paskal, non-resident Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense Democracies, joined a packed classroom on the Hilltop for a talk on how China is using strategic corruption to expand its influence on island nations in the Pacific.
Ms. Paskal provided some context on the strategic landscape of the region, and how China is integrating lessons from history to tailor their strategic objectives. Ms. Paskal explained how China has used information operations, money laundering, and bribery in order to compromise local island officials, and align local governance initiatives with their interests.
In the Q&A portion of the program, students asked questions regarding the implications of the upcoming election in Palau, the relative ability of the U.S. to supply its forces in the region, and one student native to the Marianas islands shared her experience in the context of the wider discussion.
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
Conversation with the Swedish Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Ambassador Urban Ahlin
On October 29, 37 SFS students had the privilege of hearing from the Swedish Ambassador to the United States, Urban Ahlin. The discussion centered on Sweden's recent NATO membership and the reasons behind the country’s delayed entry into the alliance. Historically, Sweden has maintained a non-aligned stance and has enjoyed over 200 years of peace. However, changing times have made NATO membership more relevant.
MSFS students Esther Serger and Johanna Friman reflected, “As international students from Sweden, it was incredibly exciting for us to help organize this event to deepen understanding of Sweden’s relationship with the United States and its unique history. It was wonderful to see how many attendees appreciated the event, and we are grateful to the Ambassador Ahlin for generously sharing his experiences and knowledge with us. ”
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
Climate Security, Activism, and the Future of Our Planet: A Fireside
Chat with Luisa Neubauer
On October 30, students joined climate activist Luisa Neubauer for a Fireside Chat. It was a unique opportunity to hear from a leading voice in the climate movement and engage in meaningful dialogue about our collective responsibility to the planet. Neubauer shared insights into the role of activism and youth engagement in addressing the climate emergency. Some quotes resonated especially strongly with students:
“If it just makes you feel better in a bad world, it’s not real hope. If it's another reason to prove why we can stay where we are and not do anything, it’s not real hope. Then there’s sustainable hope which puts us in the context of the world and promises to make the world better together. There is a real need for this hope, a mental and emotional space where we can exist in this world, inherently turning toward the world, not away. ”
“There’s this idea of ‘thick skin’ & I don't buy it. My activism consists of being receptive to the world around me. So developing ‘thick skin’ would be contrary to the very essence of my activism. To me, this sounds like a story about someone that I’m not and don’t want to be, an activist that I don’t attempt to portray.”
“As activists and organizers, we need to reclaim the narrative. We need to challenge and look carefully at who gets to define activism, because the rules are too often made by people with little genuine interest in the outcomes of social justice movements.”
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
Kazakhstan's Nuclear Future:
A Diplomatic Coffee Chat with Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the USA, Yerzhan Ashikbayev
The Science, Technology, and International Affairs (STIA) program hosted an insightful conversation with Kazakhstan’sAmbassadortotheUSA,YerzhanAshikbayev, on October 11. Ambassador Ashikbayev reflected on a critical juncture in Kazakhstan’s energy policy, days after Kazakhstan held a national referendum to gauge public opinion on the potential construction of a nuclear power plant.
The discussion delved into Kazakhstan’s Soviet-era legacy, abundant uranium resources, successful denuclearization efforts, and creation of a nuclear weapons-free zone. Participants also explored the broader implications of the referendum, as Kazakhstan considers whether to embrace a nuclear-powered future amidst global climate and geopoliticalchallenges.
The diplomatic chat was moderated by Dr. Gavin Helf, a Senior Expert on Central Asia for the U.S. Institute of Peace in Washington, DC, where he works on Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan,Tajikistan,TurkmenistanandUzbekistan.
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
Book Discussion With Ambassador Stuart Eizenstat
Students joined Ambassador Stuart Eizenstat on October 2 for a discussion on his new book, "The Art of Diplomacy: How American Negotiators Reached Historic Agreements that Changed the World." Ambassador Eizenstat discussed his experiences at the center of several historical negotiations and the important role that American diplomats played in the last century.
