alumni /iafs/ en From 麻豆原创 to Sony Ventures: IAFS Alum Scott Shane on Innovation, Law, and Global Leadership /iafs/2025/08/04/cu-boulder-sony-ventures-iafs-alum-scott-shane-innovation-law-and-global-leadership <span>From 麻豆原创 to Sony Ventures: IAFS Alum Scott Shane on Innovation, Law, and Global Leadership</span> <span><span>Eileen Brown</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-08-04T11:27:16-06:00" title="Monday, August 4, 2025 - 11:27">Mon, 08/04/2025 - 11:27</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2025-07/ong-cheng-zheng-islAPYxY-rE-unsplash.jpg?h=d627821a&amp;itok=qk0hM2_l" width="1200" height="800" alt="an-aerial-view-of-a-city-at-night"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/76" hreflang="en">alumni</a> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/38" hreflang="en">news</a> </div> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div> <div class="align-right align-left col gallery-item"> <a href="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-07/Scott%20Shane%20Headshot.jpg" class="glightbox ucb-gallery-lightbox" data-gallery="gallery" data-glightbox="description: headshot of man with a blue collared shirt on "> <img class="ucb-colorbox-square" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-07/Scott%20Shane%20Headshot.jpg" alt="headshot of man with a blue collared shirt on"> </a> </div> <p>We recently had the chance to catch up with IAFS alum Scott Shane (IAFS &amp; ECON '98), who shared his unique career journey from corporate law to entertainment and now tech investment with Sony Ventures. With a move to Tokyo on the horizon and a career rooted in global perspective and innovation, Scott offers valuable insights on pivoting across industries, building authentic networks, and embracing the unexpected.</p><p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-shane-1a1b1322/" rel="nofollow"><span><strong>Scott Shane</strong></span></a><span><strong> (IAFS &amp; ECON '98)</strong> is a Senior Investment Director at&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.sonyinnovationfund.com/" rel="nofollow"><span>Sony Ventures</span></a><span>, where he focuses on investing in early-stage technologies shaping the future of entertainment. After graduating from 麻豆原创, he earned his law degree at&nbsp;</span><a href="https://law.pepperdine.edu/" rel="nofollow"><span>Pepperdine Caruso School of Law</span></a><span> and spent eight years in corporate law before joining&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.sonypictures.com/" rel="nofollow"><span>Sony Pictures</span></a><span>. There, he worked on international mergers &amp; acquisitions, strategic investments, and cross-border transactions. Driven by his passion for innovation, Scott transitioned to venture capital in 2022, joining Sony鈥檚 global investment team. This summer, he and his family are moving to Tokyo where Scott will spend the next year working at Sony鈥檚 corporate headquarters.</span></p><hr><p><span><strong>Can you walk us through your career journey from graduating CU to your current role with Sony Ventures? What were some of the biggest turning points?</strong></span></p><p><span>After graduating from 麻豆原创, my first job was with&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.wilshire.com/" rel="nofollow"><span>Wilshire Associates</span></a><span>, an investment consulting firm that advised major pension funds, foundations, and endowments on allocating capital across private and public markets. During this time, the Internet was starting to transform industries. Inspired by that momentum, I left my corporate role to pursue entrepreneurship, launching TheBiggestGameEver.com. Unfortunately, the dot-com bubble burst not long after, and it was a humbling but important lesson in risk, timing, and resilience.</span></p><div class="ucb-box ucb-box-title-center ucb-box-alignment-right ucb-box-style-fill ucb-box-theme-lightgray"><div class="ucb-box-inner"><div class="ucb-box-title">Connect with IAFS!</div><div class="ucb-box-content"><p class="text-align-center"><em>Do you have a unique story to share with IAFS alumni and students? Email </em><a href="mailto:IAFS@colorado.edu" rel="nofollow"><em><strong>IAFS@colorado.edu</strong></em></a><em> and let us know! <span>Check out our </span></em><a href="http://www.colorado.edu/iafs/alumni-giving/alumni-spotlight" rel="nofollow"><em><span><strong>Alumni Spotlight</strong></span></em></a><em><span>&nbsp;page for more interviews with our IAFS alumni. And don't forget to visit our </span></em><a href="/iafs/alumni-giving" rel="nofollow"><em><span><strong>Alumni &amp; Giving</strong></span></em></a><em><span> page if you're looking to get involved, connect, or support IAFS.</span></em></p></div></div></div><p><span>I transitioned into executive search, joining a former Wilshire colleague to help build out a global financial services practice. We placed C-level executives across the financial sector, which gave me a deeper understanding of leadership and organizational strategy. After 2 years in executive search I felt ready to return to school, enrolling in&nbsp;</span><a href="https://law.pepperdine.edu/" rel="nofollow"><span>Pepperdine Caruso School of Law</span></a><span>. Following law school, I began my legal career in the Mergers &amp; Acquisitions (M&amp;A), Corporate, and Private Equity group at&nbsp;</span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bingham_McCutchen" rel="nofollow"><span>Bingham McCutchen</span></a><span>. There, I focused on mid-market deals, including some cross-border transactions.</span></p><p><span>A turning point came when I was seconded to&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.mitsui.com/us/" rel="nofollow"><span>Mitsui &amp; Co</span></a><span>., a major Japanese trading company. I spent 18 months on Mitsui鈥檚 legal team in Los Angeles, managing legal issues for their steel trading business and venture investments. That experience gave me my first deep exposure to Japanese business culture and shaped my understanding of how global corporations approach risk, structure deals, and build long-term value.</span></p><p><span>After returning briefly to law firm life at Bingham, I found myself drawn back to working in house and secured a position at&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.sonypictures.com/" rel="nofollow"><span>Sony Pictures</span></a><span>. At Sony Pictures, I spent several years leading legal transactions across M&amp;A, joint ventures, and strategic investments. I worked closely with business leaders to form entities in China, structure partnerships with other studios worldwide, and supported investments in early-stage companies. It was a role that gave me a front-row seat to how the entertainment industry was evolving. Over time, I realized that I wanted to play a bigger role in bringing innovation to Sony. I began sourcing opportunities on my own initiative by networking with founders and investors and attending events. Eventually, that led to a more formal role within&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.sonyinnovationfund.com/" rel="nofollow"><span>Sony Ventures</span></a><span>.</span></p><p><span>The journey hasn鈥檛 been linear, but each experience, from investment consulting and entrepreneurship to law and strategy, has built on the last. The constant has been a curiosity about how industries change, a desire to be close to innovation, and a belief in the power of building bridges between people, companies, and cultures.