2025 Keynote Speaker: Branigan McDermott Knowlton

BRANIGAN MCDERMOTT KNOWLTON

Foreign Service Officer, United States Department of State

Branigan Knowlton has built a career on embracing the unfamiliar. As a U.S. Foreign Service Officer, he has lived and worked around the world, navigating complex diplomatic challenges in Hong Kong, Mexico, Colombia, and Italy. His ability to adapt and grow in new environments has shaped his 12-year career with the U.S. Department of State, where he currently serves at the U.S. Embassy in Rome.

“I’ve actively sought opportunities that push me into the unfamiliar, even when it’s challenging,” says Knowlton, a husband and father of four. “Early on, I realized I liked being uncomfortable, because it’s in that space that I’ve truly grown — both professionally and personally.”

I REALIZED I LIKED BEING UNCOMFORTABLE, BECAUSE IT’S IN THAT SPACE THAT I’VE TRULY GROWN.

Knowlton’s path to diplomacy started at Salt Lake Community College, where he completed his general studies coursework before earning a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Communications from Utah State University. He also holds a Master’s of Public Administration degree from the University of Utah. Knowlton credits his time at SLCC with sparking his interest in government and international affairs.

“I took an American civilization course that wove the ideals I grew up with into the history of our country,” he says. “I also took a public speaking class that opened my eyes to the importance of understanding different perspectives, and a U.S. government class that helped me understand how our government’s actions impact the world.”

Before joining the State Department, Knowlton spent two years in Australia serving a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and he lived in the Philippines working for a private company. Those experiences of living abroad reinforced his passion for global engagement.

Knowlton hopes SLCC graduates will embrace the unknown, take on challenges, and find growth in the unexpected. “In life, you always want to have options, so don’t tell yourself you can only have one specific career or live in one specific place — it limits your possibilities,” he says. “Although I eventually found my ideal job, it took me a while to think beyond what was familiar to me. Never be afraid to explore outside your zip code.”