Pardee Works: Women & Careers at the State Department
In honor of Women’s History Month, the Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies at Boston University hosted a Pardee Works event on career opportunities for women at the United States Department of State on March 26, 2021.
The event was introduced by Pardee School alumni and Diplomat in Residence of New England Bill Gannon (MAIA ’98) and was moderated by Professor Mark C. Storella, Professor of the Practice of Diplomacy at the Pardee School. The panel featured distinguished women in the foreign and civil service, including: Michele Sison, United States Ambassador to Haiti; Melissa Ledesma-Leese, Deputy Advisor for Diversity and Inclusion, Bureau of Global Talent Management; Anood Taqui, Trade Officer, U.S. Mission to the European Union in Brussels; and Grace Yoo, Staff Aide to the Chargé d’affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Berlin.
The panelists discussed their enthusiasm for foreign service, their career journeys in the State Department, and the importance of diversity at the agency – both in recruitment and retention at senior levels. They agreed that the agency is committed to diversity and inclusion, and senior leadership – including Secretary of State Antony Blinken – are making it a part of every conversation.
Students were encouraged to believe in themselves and their abilities as well as find mentors who will be willing to support their career goals. Attending students also asked for advice on how to get into the foreign service and pursue mentors to which the panelists said that there is no direct path; however, by being adaptable and pursuing internships and fellowships in international relations and government, students can have a successful path forward at the agency.
A recording of the event can be viewed below.
The Pardee Works series focuses on bringing professionals currently working in the diverse field of global studies to present for and network with Pardee School students. In addition to the annual Pardee Works career symposium, recent Pardee Works talks have covered topics including working in the national security and defense industries, women in U.S. national security, career opportunities at the CIA and DIA, and careers with the U.S. Department of Commerce.