</span></p> <div class="align-left col gallery-item"> <a href="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-08/1.png" class="glightbox ucb-gallery-lightbox" data-gallery="gallery" data-glightbox="description: quote graphic "> <img class="ucb-colorbox-small" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-08/1.png" alt="quote graphic"> </a> </div> <p><span><strong>You鈥檙e about to move to Tokyo to work at Sony鈥檚 corporate headquarters - what excites you most about this next chapter, both personally and professionally?</strong></span></p><p><span>I鈥檝e always been drawn to global experiences, whether it was studying abroad in Spain or working in London following my semester abroad. But this next chapter feels particularly thrilling.</span></p><p><span>Professionally, I鈥檓 excited to experience working at Sony鈥檚 corporate headquarters, allowing me to further develop relationships with co-workers that until now, I鈥檝e had limited face to face time with. In addition, I鈥檓 looking forward to building relationships with start-up founders, investors, and industry leaders across Japan and broader Asia. I believe there鈥檚 an incredible opportunity to foster cross-border collaboration between Japan and the global entertainment ecosystem. I鈥檓 committed to engaging in meaningful conversations that could lead to partnerships, investment, and creative synergies. The Japanese start-up and entertainment ecosystems are on the rise, and I鈥檓 bullish on everything from anime to gaming to entertainment technology coming out of Asia, particularly Japan. There鈥檚 so much potential here, and I can鈥檛 wait to be a part of it!</span></p><p><span>On a personal level, I鈥檓 incredibly excited for my kids to experience life abroad during their middle and high school years. As a family, we鈥檙e looking forward to diving into Japanese culture and establishing new friendships.</span></p><p><span><strong>Looking back, how did your International Affairs degree help shape your worldview or approach to work - even if your path wasn't traditional "international affairs"?</strong></span></p><p><span>My International Affairs degree provided me with more than just an academic foundation, it shaped the way I approach both work and life. My degree imparted to me the importance of having a global perspective and the value of diverse opinions and experiences.</span></p><p><span>Professionally, this open-mindedness has resulted in my being able to recognize opportunities where others necessarily wouldn鈥檛. This viewpoint has been beneficial when looking at companies outside of the U.S. and in working with founders from different backgrounds.</span></p><p><span>Personally, my degree influences my societal outlook; it鈥檚 a reminder that we are all a part of a bigger community and that I have a responsibility to do my part. Over the years I鈥檝e been committed to making a meaningful difference by giving back through a variety of organizations and causes.</span></p> <div class="align-right align-left col gallery-item"> <a href="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-08/Scott%20Shane%20CU%20pic%20with%20friends.jpeg" class="glightbox ucb-gallery-lightbox" data-gallery="gallery" data-glightbox="description: Picture of Scott and his friends at Folsom Field while visiting Boulder for the 2oth anniversary of their graduation. "> <img class="ucb-colorbox-small" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-08/Scott%20Shane%20CU%20pic%20with%20friends.jpeg" alt="Picture of Scott and his friends at Folsom Field while visiting Boulder for the 2oth anniversary of their graduation."> </a> </div> <p><span><strong>Many students and early career alumni worry about needing to have their whole career path mapped out - how did you navigate uncertainty and changing interests post-graduation?</strong></span></p><p><span>I鈥檝e never been someone who had a perfectly mapped-out career path, and I鈥檝e learned that鈥檚 more than okay. Early on, my job at Wilshire Associates exposed me to the investment world and gave me access to a wide range of people on both sides of the capital equation: institutional investors and the managers they entrusted with their money. That exposure planted seeds I didn鈥檛 fully understand at the time, but it created a network I could keep coming back to.</span></p><p><span>When I launched TheBiggestGameEver.com, it was those same investors who helped fund the idea. Later, in executive search, I found myself recruiting C-level financial executives, again working within that same ecosystem. And after law school, when I was practicing M&amp;A and private equity law, I had pre-existing relationships with many of the firm鈥檚 clients, which helped me build business from day one. I eventually realized traditional law firm life wasn鈥檛 for me. However, when I moved in-house to Sony Pictures and later pivoted into venture capital, I was again drawing on that same network. What looked like pivots from the outside were often just new roles within a familiar landscape.</span></p><p><span>The takeaway: you don鈥檛 need to have all the answers right away. Focus on building strong relationships, staying curious, and recognizing that your experiences are often more connected than they seem.</span></p><p><span><strong>What skills or mindsets do you think are most valuable for students entering the workforce today, especially in globally-connected industries?</strong></span></p><p><span>This might be the Hollywood in me, but one of the most underrated skills in any industry, especially globally connected ones, is storytelling. Whether you're pitching a startup, leading a team, or interviewing for your first job, your ability to clearly and compellingly communicate your story (and the value you bring) can make all the difference.</span></p><p><span>Second, always be building your network. At every stage of your life and career, relationships matter. Friends, colleagues, people you meet at events, you never know who might open a door, become a client, or support your next venture. Don鈥檛 treat networking as transactional; be authentic as you build your community.</span></p><p><span>Work ethic also matters. Be the first to arrive and the last to leave. Show up prepared, stay curious, and go beyond what鈥檚 asked of you. That commitment is what sets you apart.</span></p> <div class="align-left col gallery-item"> <a href="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-08/3.png" class="glightbox ucb-gallery-lightbox" data-gallery="gallery" data-glightbox="description: quote graphic "> <img class="ucb-colorbox-small" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-08/3.png" alt="quote graphic"> </a> </div> <p><span>Finally, learn how to use AI and understand the tools, trends, and potential applications in your space. No matter your field, AI is reshaping how businesses operate.</span></p><p><span><strong>You鈥檝e successfully transitioned across industries - from law to entertainment to tech investment. What advice would you give students and alumni about pivoting or embracing unexpected opportunities?</strong></span></p><p><span>If there鈥檚 something you truly want, take ownership of it and pursue it relentlessly. Don鈥檛 wait for permission or expect others to open doors for you鈥攂e your own best advocate.