Ambassadors serve at the pleasure of the Dean of the School to bolster SPIA’s reputation with external constituencies, such as alumni, donors, prospective students, and citizens of the local, state, and global community. They do this by assisting with events, participating in efforts to build philanthropic support, and promoting the School in their personal and professional networks. In serving as an ambassador, students gain a greater understanding of the School and its priorities and have access to exclusive opportunities to interact with notable alumni and donors throughout the year.
2026-2027 Ambassador Application Timeline:
March 2: Launch Applications
March 16: Close Applications
March 23-April 3: Interviews via Zoom
Decisions Made: April 15
2026-2027 Ambassadors
Emmanuella Akang
Major: International Affairs
Minor: Law, Ethics, & Philosophy
Emmanuella Akang is a fourth-year student originally from Warri, Nigeria. She moved to Georgia at the age of 10 and currently resides in Marietta. Emmanuella is majoring in International Affairs with a minor in Law, Philosophy, and Ethics. On campus, she is actively involved with The Red & Black newspaper, the Black Pre-Law Association, UGA Miracle, and several other organizations. After completing her undergraduate studies, she plans to attend law school and pursue a career in human rights law, with a focus on African countries. Emmanuella is honored to serve as a 2026–27 SPIA Ambassador and looks forward to further engaging with the SPIA community!
Kailyn Anthony
Major: Political Science and History
Minors: Spanish and Law, Jurisprudence, & the State ; Certificate: Applied History
Kailyn is a third-year studying Political Science and History, and is a part of the first cohort of the Applied History certificate. On campus, she is involved in the Student Government Association (SGA) serving as an At-Large Senator representing the whole of the student body, as well as a Student Representative on University Council, a competitor on UGA’s Undergraduate Mock Trial Team, and as a Student Assistant at the UGA’s Hargrett Rare Book and Manuscript Library. This past summer, she was fortunate enough to study abroad with UGA at Oxford University, where she was able to study politics and law in a comparative framework. Off campus, she has been heavily involved working with Athens-Clarke County Government, both as an intern and a volunteer, and serving the greater Athens community through her work alleviating homelessness and food insecurity with The Backpack Project. She is passionate about connecting with others and serving her fellow SPIA students to the best of her ability! After graduation, she plans to attend law school and pursue a career as a constitutional civil rights and liberties attorney.
Ariella Ayenesazan
Major: Political Science and Economics
Minors: Jewish Studies, Hebrew Language and Literature, & Law, Jurisprudence, and the State / Applied Politics Certificate
Ariella Ayenesazan is a third-year student at the University of Georgia pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Economics, with minors in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State, and Hebrew, as well as a certificate in Applied Politics. She is actively involved on campus as part of the Student Government Association, Professional Clothing Closet, Hopelessly Yellow, and her sorority Sigma Delta Tau. In summer 2026, she studied abroad in Morocco through SPIA, exploring topics in Middle Eastern politics and global affairs. Ariella is passionate about public service, with particular interests in housing policy and civil rights, and plans to attend law school after graduation.
Daniel Bartello
Majors: Political Science; International Affairs
Certificate: Public Affairs Professional Certificate in Applied Politics
Daniel Bartello is a fourth-year student from Covington, Georgia, majoring in Political Science and International Affairs, with a certificate in Applied Politics. On campus, he is a member of the Student Alumni Council (SAC) and the Student Government Association (SGA). He also serves as a research assistant for the Political Science Department and contributes as a writer for both the Undergraduate Law Review and The Red & Black. In addition, Daniel is actively involved in a campus ministry and is a proud participant in the TRIO program. This past summer Daniel Interned at the Supreme Court of the United States. He plans to attend law school after graduation to become a Law Professor. Until then, he is honored to serve the SPIA student body.