Following the discussion, there was a Q&A and discussion moderated by Diana Villiers Negroponte, Global Fellow at The Wilson Center and SFS Adjunct Professor.
Information Session with Charlotte Ruhe, EBRD
On November 13, MSFS hosted an engaging discussion with Charlotte Ruhe, Managing Director for Central and South Eastern Europe at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).
In addition to giving students an introduction to the EBRD and what is like to work there, Ms. Ruhe reflected on successes and failures of the 2004/2007 European Union enlargements and lessons for the case of the Western Balkans, Ukraine and Moldova.
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
Conversation with Taoiseach Simon Harris
Taoiseach Simon Harris, head of the Irish government, spoke to students on October 11 in celebration of 100 years of Irish-American diplomatic relations. The BMW Center for German and European Studies organized the event alongside Georgetown’s Global Irish Studies Program.
Harris emphasized the importance of the relationship between Ireland and the United States, especially the strong economic partnership cultivated over decades and the role that the US has played in the Irish peace process.
Following his remarks, students asked the Taoiseach about issues ranging from Ireland’s relationship with China to the suspension of the Mitchell scholarship, a fully funded scholarship for American students to study in Ireland.
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
Visit to Calvert Cliffs Clean Energy Center
MSFS students, in collaboration with undergraduate students concentrating in Science Technology in International Affairs (STIA), recently organized an educational visit to Constellation Energy’s Calvert Cliffs Clean Energy Center in Lusby, Maryland.
Sixteen students had the opportunity to observe the inner workings of a nuclear power plant, bridging the gap between classroom learning and realworld application. This visit provided a deep dive into nuclear technology, offering perspectives on the intricate science and operations that drive one of the world's most significant lowcarbon energy sources.
For the students, witnessing nuclearpowered turbines in action added a tangible dimension to the knowledge they’ve built through coursework on energy and security. "Coming from Europe, where nuclear energy faces significant opposition, this trip gave me a rare opportunity to explore the science of nuclear power up close,” shared Clemente Jan Gilardini Benitez, a first-year MSFS student. stand
“Standing just meters from a turbine was an unforgettable moment.”
Second-year MSFS student Avi Gupta, reflected, “Learning about nuclear power and security in STIA classes is important, but feeling the roar of the turbines or learning about the crab defenses in the intake pipes provides a practical understanding of these complex technologies. Through this trip, we saw policy turned into practice.”
From understanding the role of nuclear power in U.S. energy policy to seeing the practical defenses in place to protect local ecosystems, the trip brought classroom theories to life. Thank you to our very own MSFS STIA Concentration Chair Dr. Theresa Sabonis-Helf, Constellation Energy, and our terrific host, Janna Jackson!
MSFS STUDENT EVENTS
Conversation with the Kingdom of Denmark's Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Ambassador Jesper Møller Sørensen
On November 20, students gathered in McGhee Library for a conversation with the Kingdom of Denmark's Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Ambassador Jesper Møller Sørensen.
Ambassador Sørensen discussed the Kingdom of Denmark's role in NATO, the relationship between Denmark and the U.S. in the Arctic, and the implications of Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine for Europe’s geopolitical landscape. The event was especially insightful for MSFS students focused on NATO, European and Arctic security policy, and the war in Ukraine.
Feminist Cyberlaw Fireside Chat with Meg Leta Jones and Amanda Levendowski
Georgetown Women in International Affairs (GWIA) and the Georgetown Digital Tech Forum (GDTF) hosted a Fireside Chat on November 20 with Meg Leta Jones and Amanda Levendowski, two pioneering voices in technology law and policy.
The discussion delved into the intersections of gender, race, sexuality, and disability within today’s cyberspace and the laws that that govern it, providing insights into how feminist perspectives can reshape our understanding of digital rights and governance. Meg and Amanda explored topics from their edited volume, Feminist Cyberlaw, and engaged in a dialogue about the implications of current legal frameworks on marginalized communities.