</span></p><p><span>Be open and recognize opportunities around you. Step outside of your comfort zone, take risks, and try something new. Sometimes that means saying yes to roles that don鈥檛 come with immediate recognition or compensation. These early investments in yourself often pay off in the long run. Think long term, stay adaptable, and focus on delivering real value wherever you are. The path may not be linear, but each step can build toward something meaningful.</span></p></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Off</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle large_image_style"> <img loading="lazy" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/styles/large_image_style/public/2025-07/ong-cheng-zheng-islAPYxY-rE-unsplash.jpg?itok=GQRdBPfM" width="1500" height="2250" alt="an-aerial-view-of-a-city-at-night"> </div> </div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Mon, 04 Aug 2025 17:27:16 +0000 Eileen Brown 3826 at /iafs 麻豆原创 #2 for Peace Corps Volunteers - Plus IAFS Alumna Highlight! /iafs/2025/07/28/cu-boulder-2-peace-corps-volunteers-plus-iafs-alumna-highlight <span>麻豆原创 #2 for Peace Corps Volunteers - Plus IAFS Alumna Highlight!</span> <span><span>Eileen Brown</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-07-28T14:31:35-06:00" title="Monday, July 28, 2025 - 14:31">Mon, 07/28/2025 - 14:31</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/callout/peace_corp_1.png?h=e21c5215&amp;itok=4h-AZGC7" width="1200" height="800" alt="peace corps volunteer standing in front of crowd of children on bikes"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/76" hreflang="en">alumni</a> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/38" hreflang="en">news</a> </div> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div>[麻豆原创 Today] 麻豆原创 is ranked No. 2 in the nation for graduates serving as Peace Corps volunteers, with 39 alumni currently serving around the world. Read more about the Peace Corps, including the volunteer spotlight with IAFS/JWST Alumna Julia Leone!</div> <script> window.location.href = `/today/2025/07/23/buffs-continue-serve-ranked-no-2-nationally-peace-corps-volunteers`; </script> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Off</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Mon, 28 Jul 2025 20:31:35 +0000 Eileen Brown 3824 at /iafs Follow the New IAFS Facebook Page! /iafs/2025/05/20/follow-new-iafs-facebook-page <span>Follow the New IAFS Facebook Page!</span> <span><span>Eileen Brown</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-05-20T11:58:08-06:00" title="Tuesday, May 20, 2025 - 11:58">Tue, 05/20/2025 - 11:58</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2025-05/New%20IAFS%20Facebook.png?h=3f547f74&amp;itok=eB1ZBpcY" width="1200" height="800" alt="Graphic/decorative"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/76" hreflang="en">alumni</a> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/38" hreflang="en">news</a> </div> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div><a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573881051464#" rel="nofollow"> <div class="align-right align-left col gallery-item"> <a href="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-05/New%20IAFS%20Facebook.png" class="glightbox ucb-gallery-lightbox" data-gallery="gallery" data-glightbox="description: Graphic/decorative "> <img class="ucb-colorbox-small" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-05/New%20IAFS%20Facebook.png" alt="Graphic/decorative"> </a> </div> </a><p>The International Affairs Program has launched a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573881051464#" rel="nofollow">new official Facebook page</a> after our previous page was removed by Facebook. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573881051464#" rel="nofollow">Follow us</a> to stay updated on IAFS news, events, alumni spotlights, and more!</p><p>Help us rebuild our online community by spreading the word and sharing the new page with fellow alumni, students, and friends!</p></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Off</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Tue, 20 May 2025 17:58:08 +0000 Eileen Brown 3804 at /iafs Trailblazer in Diplomacy: Mary Ann Casey on Leadership, Legacy, and Women in International Affairs /iafs/2025/03/03/trailblazer-diplomacy-mary-ann-casey-leadership-legacy-and-women-international-affairs <span>Trailblazer in Diplomacy: Mary Ann Casey on Leadership, Legacy, and Women in International Affairs</span> <span><span>Spijkerman, Br鈥</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-03-03T07:00:00-07:00" title="Monday, March 3, 2025 - 07:00">Mon, 03/03/2025 - 07:00</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2025-02/Alum%20Award%20Taking%20The%20Oath%20of%20Office.jpg?h=fae44930&amp;itok=sbV7bspH" width="1200" height="800" alt="Mary Ann Casey, Oath of Office "> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/76" hreflang="en">alumni</a> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/38" hreflang="en">news</a> </div> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div> <div class="align-right align-left col gallery-item"> <a href="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-02/Square%20Mary%20Ann%20Casey%20Photo%20.jpg" class="glightbox ucb-gallery-lightbox" data-gallery="gallery" data-glightbox="description: Mary Ann Casey US Sixth Fleet Flagship "> <img class="ucb-colorbox-small" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-02/Square%20Mary%20Ann%20Casey%20Photo%20.jpg" alt="Mary Ann Casey US Sixth Fleet Flagship"> </a> </div> <p><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Ann_Casey" rel="nofollow">Mary Ann Casey</a> (<em>International Affairs, 1970</em>) is a retired U.S. Ambassador and an Honorary IAFS Board Member. With a distinguished career in diplomacy, she remains a dedicated supporter of IAFS students through the Casey Family Global Grant Scholarship, which helps fund study abroad opportunities for current IAFS students.</p><hr><p><strong>What sparked your interest in international affairs, and how did your time at the 麻豆原创 shape your career path?&nbsp;</strong><span>&nbsp;</span></p><p>A ten-week 鈥淕rand European Tour鈥 in my early teens proved to be a game-changer.<span>&nbsp; </span>From that moment on, I knew I was destined for a career in international affairs. CU taught me International Politics, Diplomatic History, Economic Theory, and Global Finance, as well as two foreign languages. It also helped refine my critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities. All that knowledge helped make for future success at every point along the way.&nbsp;</p> <div class="align-left col gallery-item"> <a href="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-02/Alum%20Award%20Sampling%20Traditional%20Greeting%20of%20Milk%20and%20Dates%20on%20a%20Regional%20Visit%20in%20Algeria.jpg" class="glightbox ucb-gallery-lightbox" data-gallery="gallery" data-glightbox="description: Mary Ann Casey, Regional Visit in Algeria "> <img class="ucb-colorbox-small" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-02/Alum%20Award%20Sampling%20Traditional%20Greeting%20of%20Milk%20and%20Dates%20on%20a%20Regional%20Visit%20in%20Algeria.jpg" alt="Mary Ann Casey, Regional Visit in Algeria "> </a> </div> <p><strong>Serving as the U.S. Ambassador to both Algeria and Tunisia, what were some of the most significant challenges you faced, and how did you navigate them?