Anya Biawas
Majors: International Affairs and French
Minor: German
Anya Biswas is a third-year Honors student from Johns Creek, Georgia, majoring in International Affairs and French with a minor in German. At UGA, she was on the Housing Insecurity Policy Center Team with the Arch Policy Institute. Anya is a member of Pi Delta Phi, the National French Honor Society, and enjoys participating in German Student Organization events. She is also on the Women’s Club Ultimate Frisbee Medusa Team on campus. In summer of 2025, Anya studied French through the UGA en France program, while living with a host family in Montpellier, France. During spring semester 2026, she studied abroad at the Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich, Germany. While in Munich, she interned for the Georgia Department of Economic Development Europe Office. Anya is excited to stay involved on campus and support fellow students as a SPIA Ambassador.
Parker Buckroyd
Majors: Political Science & International Affairs
Minors: Law, Jurisprudence, and the State; Spanish
Parker is a third-year Honors student from Dallas, Texas, on the pre-law track while majoring in Political Science and International Affairs with a minor in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State. Parker is involved with various groups on campus, including Kappa Kappa Gamma, and the Undergraduate Law Review. Parker enjoys volunteering within the Athens community, where she frequently serves at the Sandy Creek Nature Center and the Brooklyn Cemetery clean-up. She is expected to graduate in May 2028 and aspires to attend law school following graduation. Parker also desires to study abroad in her upcoming years through SPIA’s various unique programs. She looks forward to serving as a 2026-27 ambassador!
Terin Butler
Majors: Political Science
Terin is a fourth-year student from Braselton, Georgia, majoring in Political Science. She serves as a SWAB Ambassador, where she supports and mentors elementary school students in the Athens community. She is also an active member of the Black Pre-Law Student Association.She enjoys volunteering and giving back to her community, including her time at the Bigger Vision Homeless Shelter. She plans to attend law school with the goal of becoming an attorney. She is excited to serve as a SPIA Ambassador and looks forward to representing and connecting with the SPIA community.
Jane Cantrell
Majors: International Affairs; Linguistics
Minor: International Human Rights & Security
Certificate: Certificate in Data Analytics in Public Policy
Jane Cantrell is a third-year Honors student from Flowery Branch, GA. She is majoring in International Affairs with minors in Political Science, Linguistics, and International Human Rights and Security, as well as a certificate in Data Analytics in Public Policy. In addition to being a SPIA Ambassador, she is participating in the GLOBIS Human Rights Research Lab and is a member of the Demosthenian Literary Society. She has also worked as a Peer Learning Assistant for International Law. She plans to attend law school after graduation to pursue a career in international law and global governance. Jane is thrilled to return as a SPIA Ambassador for a second year.
John Michael Carter
Majors: International Affairs & Political Science
John Michael Carter is a third-year International Affairs and Political Science student from Milton, Georgia. On campus, he is involved in the Wesley Foundation, Pi Sigma Alpha honor society, and the 11th cohort of the Applied Politics program, with a part-time job at a local Athens restaurant. He loves drinking coffee, trying new restaurants, and going on walks in his free time. He wants to pursue a career in government relations or possibly national security after graduation, but has an open mind. He hopes to study abroad while at UGA, and hopes to maximize every opportunity available. He loves SPIA and takes every chance to tell other people about the college, so he is thrilled to serve in this role!
Mateo Ceron
Majors: Political Science, International Affairs
Minor: Spanish
Mateo is a fourth-year Political Science and International Affairs major, with a minor in Spanish from Cumming, GA. He is expected to graduate in 2027, and aspires to attend law school and pursue a career in public policy. On campus, he is a part of the UGA Model United Nations team, where he travels to compete in conferences on the national collegiate circuit. He is also a Peer Learning Assistant and works at the bookstore! This is his first year as a SPIA ambassador, and he is looking forward to giving back to the SPIA community and extremely excited for the opportunity to represent SPIA.
Ella Chapman
Majors: Political Science & Economics
Minor: French
Ella Chapman is a third-year student at the University of Georgia from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, majoring in Political Science and Economics with a minor in French. At UGA, she serves as a Senator in the Student Government Association, the VP of Membership and Outreach for the First Generation Law Society, is a member of the Kappa Alpha Pi Pre-Law Fraternity, and is a returning SPIA Ambassador. She is also the Make-a-Wish Chair for Chi Omega and volunteers weekly at the Extra Special People Foundation. This past summer, she studied International Affairs and Politics in Paris through UGA and completed her second internship with the U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy’s Office. She plans to move to D.C. after graduation to either work on Capitol Hill or attend law school there. She is excited and honored to serve as a SPIA Ambassador for the 2026-2027 school year!