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
MSFS CLASS AMBASSADORS
MSFS CLASS AMBASSADORS
CLASS NOTES
Class of 1968
Fred Radewagen (MSFS’68) was appointed senior adviser for federal, regional and international affairs to the Governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands; serves on the Board of Advisers for GU's Center for Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Studies; and along with his wife, U.S. Rep
Rep. Amata Coleman Radewagen (AS-AL), organized the endowment of the Center's Peter Tali Coleman Lectureship in Pacific Public Policy, named for her father, the late American Samoa Governor Peter Tali Coleman (BS '49, LLD 51).
Class of 1982
Class of 1981
Jerry Parisella (MSFS ‘81) published a new book: https://american commonsense.org/
Valerie Meehan Schmalz (MSFS ‘82) is still enjoying her position as Director, Office of Human Life & Dignity, Archdiocese of San Francisco. She writes, “Big family news for us is that our oldest son Ed and his wife Maggie Boone welcomed a son Finan Patrick on July 27 and all are thriving in Kansas City. We are very blessed that all four of our sons are good people and doing well. Finan was baptized Aug 25.”
On August 15, Yo Konno (MSFS ‘82) attended the 90th Anniversary of Japan-America Student Conference (JASC) held in Washington DC. JASC, commenced in 1934, is committed to bilateral people-to-people diplomacy across the Pacific. Deputy Assistant Secretary Robert Koepcke read a congratulatory message from Secretary Blinken and Deputy Chief of Mission Koichi Ai from the Embassy of Japan offered remarks, showing a video message from Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa.
CLASS NOTES
Class of 1983
Tom Finn (MSFS ‘83) published his second book in January 2024, The Shift Effect. The book shares the stories of 50 of his executive coaching clients and reveals a surprising discovery: that many of us limit our effectiveness and influence by overdoing a behavior or underdoing (not taking a needed action). These 50 clients created major impact by making small shifts in attitude or behavior. Leaders became more strategic, systems got implemented, people got overload under control.
Scott Morse (MSFS’83) writes:
On April 20, the Global Leaders Assembly Foundation (GLAF) hosted a gathering for MSFS Alumni at the John Carroll Awards Dinner, held at the Morgan Hotel in Dublin, Ireland. Dean Hellman also met and spent time with some of us at the Mary Robinson Event!
GLAF also hosted a Champagne Reception for a San Francisco Bay Area MSFS Formal, Opening Night, San Francisco Opera, on September 6, 2024. In attendance were Carolyn Dowling (MSFS’83), Scott Morse (MSFS’83), and Ann Mead (MSFS’81).
GLAF is an independent organization founded by a group of MSFS alumni in 2020 to reimagine global leadership through stakeholder dialogues, panels, and roundtables.
CLASS NOTES
Class of 1986
Bruce McKaig (MSFS ‘86) continues to work on labor policies and practices. This work is currently supported by the Maryland State Arts Council and the Baltimore Office of Promotion and the Arts. Next spring, Baltimore institutions hosting exhibitions and public programming of his work include: Friends of Patterson Park, The Peale Center, Current Space, and Open Works. The exhibitions and programming will include insights
Class of 1989
Kristi Ragan (MSFS ‘89) is still working in International Development after UNDP joined DAI, and is now in Eastern Europe.
Class of 1990
Krysten Jenci (MSFS ‘90) is excited to share that she started a new career on the Global Government Affairs team at Cisco in July 2023. She writes, “it has been so fun to see digital policy developments from a company perspective after having worked as Director of the Office of Digital Services Industries at the Department of Commerce for over 10 years (and a total of 30 years working on global trade issues at the International Trade Administration). I'm so happy to be at Cisco and grateful to Georgetown for launching my career. ” insights and works from recent residencies in Santa Fe, France, and Hungary.