</strong></p><p>Overseas, good security takes priority, particularly when the political climate is volatile, as was the case in Algeria. Civil strife makes for uncertainty and complicates efforts to conduct business in a normal fashion. Finding a balanced approach depended on close collaboration with the local authorities as well as with one鈥檚 own team, including Washington-based members of that team. In Tunisia, long-standing relations offered opportunities for joint programs on multiple fronts in order to enhance bilateral interests. Likewise, promotion of political inclusivity and human rights was an important part of my portfolio. That included support for Tunisia鈥檚 vibrant women鈥檚 movement.<span>&nbsp;</span></p><p><span><strong>What advice would you offer to young women pursuing careers in international affairs and diplomacy today?</strong></span></p><p>Careers in international affairs and diplomacy offer an opportunity to make a substantive difference in life. Also, there will likely never be a dull moment. Not every profession can make such claims. Go for it! As preparation, I recommend you: A) travel as much as you can; B) seek out&nbsp;<span> </span>opportunities to demonstrate that you can live successfully in someone else鈥檚 country; C) learn to speak another language (any language will do); and D) take the Foreign Service Exam early on.</p> <div class="align-right align-left col gallery-item"> <a href="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-02/Alum%20Award%20Greeting%20Pope%20John%20Paul%20%21%21%20in%20Tunisia.jpg" class="glightbox ucb-gallery-lightbox" data-gallery="gallery" data-glightbox="description: Mary Ann Casey Greeting Pope John Paul in Tunisia "> <img class="ucb-colorbox-small" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-02/Alum%20Award%20Greeting%20Pope%20John%20Paul%20%21%21%20in%20Tunisia.jpg" alt="Mary Ann Casey Greeting Pope John Paul in Tunisia"> </a> </div> <p><strong>As we celebrate Women's History Month, how do you view the progress of women in diplomacy, and what steps do you believe are essential for advancing gender equality in this field?</strong></p><p>In the early days, US diplomats were all men. Mid twentieth century, that began to change. However, unlike their male colleagues, women who elected to marry were obliged to resign from the Foreign Service. A lawsuit eventually changed that, along with other discriminatory practices. Today, women make up about 40% of the Foreign Service, though, according to the<a href="https://afsa.org/achieving-parity-women-foreign-service" rel="nofollow"> American Foreign Service Association</a>, they continue to be less well-represented in the senior ranks (approximately 30%). Continued progress for women will depend on adequate representation in the entry and mid-level ranks, along with equitable job opportunities. On an individual level, nothing succeeds like challenging assignments, dedicated service on the front lines, and, of course, unassailable professional competency.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>You established the Casey Family Global Grants Endowment to support students studying abroad. What motivated you to create this endowment, and what impact do you hope it will have on students?&nbsp;</strong></p><p><span>As a passionate internationalist, I am keen to promote broader understanding of the world beyond the borders of the United States. What better way to accomplish that objective than by creating a scholarship to support education abroad for IAFS majors? Learning the art of global citizenry benefits the IAFS student as well as the US at large. It is the gift that keeps on giving. Hopefully, each Global Grantee will return home with a life-long ability to appreciate better the wonders and challenges of a global world.&nbsp;</span></p><hr><p><span>Visit the </span><a href="https://giveto.cu.edu/funds/?a=8403519" rel="nofollow"><span>CU Giving Page</span></a><span> and search for the <strong>Casey Family Global Grants Endowment Fund</strong> to continue Mary Ann's legacy of supporting education abroad for IAFS majors.&nbsp;</span></p></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Off</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Mon, 03 Mar 2025 14:00:00 +0000 Spijkerman, Britt (Exchange) 3773 at /iafs From CU to Spain: Sarah Wittemyer's Journey in International Affairs and Global Perspectives /iafs/2025/02/27/cu-spain-sarah-wittemyers-journey-international-affairs-and-global-perspectives <span>From CU to Spain: Sarah Wittemyer's Journey in International Affairs and Global Perspectives</span> <span><span>Spijkerman, Br鈥</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-02-27T11:33:55-07:00" title="Thursday, February 27, 2025 - 11:33">Thu, 02/27/2025 - 11:33</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2025-02/Square%20Sarah.jpg?h=a68d1c15&amp;itok=Tdr7JCIs" width="1200" height="800" alt="young woman standing on a barcelona sidewalk with trees and cars in the background."> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/76" hreflang="en">alumni</a> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/38" hreflang="en">news</a> </div> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div> <div class="align-right align-left col gallery-item"> <a href="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-02/sarah%20grad%20photo.jpg" class="glightbox ucb-gallery-lightbox" data-gallery="gallery" data-glightbox="description: sarah wittemyer "> <img class="ucb-colorbox-small" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-02/sarah%20grad%20photo.jpg" alt="sarah wittemyer"> </a> </div> <p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahwittemyer/" rel="nofollow"><span>Sarah Wittemyer</span></a><span> (</span><em><span>International Affairs, 2024</span></em><span>) is a recent 麻豆原创 graduate now pursuing a master鈥檚 degree in International Relations at the </span><a href="https://www.ibei.org/en" rel="nofollow"><span>Institut Barcelona d鈥橢studis Internacionals</span></a><span>. During her time at CU, she wrote an undergraduate honors thesis, </span><em><span>An Exclusive Entry: Analysis of the Spanish Asylum System</span></em><span>, graduated summa cum laude honors, and was a student assistant for the International Affairs Program.&nbsp;</span></p><hr><p><strong>What motivated you to pursue graduate studies in international affairs, and how has the experience been so far?</strong></p><p>I really enjoyed studying International Affairs at CU and by the time I graduated, I knew I wasn鈥檛 ready to stop being a student. I鈥檓 passionate about learning about global affairs and issues, so pursuing a Master鈥檚 in International Relations was an easy decision for me. My experience here in Barcelona has been amazing! My studies are challenging but rewarding thanks to my professions, my peers, and the academic and personal growth I鈥檝e had.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>How has studying in Spain postgrad influenced your understanding of global issues and international collaboration?