Sophie Dechant
Majors: Political Science; Economics
Minor: International Affairs
Sophie Dechant is a fourth-year student from Alexandria, Virginia, studying Political Science and Economics with a minor in International Affairs. In addition to being a SPIA Ambassador, she serves as the Chief of Staff for Representative Spencer Frye, PROPEL Rural Scholar with the UGA Institute of Government, and the Director of Leadership for Pi Beta Phi. Last year, Sophie worked with English for All as a teaching assistant for an English class for Korean diplomats completing a SPIA program. She is also taking courses in the Master of International Policy at UGA through the Double Dawgs Program. This is her second year as a SPIA Ambassador, and she is excited to continue representing and giving back to this amazing school, Go Dawgs!!!
Addison Denney
Majors: Political Science
Certificate: Political Science
Addison is a third-year student from Cumming, Georgia, majoring in Political Science and pursuing the Double Dawgs MPA program. On campus, she has participated in many organizations and serves as the Political Director for the Spencer Frye Fellowship. Her professional experience includes interning for State Reps Romman, Campbell, and Frye, as well as working as a call time manager for various campaigns. She currently serves as the Volunteer Coordinator for an HD47 campaign. Following graduation, she hopes to work in a congressional office in Washington, D.C. Addison is very excited to serve as a 2026-27 SPIA Ambassador!
Suhani Dey
Majors: International Affairs; Political Science
Minor: Law, Jurisprudence, and the State
Certificate: Public Affairs Professional Certificate in Applied Politics
Suhani Dey is a fourth-year student from Cumming, GA, double majoring in International Affairs and Political Science. She is also pursuing a minor in Law, Jurisprudence, and Public Affairs, as well as a Professional Certificate in Applied Politics. As a member of the UGA Model United Nations team, Suhani travels and competes on the national collegiate circuit.
This summer, she interned in D.C. through the Grady D.C. program. Suhani plans pursue a career in public policy and government affairs. She is excited to serve as a SPIA Ambassador for the 2026–27 school year!
Esha Dhungana
Majors: International Affairs; Political Science
Minor: Law, jurisprudence, and the state; Spanish
Certificate: professional certificate in applied politics and global studies
Esha is a third-year undergraduate student double majoring in International Affairs and Political Science, with minors in Spanish and Law, Jurisprudence, and the State. She is a member of the 11th cohort of the Applied Politics Program and is also pursuing a certificate in Global Studies. As a pre-law student, Esha is actively involved in organizations such as Kappa Alpha Pi, the Arch Policy Institute Housing Insecurity Center, and The Arch Political. Additionally, she is a part of the UGA HEROs’ Hangout with HEROs mentor program. This past summer, she interned at a nonprofit refugee organization, where she helped manage ongoing community programs. After graduation, Esha plans to attend law school and pursue a career in international law.
Allie Edwards
Majors: Political Science
Minor: Law, Jurisprudence, and the State
Allie is a second-year student from Roopville, Georgia, majoring in political science with a minor in law, jurisprudence, and the state. On campus, she is a member of the American Society of Law, Medicine, and Ethics; Experience UGA; and Gamma Phi Beta. She also enjoys volunteering in the broader Athens community as an intern at Extra Special People, as well as a volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, Athens PB&Js, and Prince Avenue Baptist Church. Upon graduation, she plans on attending law school. She is excited for the opportunity to be a SPIA Ambassador and hopes to serve as a connection for both new students and the greater Athens community.
Samantha Elliott
Majors: Political Science and Economics
Minor: Law, Jurisprudence, and the State
Samantha is a third-year student from Baltimore, Maryland, majoring in Political Science and Economics, with a minor in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State. On campus, she serves on the executive council of Alpha Gamma Delta as the Vice President of New Member Experience, Captain, and Outreach Chair on the UGA Women’s Club Volleyball Team, and a Greek Fellow for the Emerging Greek Leaders Program. This summer, she is pursuing an internship within Global Distribution RPS Client Services at the global investment management firm, T. Rowe Price. Upon graduating from UGA, she plans to attend law school and pursue a career focused on the intersection of government and business. She is so excited to serve as an SPIA ambassador for the 2026-2027 school year!