Guillermo Christensen (MSFS’90, L’05) is a national security law partner at the global law firm K&L Gates LLP, and now an adjunct law professor at Georgetown University Law Center, teaching an experiential course on artificial intelligence for lawyers. The course is taught to evening students in the Spring semester. In addition, Guillermo currently serves as an instructor on legal issues at the FBI Chief Information Security Officer Academy in Quantico.
CLASS NOTES
Class of 1991
Dorothy Shea (MSFS ‘91) was confirmed by the Senate as the next Deputy U.S. Representative to the United Nations on August 1. She took up duties here on August 19. Dorothea was pleased to have Michael Tolentino and Jordan Schwartz, two friends from MSFS ‘91, attend her swearing-in ceremony. Donald McHenry, one of her favorite professors and former Ambassador to the UN, was also there as an honored guest. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield officiated.
Class of 1993
Mercedes Fitchett (MSFS ‘93) has started a new position at the Department of Defense and is now with the Defense Security Cooperation Agency Manager of Direct Commercial Contracts with Foreign Military Financing. She is looking forward to bringing together her former international trade / commerce experience with a national security focus.
Class of 1998
Jorge Castro (MSFS ‘93) attended the 13th WTO Ministerial Conference in Abu Dhabi in FebruaryMarch 2024. It was the occasion to review the work of the multilateral trading system and take collective decisions.
Joaquin Tasso Vilallonga (MSFS '98) is honored and excited to have been appointed European Union ambassador to Mauritania in September 2024 after four challenging years as ambassador to Togo.
Class of 2000
Derik D. Coffey (MSFS ‘00) is thrilled to announce that he is now serving as a Board Member with the CFA Society of Chicago. He writes, “ our organization promotes the highest ethical standards and professional excellence within the investment industry.”
Erika Veberyte (MSFS ‘00) is in DC, and is working for the Department of State.
CLASS NOTES
Megan Citarella Stewart (MSFS ‘00) worked in nonprofit and health care sectors as a consultant after MSFS. After moving to Atlanta, GA with her husband, Joe, she primarily focused on raising their two children, Devon & Chase, who now attend the University of Georgia. She also went back to school through UCLA to become a Board-Certified Patient Advocate. She recently started a new role at Emory University supporting the Pediatric Research Alliance as a Program & Research Manager, where she can fortunately combine her interests.
Class of 2001
This summer, Alexandra Pugachevsky (MSFS ‘01) published a trilogy about a woman coming into her own. It's a story of self-discovery and changing your life in your 40s, with a strong female protagonist. There is a bit of a paranormal element to the story. The book is called Lilou: The Shadyside Chronicles and is a great read for Halloween. It's available on Amazon and other book retailers.
Jeanne Briggs (MSFS ‘01) is still working for USAID and just moved back overseas for another foreign service tour – she is serving as head of the Office of Democracy, Rights and Governance at the USAID Mission in Kinshasa, DRC.
Brian Walker (MSFS ‘01) began his fourth expatriate assignment with HP Inc moving to Taipei to lead the global product management team for HP Z desktop workstation PCs.
Darian Qureshi (MSFS ‘01) is currently employed at National Park Service and Pima Community College.
CLASS NOTES
Paul Hemesath (MSFS ‘01) writes, “Life in Sacramento, California, continues to be an adventure! After 15 years with the U.S. Department of Justice, I am starting at a legal/cybersecurity position at Coinbase. While at DOJ, I got to travel around the world to talk about cryptocurrency enforcement, and along the way I visited Eric O'Malley (MSFS’01, L’01) in Saipan (see picture). The last of three kids will be leaving the house for college next year. More time for travel!”