</strong></p><p>Studying in Spain has broadened my understanding of global issues and international collaboration in ways I never expected. In my program of roughly 200 people, I鈥檓 among only a handful of Americans which has pushed me out of my comfort zone in so many ways and given me new perspectives. Learning about complex topics and issues in international relations with people and professors from all over the world has drastically changed my world view. I think I used to view global issues and international collaboration in straightforward, black-and-white ways but since beginning my studies, I鈥檝e started to understand how much nuance there is in these topics. The more I learn the more I realize there鈥檚 few concrete answers to some of the biggest questions in international affairs. The more you know the more you realize how much you don鈥檛 know!</p> <div class="align-left col gallery-item"> <a href="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-02/sarah%20thesis%20photo.jpg" class="glightbox ucb-gallery-lightbox" data-gallery="gallery" data-glightbox="description: Sarah Wittemyer and thesis "> <img class="ucb-colorbox-small" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-02/sarah%20thesis%20photo.jpg" alt="Sarah Wittemyer and thesis "> </a> </div> <p><strong>What skills or experiences from 麻豆原创 have been most valuable in your graduate studies?</strong></p><p>CU helped prepare me for my graduate studies in so many ways. Taking on big academic challenges such as doing the <a href="/iafs/academics/honors" rel="nofollow">IAFS Honors Program</a> taught me skills in writing, analysis, and time management which have been very applicable here. Most of my classes at CU required public speaking and class participation which were great experiences for me because my graduate classes have the same requirements! Many of my classmates come from backgrounds that didn鈥檛 require these skills which has made me grateful for those experiences at CU. The student assistant position I had with the IAFS Program at CU was one of the most valuable experiences I had as well. Learning how to work in a professional environment prepared me for the environment that comes with being a graduate student. Additionally, studying abroad before my junior year at CU helped prepare me for living in a new country and helped mitigate my culture shock. Overall, CU gave me lots of skills and experiences that have assisted me in my graduate studies!</p><p><strong>Have you encountered any unique challenges or opportunities as a woman studying and working in international affairs?</strong></p><p>There are definitely some challenges as a woman studying and working in international affairs because it is such a male-dominated field. For example, women are a minority in diplomatic positions across the world with only <a href="https://www.agda.ac.ae/docs/default-source/2023/2024-women-in-diplomacy-index-2.pdf" rel="nofollow"><span>21% of all ambassadors and representatives being women</span></a>. Everyone in my program is very kind and respectful, but in some of my classes the men generally speak more than women so it can be intimidating to make my voice heard. I notice that when a woman starts to speak up it encourages other women to speak up too, so I always do my best to participate. I think it resonates with the professors too when women talk more which has given me opportunities to make an impression and better connect with them.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What are your career aspirations, and how do you see yourself contributing to the field?</strong></p><p>My career aspirations are to work for a think tank in the field of international relations. I鈥檓 interested in working for ones that conduct research and work related to the Middle East and/or Africa especially. Think tanks help inform the public of the world around them, influence policy, and further research in specific fields which is essential in international affairs. Being a part of the work and research think tanks do is my biggest professional goal.</p><p><strong>If you could go back and give advice to yourself as a college senior, what would it be?</strong></p><p>The biggest advice I would give myself as a college senior is to relax, let things happen naturally, and enjoy the present more. I was so nervous during my senior year about the future but I鈥檝e come to realize that having high expectations and constantly worrying about what鈥檚 going to happen is counter-productive. Prepare for the future, but don鈥檛 obsess over it. There鈥檚 so much going on in the present to enjoy!</p> <div class="align-right align-left col gallery-item"> <a href="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-02/Square%20Sarah.jpg" class="glightbox ucb-gallery-lightbox" data-gallery="gallery" data-glightbox="description: young woman standing on a barcelona sidewalk with trees and cars in the background. "> <img class="ucb-colorbox-small" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/2025-02/Square%20Sarah.jpg" alt="young woman standing on a barcelona sidewalk with trees and cars in the background."> </a> </div> <p><strong>What role do you think women play in shaping the future of international affairs?</strong></p><p>Women are critical in shaping the future of international affairs! Historically, women have been portrayed to have minimal roles and agency in global politics. For example, in my classes I learned how in the 1800s the practice of international humanitarianism emerged with <a href="https://www.redcross.org.uk/stories/our-movement/our-history/five-formidable-women-who-shaped-the-red-cross" rel="nofollow"><span>Florence Nightingale</span></a>, a woman who provided humanitarian aid to soldiers during the Crimean war. She helped create modern humanitarian aid but she is largely unknown! Rather, Henry Dunant, the founder of the Red Cross, was inspired by her work and is now largely given credit as the creator of modern humanitarianism. This is changing though鈥 as women become globally empowered, their impact in global politics is astounding. Women are starting to become some of the most important thinkers, activists, researchers, diplomats, scholars, and hold many other essential positions in international affairs. There is a long way to go in empowering women across the world, but it鈥檚 clear that we are going to be pivotal in shaping the future of international affairs!</p><hr><p>Learn more about the <a href="/iafs/academics/honors" rel="nofollow">IAFS Honors Program</a> and check out the Outstanding Honors Theses!</p></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Off</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Thu, 27 Feb 2025 18:33:55 +0000 Spijkerman, Britt (Exchange) 3772 at /iafs Exploring Global Climbing Communities: Two Inspiring Short Films /iafs/2024/12/04/exploring-global-climbing-communities-two-inspiring-short-films <span>Exploring Global Climbing Communities: Two Inspiring Short Films</span> <span><span>Eileen Brown</span></span> <span><time datetime="2024-12-04T12:32:00-07:00" title="Wednesday, December 4, 2024 - 12:32">Wed, 12/04/2024 - 12:32</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/2024-12/GCI%20Photo%203.jpg?h=41f55a5b&amp;itok=ga84xGIp" width="1200" height="800" alt="Global Climbing Initiative Climbers "> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/76" hreflang="en">alumni</a> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/38" hreflang="en">news</a> </div> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div> <div class="align-right image_style-small_500px_25_display_size_"> <div class="imageMediaStyle small_500px_25_display_size_"> <img loading="lazy" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/styles/small_500px_25_display_size_/public/2024-12/GCI%20Photo%201.jpg?itok=gJc9-1Fy" width="375" height="250" alt="Climbing Sunset Photo "> </div> <span class="media-image-caption"> <p class="small-text text-align-center"><em><span>Photo by </span></em><a href="https://instagram.com/clive_clives" rel="nofollow"><em>Clive Luwanja</em></a><em><span>.