Sadie Eubanks
Majors: Political Science; International Affairs; Economics
Minor: Spanish
Certificate: Sustainability
Sadie Eubanks is a third-year honors student from Athens, Georgia, majoring in International Affairs, Political Science, and Economics with a minor in Spanish and a certificate in Sustainability. On campus Sadie serves as an EcoRep for the department of housing promoting sustainable initiatives on campus. She is also a research assistant in the Economics department under Professor David B. Mustard investigating religious freedom violations. Sadie is a fellow in the Security Leadership Program where she studies international and national security and aims to work in international trade relations post-grad. Additionally, she is a tutor for the Athens Prison Tutorial and a professional aerial dancer at Canopy Studios.
Anu Fawehinmi
Majors: Political Science, International Affairs, Economics
Minor: German, Certificates in Applied Politics and Personal and Organizational Leadership Studies
Anu Fawehinmi is a third-year Honors student from Dacula, Georgia, studying Political Science, International Affairs, and Economics with a minor in German and certificates in Applied Politics and Personal and Organizational Leadership. Outside of being a SPIA Ambassador, he is UGA’s Model United Nations Team’s Finance Director and a competition delegate, a tour guide at the Visitors Center, and a staff writer for the Georgia Political Review. After graduation, Anu plans to attend law school and work in public policy. Until then, he is excited and honored to serve as a SPIA Ambassador!
Rebecca Harmon
Majors: Master of Public Administration
Rebecca Harmon is a second-year graduate student pursuing her Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree with a specialization in Public Budgeting and Financial Management from Augusta, Georgia. She currently serves as a Graduate Assistant on campus. She graduated with her undergraduate degree in economics from UGA in the spring of 2025 and decided to pursue the MPA program with hopes of working in education policy. During her undergraduate studies, she participated in the Washington Semester Program and held roles in the UGA University Transitions Office and Office of Service-Learning, focusing on encouraging student success and connecting fellow students with campus resources.
Dayani Hernandez
Majors: Political and International Affairs
Minor: Law, Ethics, and Philosophy
Dayani Hernandez is a fourth-year student from Villa Rica, Georgia, pursuing a degree in Political Science and International Affairs with a minor in Law, Ethics, and Philosophy, on the Pre-Law track. While at UGA, she has studied abroad at the University of Oxford in Oxford, United Kingdom and in Cortona, Italy. In the spring of 2026, she participated in the Washington Semester Program where she was an intern investigator for Georgetown Law Center’s Criminal Justice Clinics. After graduation, Dayani plans to go to law school and pursue a career in advocacy-centered work, focusing on social justice and legal reform.
Hayden Hulsey
Majors: Political Science; Public Relations
Minor: Law, Jurisprudence, and the State
Certificate: Public Affairs Communications
Hayden Hulsey is a fourth-year student from Clarkesville, Georgia, majoring in Political Science & Public Relations with a minor in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State and a certificate in Public Affairs Communications. He is currently involved in the Student Alumni Council, the Wesley Foundation, Pi Sigma Alpha Political Honors Society, and the Public Relations Student Society of America. After graduation, he aspires to attend law school and pursue a career as a lawyer. He is excited to serve the SPIA community and expand his perspectives as a 2026-27 ambassador.
Katie Hunt
Major: International Affairs & Portuguese
Minor: Politcal Science
Katie Hunt is a third-year student from Kennesaw, Georgia, majoring in International Affairs and Portuguese with a minor in Political Science. Katie is a student in the Portuguese Flagship Program, and going on a study abroad program in Salvador, Brazil. On campus she is a fellow in the Richard B. Russell Security Leadership Program, she works as President of Women in SPIA and serves on the outreach committee in Relay for Life. In her free time, she loves working as a barista at Daydreamer. Katie wants to pursue a career in national security with a focus in Latin America. She is excited to represent the amazing school of SPIA and all the great students within it as an ambassador.