Class of 2002
Monica Gallardo Montoya (MSFS ‘02) is currently leading the Georgetown Alumni Club of Northern California, which partnered with Scott Morse to host an event on China & Geopolitics in February 2024 that drew many alumni and won the Georgetown University Alumni Association Educational Program of the Year Award. She writes, xxxx
“I've met a handful of MSFS alumni and would love to meet more at upcoming events. Folks can follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram or Facebook - look for norcalhoyas or email us at norcalhoyas@georgetown.edu.”
Class of 2003
Komal Bazaz Smith (MSFS ‘03) moved to a slightly new field as Chief Business Officer at Global Cyber Alliance.
Daniel de la Morena (MSFS ‘03) moved to the World Bank Group Corporate Secretariat.
CLASS NOTES
Class of 2004
Katherine Shamraj (MSFS ‘04) moved to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in August to work for an emerging markets venture capital & dev consulting company called Renew Capital. She's dreaming of ways to create a Fulbright-type program to bring management consultants and MBA types into small and medium-sized businesses in emerging markets for 6-12 months to help them grow their business. Less "capacity building" focused on training given out of context and more rolling up the sleeves! Reach out if you want to dream with.
Class of 2006
Class of 2007
Javier Soria Quintana (MSFS ‘06) was appointed Ambassador of Spain to Libya.
Alberto Fassinotti (MSFS ‘06) is looking forward to reconnecting!
On August 5th, a group of Hoyas, Josefina Urzaiz (MSFS'07), Evi Komiopoulu (MBA’07), and Meenal Balar (MBA'07), summited Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, standing at 5,895 meters above sea level. Their group consisted of 7 women celebrating their 45th birthday. Josefina writes, “The friendships and connections you develop during your time at Georgetown University, will follow you across regions and time, and quite often, they will develop beyond just professional. #Hoyasaxa”
CLASS NOTES
Jason Manning (MSFS ‘07) spent the last seven years at DOJ prosecuting foreign bribery crimes and, after 2021, crimes arising from the January 6 insurrection. He is currently volunteering with the Harris/Waltz campaign. The best book he read this year was “In the Shadows” by Mickey Bergman (MSFS ‘05).
Class of 2009
Tuqa Nusairat (MSFS ‘09) recently started a new job as the Executive Director of the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU), after a 12 year tenure at the Atlantic Council. ISPU provides objective research and education about American Muslims to support wellinformed dialogue and decision-making. Read her full bio here: https://www.ispu.org/our-staff/tuqa-nusairat/
Courtney McCreesh (MSFS ‘09) of Northern Virginia is currently pursuing membership on the UVA Greater Washington Regional Board She is also working with the Fairfax County School Board on Social Studies curricula.
Class of 2010
Sarah M. Andely (MSFS ‘10) just started her own company, Moyi Arts Concept, an arts company registered in the USA and the Republic of Congo that specializes in the importation of Congolese Fine Arts in the USA.
Class of 2011
Andrew Miller (MSFS ‘11) recently had a book published: "Silencing Citizens: How Criminal Groups Create Vacuums of Justice" (Cambridge University Press, 2024).
CLASS NOTES
Alex Snider (MSFS ‘11) has been doing some writing on humanity in government and would love for anyone interested to read and share reactions! 1) https://federalnewsnetwork. com/commentary/2024/05/the-time-for-government-to-feel-has-come/ 2) https://www. govexec.com/workforce/2024/06/embracing-authenticity-call-action-federal-employeespride-month-and-juneteenth/397414/ 3) https://federalnewsnetwork.com/commentary/ 2024/07/this-july-4th-serve-your-country-by-taking-a-break/
Avril Benchimol (MSFS ‘11) is pioneering outcome based bonds for conservation and nature impacts: rhino bond, coral bond; others to come!
Class of 2013
Fernando Heredia Noguer (MSFS ‘13) was appointed as diplomatic advisor for Spain's Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and Deputy Director General for International Affairs.
Class of 2014
Allison Maranuk (MSFS ‘14) is an Executive at Accenture Federal Services where she runs five different projects at the State Department. She specializes in applying analytics, data, AI, and IT solutions to today’s most challenging international affairs issues. In May, with her fellow Hoya Husband, she welcomed her first child, Benji. They’re living happily ever af l with their dog Woodruff.