</span></em></p> </span> </div> <p>The world of climbing offers more than physical challenges鈥攊t鈥檚 a force for connection, mentorship, and transformation. Created with the support of <a href="https://globalclimbing.org/" rel="nofollow">The Global Climbing Initiative (GCI)</a> (founded by <strong>IAFS alum </strong><a href="/iafs/2023/05/01/advice-non-traditional-career-veronica-baker" rel="nofollow"><strong>Veronica Baker Amores</strong></a>),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0lHkmYwCcDI" rel="nofollow"><em>Climb Malawi</em></a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UX4MIEHoPRc " rel="nofollow"><em>Powerstar</em></a> are two short films that deliver powerful stories of community and resilience. The films take viewers on breathtaking journeys into the heart of climbing communities in Malawi and India, showcasing the sport's ability to inspire and empower. Learn more about the backstories behind the films on GCI's <a href="https://globalclimbing.org/climbing-dreams-malawi" rel="nofollow">Climbing Dreams</a> and <a href="https://globalclimbing.org/powerstar" rel="nofollow">Powerstar</a> articles.&nbsp;</p><p><i class="fa-brands fa-youtube">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0lHkmYwCcDI " rel="nofollow"><em><strong>Climb Malawi</strong></em></a>&nbsp;</p><p>This documentary captures the vibrant climbing culture emerging in Malawi, a southeast African country with untapped climbing potential. The film showcases the experiences of Global Climbing Initiative trainers and local climbers participating in educational climbing workshops funded through GCI's Climbing Leadership Fund. Through stunning footage of Malawi鈥檚 mountainous landscapes and heartfelt interviews with local climbers,&nbsp;<em>Climb Malawi</em>&nbsp;highlights how climbing can foster leadership, resilience, and growth.&nbsp;</p><p><i class="fa-brands fa-youtube">&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;<a href="https://globalclimbing.org/powerstar" rel="nofollow"><em><strong>Powerstar</strong></em></a></p> <div class="align-right image_style-small_500px_25_display_size_"> <div class="imageMediaStyle small_500px_25_display_size_"> <img loading="lazy" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/styles/small_500px_25_display_size_/public/2024-12/GCI%20Photo%202.jpg?itok=cMenwlZR" width="375" height="282" alt="group climbing "> </div> <span class="media-image-caption"> <p class="text-align-center small-text"><em><span>Photo by </span></em><a href="https://www.instagram.com/moipratik/" rel="nofollow"><em>Pratik Singla</em></a><em><span>.</span></em></p> </span> </div> <p>Set in Badami, India,&nbsp;<em>Powerstar</em>&nbsp;chronicles the collaborative efforts of climbers developing new sport climbing routes in a region famed for its ancient Chalukya temples. The film tells a story of determination and innovation as a group of friends navigate obstacles, launch a crowdfunding campaign, and unite climbers from India and around the world to support the local climbing scene. Through their efforts,&nbsp;<em>Powerstar</em>&nbsp;celebrates the spirit of community and the importance of equipping future generations of climbers.&nbsp;</p><p>Both films demonstrate that climbing is not just a sport but a global movement bringing people together to learn, grow, and leave lasting legacies in their communities.&nbsp;</p><p>Read <a href="/iafs/2023/05/01/advice-non-traditional-career-veronica-baker" rel="nofollow">Advice for a Non-Traditional Career</a> to learn more about&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/verobakeramores/" rel="nofollow">Veronica Baker Amores</a>&nbsp;<i class="fa-brands fa-linkedin">&nbsp;</i>.</p></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Off</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Wed, 04 Dec 2024 19:32:00 +0000 Eileen Brown 3739 at /iafs Regents Honor Tanya Kelly-Bowry (IAFS '93) /iafs/2024/09/26/regents-honor-tanya-kelly-bowry-iafs-93-0 <span>Regents Honor Tanya Kelly-Bowry (IAFS '93)</span> <span><span>Anonymous (not verified)</span></span> <span><time datetime="2024-09-26T12:22:48-06:00" title="Thursday, September 26, 2024 - 12:22">Thu, 09/26/2024 - 12:22</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/article-thumbnail/tanya_kelly-bowry_thumbnail.preview.png?h=0a736d50&amp;itok=cNr8xfHQ" width="1200" height="800" alt="headshot of tanya with her name"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/76" hreflang="en">alumni</a> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/38" hreflang="en">news</a> </div> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default 3"> <div class="ucb-article-row-subrow row"> <div class="ucb-article-text col-lg d-flex align-items-center" itemprop="articleBody"> <div><p>University of Colorado leadership&nbsp;celebrated the career and contributions of Tanya Kelly-Bowry, CU鈥檚 longtime advocate at the state Capitol and in Washington, D.C.</p></div> </div> <div class="ucb-article-content-media ucb-article-content-media-right col-lg"> <div> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--media paragraph--view-mode--default"> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <script> window.location.href = `https://connections.cu.edu/spotlights/longtime-cu-champion-tanya-kelly-bowry-honored-board-regents`; </script> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Off</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Thu, 26 Sep 2024 18:22:48 +0000 Anonymous 3701 at /iafs Contributing聽Global Insight into Climate, Tech, and Energy: IAFS Advisory Board Member, Nancy Covey /iafs/2024/09/08/contributing-global-insight-climate-tech-and-energy-iafs-advisory-board-member-nancy <span>Contributing&nbsp;Global Insight into Climate, Tech, and Energy: IAFS Advisory Board Member, Nancy Covey</span> <span><span>Anonymous (not verified)</span></span> <span><time datetime="2024-09-08T16:48:58-06:00" title="Sunday, September 8, 2024 - 16:48">Sun, 09/08/2024 - 16:48</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/article-thumbnail/gustavo-quepon-pf_2lrjwije-unsplash.jpg?h=84071268&amp;itok=Mip_s_f8" width="1200" height="800" alt="field of sunflowers with a wind turbine"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/76" hreflang="en">alumni</a> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/38" hreflang="en">news</a> </div> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default 3"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div><p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancycovey/" rel="nofollow">Nancy Covey</a> (<em>International Affairs &amp; Political Science, 2002</em>) has been a valuable member of the <a href="/iafs/node/118" rel="nofollow">IAFS Advisory Board</a> since February 2023 and prior to that served as a mentor to IAFS students through the <a href="/iafs/node/3187" rel="nofollow">IAFS Mentorship Program</a>. We interviewed Nancy in August 2024 to learn how she has applied her 麻豆原创 education to her work in the fields of climate, tech, and energy. Read Nancy's full interview below.