Sanya Jani
Major: Political Science and Finance
Sanya Jani is a second-year student from Cumming, Georgia, majoring in Political Science and Finance. On campus, she is involved in the Young Democrats of UGA, Arch Policy Institute, Society of Government Relations, and the Backpack Project. In Spring 2026, Sanya acted as the Social Media Director for Dr. LaKeisha Gantt’s mayoral campaign in Athens. Additionally, Sanya works as a Desk Assistant for University Housing at Brumby Hall. In her free time, she enjoys hanging out with friends, watching movies, and playing guitar. With SPIA, Sanya plans on participating in the Washington Semester Program and aims to study abroad in Oxford. In the future, she plans on attending law school. Sanya is thrilled to serve as a connection between SPIA and the larger UGA community!
Hannah Jones
Majors: Political Science; International Affairs
Minors: Ecology
Hannah Jones is a third-year Foundation Fellow and Stamps Scholar from Calhoun, Georgia, double majoring in Political Science and International Affairs at the University of Georgia. She serves as a tour guide for the Visitors Center and as the Director of First Year Programs in the Student Government Association. Hannah is a member of the Arch Society, Model United Nations team, and a participant in the Applied Politics Program. Over the summer, she teaches marine biology and beach ecology to youth across Georgia at 4-H Camp on Jekyll Island, where she serves as a Leadership Counselor. This experience inspired her to conduct CURO research on public opinion surrounding climate change and to add a minor in ecology. Through SPIA’s mentorship program, she has connected with and shadowed accomplished alumni in their careers. After graduation, Hannah plans to pursue nonprofit work focused on helping rural communities address environmental challenges.
Cole Jones
Major: International Affairs, Political Science, Religion
Cole Jones is a second-year undergraduate Honors student majoring in International Affairs, Political Science, and Religion from Atlanta, Georgia. He serves as an ambassador for the UGA Department of Religion and is involved with multiple student organizations across campus, including as Worship Student Minister for The Table Athens, and as a singer for University Chorus and A.A.C.E. He also serves as a student researcher for the Benson-Bertsch Center for International Trade & Security, focusing on the impact of geopolitical risk on global supply chains. He is interested in all things related to the political and religious history of the Southern United States, and hopes to further dive into that passion at UGA. After graduation, Cole hopes to pursue a career in public service within the federal government.
Shivani Kapadia
Majors: Political Science
Minors: Criminal Justice, Law, Jurisprudence, and the State
Shivani Kapadia is a fourth-year Honors student from Donalsonville, Georgia, majoring in Political Science with a minor in Criminal Justice and Law, Jurisprudence, and the State. She interned at the Office of the Public Defender for the Pataula Judicial Circuit for the past two years and is currently a civil litigation runner at Cowsert Heath, LLP. At UGA, Shivani is a Campus Life senator for the Student Government Association, a brief writer and oral advocate for the Undergraduate Moot Court Team, an active staff writer for the Georgia Political Review, and a Service Ambassador for ServeUGA. Upon graduation, she expects to attend law school. Shivani is excited to represent SPIA!
Kelly Larkin
Major: Political science, International affairs (concentration in security), sociology
Kelly is a fourth-year student pursuing degrees in sociology, political science and international affairs. She is actively involved in several academic and professional organizations, including Pi Sigma Alpha, Young Democrats of UGA and Phi Sigma Alpha. Through her coursework and involvement, she has developed a strong interest in global issues, with a particular curiosity about regional dynamics in the Middle East.
As a SPIA Ambassador, Kelly is excited to represent SPIA during its 25th anniversary year and to connect with prospective students, alumni and the broader community. She plans to attend law school following graduation and hopes to pursue a career focused on international law or human rights. Outside of academics, she enjoys reading, keeping up with current events and traveling to explore new places.
Colin Lemaistre
Majors: International Affairs, French Studies
Minor: Political Science, International Human Rights and Security
Colin Lemaistre is a 4th-year student from Cumming, Georgia, with majors in International Affairs and French, as well as minors in Political Science and International Human Rights & Security. Colin is a fellow of the Security Leadership Program, UGA’s Model United Nations Team, is a service ambassador with ServeUGA, a staff writer for Georgia Political Review, and is the social events coordinator for Pi Delta Phi. He has studied abroad in Benin, France, and Morocco. He is extremely grateful for the opportunities SPIA has given him, and is so excited to continue representing the greatest school on campus!
