Earlier this year, the University of Georgia announced the 2023 40 Under 40 honorees. The winners include 9 graduates with SPIA degrees. 40 Under 40 celebrates young alumni leading the pack in their industries and communities. Learn more about our Honoree, United States Air Force Major, Kevin Mitchell.

What was your favorite SPIA class or favorite SPIA professor?
Favorite Class: Strategic Intelligence with Dr. Loch Johnson and most helpful was Gender, Law, and Politics with Dr. Susan Haire (for preparation for law school). Media and Politics with Dr. Audrey Haynes was fun.

What was your favorite study spot as a student?
The third or fourth floor of the SLC

What obscure thing are you talented at?
Projecting confidence

What is one weird fact or tidbit that you still remember from school?
My birthday is Jan 9, which was the day UGA desegregated (and won our most recent national championship in football).

What one superpower would you give to everyone in the world? How would the world change?
Being patient with others

Where’s the next place on your travel bucket list and why?
New Zealand… time to see where they filmed the Lord of the Rings

If you could have dinner with one famous person, living or dead, who would it be? Why?
James Madison to see what he thinks about how the Bill to Rights has been interpreted.

What is one piece of advice you have for current SPIA students?
Never be afraid to advocate for yourself or step out of your comfort zone.