</p><p>Nancy co-founded and is COO at <a href="https://getquoll.com" rel="nofollow">Quoll Intelligence</a>, a New York-based company focused on helping homeowners adapt to and lower their risks from climate change. Previously, Nancy was executive director at S&amp;P Global, working in Boulder, Washington DC, London and Denver, where she was a member of the management team for the energy division. She also led&nbsp;product launches and business growth across the various energy markets, globally, and at AutoGrid, a California-based SaaS startup, where she led the go to market efforts for PR and marketing, launching the company into APAC and expanding its presence in US and European markets.</p><hr> <div class="align-right image_style-small_500px_25_display_size_"> <div class="imageMediaStyle small_500px_25_display_size_"> <img loading="lazy" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/styles/small_500px_25_display_size_/public/article-image/house_rating_graphic.jpg?itok=ZQLA1CLf" width="375" height="484" alt="house graphic with leaf as a chimney, thumbs up and stars in the middle."> </div> </div> <p><strong>What inspired you to pursue a degree in International Affairs and Political Science at 麻豆原创?</strong></p><p>Having moved abroad as a child and coming from a high school outside of the US, I developed a keen interest in knowing as much as I could about other cultures and understanding why the world works the way it does. I knew beyond just wanting to travel, I wanted to work in an international capacity after school, which meant needing to learn about other countries, their economies and political systems, customs and cultural differences, etc. IAFS and PSCI were a perfect fit to give me the background I needed to move comfortably throughout the world.</p><p><strong>How did your education at 麻豆原创 influence your career path, particularly in the energy and technology sectors?</strong></p><p>A lot of what you see in the world, whether policies, economies, politics or conflicts, revolves around natural resources and technology. My education at CU laid the foundation to grow my knowledge and understanding of how different systems and cultures influence those markets. For example, a publicly traded company operating in the US works very differently than a state-owned company in another country. Working with companies across a wide spectrum of political systems and economies require the kind of solid baseline that I developed at CU.</p><p><strong>In your professional career, you have had many leadership roles, from Director to VP to Founder and COO. If you had one piece of leadership advice to share with IAFS students and alumni, what would you share?</strong></p><p>The world around us is dynamic and in many ways, fluid. While there鈥檚 always a reason for why things are the way they are, they aren鈥檛 necessarily good or the best way forward. Always challenge the status quo. You never know what new concept or innovation will come from taking the lead in a situation and asking, 鈥淐an we do things better? And how?鈥</p><p><strong>Are there any new areas or challenges in the climate, tech, or energy spaces that you鈥檙e excited to explore in the future?</strong></p><p>I鈥檓 pretty excited about working in the confluence of all three of those topics, climate, tech, and energy, particularly in the context of real estate and the built environment. Climate risks and the ensuing financial impacts are affecting all of us, making housing unaffordable and unsustainable in some places. Addressing these challenges through technology鈥攚hether by modeling data in new ways to manage and reduce financial risk or by using technologies that mitigate physical climate risk and promote diversified energy options鈥攐ffers numerous opportunities to make our homes and communities more resilient.</p><p><strong>What drew you to join the </strong><a href="/iafs/node/118" rel="nofollow"><strong>IAFS Advisory Board</strong></a><strong>, and how do you see your role contributing to the growth and success of the Advisory Board and the IAFS Program?</strong></p><p>When the IAFS Advisory Board first launched the <a href="/iafs/node/3187" rel="nofollow">IAFS Mentorship&nbsp;Program</a> a few years ago, I had the privilege of serving as a mentor, which introduced me to the broader and amazing work the Board is doing. I was especially drawn to the mission of providing global opportunities to IAFS students. Even more so, I witnessed the incredible work of the Board in action, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for the global grant program in just a few months! Since joining, I鈥檝e served on the Global Grants, Finance, and Strategy committees. I've had the opportunity to share my experiences and collaborate with fellow Board Members to consider the changing world and how we can adapt the board鈥檚 approach to help the IAFS program continue offering opportunities that meet the evolving needs of its students.</p><p><strong>How do you see your role on the board as an extension of your commitment to mentoring the next generation of global leaders?</strong></p><p>The IAFS community is truly unique and specially positioned to help raise up the next generation of global leaders. I firmly believe that experiencing other cultures firsthand is crucial for understanding different perspectives鈥攁 quality that distinguishes global leaders. The board has a tremendous opportunity to help IAFS students gain this valuable exposure through its <a href="/iafs/node/46" rel="nofollow">Global Grants Scholarship</a>. Additionally, the <a href="/iafs/node/3187" rel="nofollow">IAFS Mentorship&nbsp;Program</a> connects students with alumni, many of whom are global leaders themselves. Having benefited from mentoring during my career, giving back has been important to me. I鈥檝e had the opportunity to tutor for many years, participate as a mentor in multiple programs, serve as a school board trustee, and even act as pitch coach for government scientists developing new solutions for humanity. Each of those opportunities has been uniquely rewarding, and serving on the IAFS Advisory Board&nbsp;is an extension of that. It鈥檚 an honor to serve on this incredible board and continue to find ways to help foster that next generation.</p><hr><p>Visit the <a href="/iafs/node/72" rel="nofollow">IAFS Alumni &amp; Giving page</a>&nbsp;to learn more about how to be involved with IAFS and the IAFS Advisory Board.</p><p>Visit the <a href="/iafs/node/2679" rel="nofollow">Global Grants Fund&nbsp;page</a>&nbsp;to learn about the scholarship, read stories from Global Grants recipients, and discover how you can support the Global Grants Fund.