Penny Gage (MSFS ‘14) was one of 20 scholars selected for the 2024-2026 Fulbright Arctic Initiative. Through this award, Penny (and her family) will spend 2-3 months in northern Sweden researching energy policy in 2025. This ties in with her work at Launch Alaska, a nonprofit dedicated to accelerating Alaska's energy transition. In April, Penny also had her second baby, so she and her husband Zach are busy in the early stages of parenthood!
CLASS NOTES
Class of 2017
Class of 2020
MSFS’17 alumni Jamie Gale, David Adstutia, Andrea Mendez, Teresa Eder, and Dylan Adelmen showed up for their classmate Morten Tastum on his big day, marrying Saihan Wuren in Copenhagen! Jamie writes, “friends come and go, but our Georgetown group always remains rock solid.”
Dong Ku (Koo) Lee (MSFS ‘20) was promoted to Director of the Regional Economic Organizations Division at the International Economics Bureau, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea. He oversees matters related to APEC, the WTO, WIPO, and the WCO.
In particular, as Korea prepares to ho for developing the theme, priorities, a
Miriam Frost (MSFS ‘20) writes, “Some MSFS grads recently had a reunion at the US Embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Pictured are (L-R) Brendan WilsonBarthes (MSFS '04), Southern and East Africa Senior Regional Advisor with the USAID Office of Transition Initiatives; Miriam Frost (MSFS '20), Ethiopia Deputy Country Representative with the USAID Office of Transition Initiatives; and Kirstin Yanisch (MSFS '18), Foreign Service Officer at the US State Department.”
CLASS NOTES
Class of 2021
Hythem Al-Mulla (MSFS ‘21) recently completed his first year in his new role as a Public Diplomacy Officer. Over the past year, he has also been volunteering with a start-up foreign policy research initiative, serving as Director of East Asia, alongside some of the brightest young international relations scholars from around the world.
Class of 2022
Andrew D. Olson (MSFS ‘22) is now an adjunct professor for MSFS, teaching wargame design. He also recorded a podcast with the Army Mad Scientist program on Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response, part of a recent SECDEF directed push to improve the DoD's ability to mitigate and respond to incidents of civilian harm.
Class of 2023
After swearing in as a Foreign Service Officer in September 2023, Chris Rich (MSFS’23) began his first tour as a consular officer at the US Consulate in Ciudad Juarez, MX in August 2024. Chris is excited to be working on the frontlines of US immigration while learning about the complex political and economic dynamics of the US-MX border region.
Lee Schafer (MSFS ‘23) writes, “This past summer, my family and I moved to Wiesbaden, Germany where I began a three year assignment at the U.S. Army Europe & Africa headquarters. Specifically, I work in our Plans Division as an operations planner focusing on NATO’s eastern flank. In mid-September, I participated in my HQ’s largest exercise since the Cold War, simulating NATO’s latest battle plan involving 180,000 troops. I am very fortunate to be here shortly after grad school where I can leverage my MSFS education.”
CLASS NOTES
Class of 2024
Maximo Ulloa (MSFS ‘24) a Charles B. Rangel Fellow, received his first assignment as a Foreign Service Officer with the Department of State. He will serve as an Economic Officer at U.S. Embassy Bucharest in Romania! Several other MSFS alumni also received their Flag Day results and have begun training for their posts in Algeria, Denmark, France, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and Vietnam.
Chris Mohr (MSFS ‘24) started a new job as an associate in the national security group at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher, & Flom.
A brand-new 2024 graduate, Julika Enslin started a Fellowship at the Combating Terrorism Center at West Point in September. She would love to connect with other MSFS alums about counterterrorism and meet up with anyone living in the NY area! Feel free to reach out at je713@georgetown.edu.
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 new 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.
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