Nico Lyon
Majors: International Affairs, Economics
Nico Lyon is a fourth-year student originally from Atlanta Georgia, but calls Pretoria, South Africa home now. He is studying International Affairs as well as Economics here at the University of Georgia. On campus, Nico is currently serving as the Attorney General to the Student Government Association and volunteers with the Professional Clothing Closet. Beyond this, he is a Social Media Ambassador for the University. In the past, Nico has worked with the U.S. State Department as a Political Affairs Intern at the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria. In his free time, he enjoys wildlife photography and traveling. After his studies, Nico plans to pursue a career in Economics and Politics. He is extremely excited to serve as a 2026-2027 SPIA Ambassador and represent such an incredible community.
Isadora Macedo
Majors: International Affairs, A.B. Economics
Certificate: Sustainability Certificate
Isadora is a second-year student from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania double majoring in International Affairs and Economics and pursuing a certificate in Sustainability. At UGA, she is currently involved in Tri Delta, Alpha Kappa Psi, and UGA Women’s Club Volleyball, and ALPFA. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, listening to music, and exploring new parts of Athens! After graduation, she hopes to pursue a career in energy security or sustainable development. Isadora is grateful and excited for the opportunity to represent SPIA this year!
Anishka Manavalan
Majors: Political Science, Finance
Certificate: Certificate in Legal Studies
Anishka Manavalan is a third-year student at the University of Georgia majoring in Finance and Political Science on the pre-law track. On campus, she serves as a University Judiciary Advisor/Advocate, helping students navigate the conduct process and promoting awareness of the Code of Conduct. She is also the Vice President of Administration for the Multicultural Greek Council and a member of Alpha Sigma Rho Sorority, where she is involved in campus programming and community engagement. Additionally, Anishka is involved in Kappa Alpha Pi Pre-Law Fraternity and Women in Finance. Through her involvement, she is passionate about fostering community and supporting student engagement at UGA.
Maurisa Marcelin
Majors: Political Science and International Affairs
Maurisa Marcelin is a fourth-year student from Dacula, Georgia, double-majoring in Political Science and International Affairs with a minor in Spanish. She aspires to attend law school after graduation. Maurisa currently serves as the treasurer for the Caribbean Student Association and serves with her on-campus ministry. She had the opportunity to intern at an Immigration Law Firm for the past few summers. Maurisa is very excited to represent and serve as a SPIA Ambassador this year!
Nishtha Mayani
Majors: Criminal Justice, Political Science, and Sociology
Minor: Law jurisprudence and the state
Nishtha Mayani is a third-year student from Acworth, Georgia triple majoring in Criminal Justice, Political Science, and Sociology on the pre-law track with a minor in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State. She is involved in UGA’s Student Government Association as an Executive Director in Cabinet, Dean William Tate Honors Society, Model United Nations, and Kappa Alpha Pi pre-law fraternity. In the Summer, Nishtha had the opportunity to travel to Liverpool on a Criminal Justice study abroad. With the hope of becoming a criminal defense lawyer, Nishtha is inspired by global security and policy and legislation, and how that affects people on a day-to-day level. SPIA has given Nishtha incredible study abroad opportunities, engaging classes, and a tight knit community to lean on throughout her past few years at UGA. Nishtha is ecstatic to give back to a community that continues to serve her as a SPIA ambassador!
Flora Mendoza
Majors: Political Science, International Affairs, French
Certificate: Certificate in Data Analytics in Public Policy
Flora Mendoza is a third-year honors student from Alpharetta, Georgia, pursuing a degree in Political Science, International Affairs, and French. She is also completing a certificate in Data Analytics in Public Policy. On campus, she is a part of the Model United Nations as well as the Arch Policy Institute Education Center. She works as a Peer Learning Assistant for an Intro to International Affairs Course. Recently, she also became a fellow for the Security Leadership Program. After graduation, Flora hopes to attend graduate school. She is thrilled to have this opportunity and cannot wait to serve as an ambassador for SPIA!