</p></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Off</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Sun, 08 Sep 2024 22:48:58 +0000 Anonymous 3684 at /iafs Second Annual IAFS Homecoming Reunion Tailgate - 9/21 /iafs/2024/09/04/second-annual-iafs-homecoming-reunion-tailgate-921 <span>Second Annual IAFS Homecoming Reunion Tailgate - 9/21</span> <span><span>Anonymous (not verified)</span></span> <span><time datetime="2024-09-04T12:35:29-06:00" title="Wednesday, September 4, 2024 - 12:35">Wed, 09/04/2024 - 12:35</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/article-thumbnail/iafs_homecoming_reunion_photo_collage.png?h=f950d01d&amp;itok=0i9ggjej" width="1200" height="800" alt="collage of photos taken at the first IAFS Homecoming Reunion tailgate"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/76" hreflang="en">alumni</a> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/40" hreflang="en">events</a> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/38" hreflang="en">news</a> </div> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default 3"> <div class="ucb-article-text" itemprop="articleBody"> <div><p>Join IAFS alumni and friends on <strong>Saturday, September 21st </strong>at the&nbsp;<a href="/map/?id=336#!m/193918" rel="nofollow"><strong>Koenig Alumni Center</strong></a> for the <strong>Second Annual</strong><strong>IAFS Homecoming Reunion Tailgate!</strong></p><p>Registration is free but it is <strong>limited</strong>! If you haven鈥檛 already registered for this fun, family friendly and free event 鈥 please do before registration is closed!&nbsp;</p><p class="lead text-align-center"><a class="ucb-link-button ucb-link-button-gold ucb-link-button-default ucb-link-button-large" href="https://web.cvent.com/event/f9f44214-e4ab-4c64-ad95-f24a056ab2f7/summary?RefId=web" rel="nofollow"> <span class="ucb-link-button-contents"> <strong>Register Now!</strong> </span> </a> </p><p>The tailgate is a&nbsp;fun, <strong>family friendly</strong> event with&nbsp;<strong>free&nbsp;</strong>food and beverages, photo opportunities with <strong>Chip </strong>and the CU Cheer and Dance teams, and the start of the Silver Buffalo Alumni Band parade. Check out all the other <a href="/homecoming/" rel="nofollow">2024 Homecoming activities</a>, including the <a href="/homecoming/alumniawards" rel="nofollow">Alumni Awards Ceremony</a> on September 19th from 5:45-9pm where&nbsp;<a href="/iafs/node/3679" rel="nofollow">two IAFS alumni will be honored with awards</a>!</p><p><a href="/iafs/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/article-image/iafs_homecoming_reunion_photo_collage.png?itok=LqBSAbXw" rel="nofollow"> </a></p><div class="align-right image_style-medium_750px_50_display_size_"> <div class="imageMediaStyle medium_750px_50_display_size_"> <img loading="lazy" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/styles/medium_750px_50_display_size_/public/article-image/iafs_homecoming_reunion_photo_collage.png?itok=oPuKIcdo" width="750" height="411" alt="collage of photos taken at the first IAFS Homecoming Reunion tailgate"> </div> </div> The tailgate will start <strong>two and a half hours before kickoff</strong>. Each registrant will receive one free food and beverage ticket* for themselves and each of their guests. We will have designated tables at the tailgate for IAFS alumni and friends to mingle and catch up!<br><br> Did we mention that the tailgate event is <strong>free</strong>?&nbsp;<strong>Wear white,</strong>&nbsp;join the crowd, and cheer on the <strong>Buffs </strong>as they play the Baylor Bears!<p><strong>No ticket? No problem.</strong>&nbsp;Join others on Duane Field during the <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/colorado-buffaloes-football-fans-folsom-field-food/" rel="nofollow"><strong>Fan Fest</strong></a>&nbsp;experience and watch the game live on the big screen! You'll still be able to hear the cheers, sing the Fight Song, and soak in the beautiful CU campus for the game. Fan Fest begins at 7am.&nbsp;Cashless concessions and merchandise available.<br><br><em>*Additional food and beverages will be available for purchase.</em></p></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Off</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Wed, 04 Sep 2024 18:35:29 +0000 Anonymous 3686 at /iafs IAFS Alumni Receive Awards from Alumni Association /iafs/2024/08/20/iafs-alumni-receive-awards-alumni-association <span>IAFS Alumni Receive Awards from Alumni Association</span> <span><span>Anonymous (not verified)</span></span> <span><time datetime="2024-08-20T14:35:09-06:00" title="Tuesday, August 20, 2024 - 14:35">Tue, 08/20/2024 - 14:35</time> </span> <div> <div class="imageMediaStyle focal_image_wide"> <img loading="lazy" src="/iafs/sites/default/files/styles/focal_image_wide/public/article-thumbnail/iafs_alumni_awards_2024_1.png?h=d2a7f72f&amp;itok=pOJw3Ni7" width="1200" height="800" alt="Congratulations with headshots of alumni awardees"> </div> </div> <div role="contentinfo" class="container ucb-article-tags" itemprop="keywords"> <span class="visually-hidden">Tags:</span> <div class="ucb-article-tag-icon" aria-hidden="true"> <i class="fa-solid fa-tags"></i> </div> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/76" hreflang="en">alumni</a> <a href="/iafs/taxonomy/term/38" hreflang="en">news</a> </div> <div class="ucb-article-content ucb-striped-content"> <div class="container"> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--article-content paragraph--view-mode--default 3"> <div class="ucb-article-row-subrow row"> <div class="ucb-article-text col-lg d-flex align-items-center" itemprop="articleBody"> <div><p><strong>Congratulations </strong>to International Affairs Alumni&nbsp;Tanya Mares Kelly-Bowry (IAFS '93) and Paul Beddie (IAFS '89) who received <a href="/homecoming/alumniawards" rel="nofollow">Alumni Awards from the 麻豆原创 Alumni Association</a>! Join us in celebrating Tanya, Paul, and other CU Alumni during the Alumni Awards Ceremony, Homecoming Weekend, September 19 5:45-9pm in the Glenn Miller Ballroom. <a href="https://web.cvent.com/event/f9f44214-e4ab-4c64-ad95-f24a056ab2f7/summary?RefId=web" rel="nofollow">Register for the Alumni Awards Ceremony</a> along with the IAFS Alumni Homecoming Reunion Tailgate!&nbsp;</p><h2>George Norlin Award - Tanya Mares Kelly-Bowry (IAFS '93)</h2><blockquote><p>Tanya Mares Kelly-Bowry embodies the ideals of the George Norlin Award and her legacy of excellence, advocacy and mentorship continues to inspire those around her. Tanya鈥檚 journey from a young Latina student at CU to a prominent lobbyist and community leader is inspirational. Her innovative achievements, lifelong relationships and commitment to public service have left a lasting impact.</p></blockquote><h2>Alumni Recognition Award - Paul Beddie (IAFS '89)</h2><blockquote><p>With a focus on global citizenship, Paul Beddie's connection and commitment to 麻豆原创 have remained steadfast throughout his illustrious international career. His service and leadership demonstrate dedication to the university, making him an ideal recipient of the Alumni Recognition Award.&nbsp;</p></blockquote><p>Read more in the Coloradan Alumni Magazine article <a href="/coloradan/2024/07/16/alumni-awards-celebrating-legacy-forever-buffs" rel="nofollow">Alumni Awards: Celebrating the Legacy of Forever Buffs</a> (July 16, 2024).</p></div> </div> <div class="ucb-article-content-media ucb-article-content-media-right col-lg"> <div> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--media paragraph--view-mode--default"> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <h2> <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--ucb-related-articles-block paragraph--view-mode--default"> <div>Off</div> </div> </h2> <div>Traditional</div> <div>0</div> <div>On</div> <div>White</div> Tue, 20 Aug 2024 20:35:09 +0000 Anonymous 3679 at /iafs