Alizah Mudaliar
Majors: Political Science, International Affairs
Minor: Health Policy and Management
Certificate: Data Analytics in Public Policy
Alizah Mudaliar is a third-year Honors student from Smyrna, GA, double majoring in Political Science and International Affairs. She is also pursuing a minor in Health Policy and Management as well as a Certificate in Data Analytics in Public Policy. She is a member of the UGA Model United Nations team, staffing UGA’s collegiate and high school conferences. She is also an Assistant Editor and Staff Writer for the Georgia Political Review and Treasurer of the Happy Little Accidents Art Club. She serves as an Honors Teaching Assistant for the first-year Honors students. She plans to attend law school and pursue a career in public health administrative law. She looks forward to serve as a SPIA Ambassador and give back to the SPIA community!
Meghan Mundy
Majors: Master of Public Administration
Meghan Mundy is a second year Master of Public Administration student within the School of Public and International Affairs, and she holds a Bachelor’s degree in History from the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences with a minor in Latinx Studies and a Bachelor’s degree in International Affairs from SPIA (May 2025). Within her SPIA career, Meghan has studied abroad at the University of Oxford, interned through the SPIA Emerging Leaders Internship Program at Historic Athens 501(3)(c) Nonprofit Organization, and presently works as a Graduate Research Assistant at the UGA Carl Vinson Institute of Government. Meghan hopes to use her position as a SPIA Ambassador to promote greater involvement among SPIA’s graduate students in UGA SPIA branded events, and she also hopes to serve as a mentor to undergraduates who are interested in leading a future career in public service. Once completing her MPA, Meghan hopes to lead a future career in higher education administration with an emphasis in research.
Nayha Murugan
Majors: International Affairs, Economics, Spanish
Minor: Law, Jurisprudence, and the State
Nayha Murugan is a third year from Marietta, Georgia, studying International Affairs, Spanish, and Economics. While at UGA, Nayha is involved in the Student Government Association, Mock Trial, and the Demosthenian Literary SocietyThis past summer, she studied abroad in Seville, Spain with the UGA en España program. After graduating, she hopes to attend law school. She is incredibly excited to serve as a SPIA Ambassador and is excited to serve her school.
Sophia Nguyen
Majors: International Affairs, Art History
Minor: Anthropology; European Studies; Human Rights & Security; Law, Jurisprudence & the State; Swahili
Certificate: African Studies, Global Studies, Global Education & Leadership
Sophia Nguyen is a rising fourth-year student and Foundation Fellowship recipient from Duluth, Georgia. She has studied abroad at Oxford and with SPIA’s Ireland and Morocco programs, where she conducted research on repression and the politics of museum curation. While she continues this research at the GLOBIS Human Rights Lab, Sophia is also involved with several organizations including the Lamar Dodd Ambassadors, Georgia Political Review, Office of Global Engagement, the Walter J. Brown Media Archives, and the Georgia Museum of Art. Dedicated to human rights and cultural preservation, Sophia hopes to attain her Master’s in Cultural Heritage. Afterward, she will return to law school and study international law, art law, and cultural heritage law. She is honored to return as an ambassador supporting SPIA!
Eliza Jane Null
Majors: Political Science, International Affairs
Minor: Law, Jurisprudence, and the State; Business
Eliza Jane Null is a third-year Honors student from Little Rock, Arkansas, majoring in Political Science and International Affairs on the pre-law track. On campus, Eliza Jane serves as Vice President of Philanthropy for Kappa Alpha Pi Pre-Law Fraternity and as Co-Managing Editor of The Arch Political, and is also a member of Chi Omega Fraternity. Eliza Jane also works part-time as a file clerk at Fortson, Bentley and Griffin, P.A. This past summer, she served as an intern in U.S. Congressman French Hill’s district office in Little Rock. Upon graduation, she plans to attend law school and pursue a career in international law and human rights advocacy.
Gabriela Null
Majors: Majors: Political Science and English
Minor: Law, Jurisprudence, and the State
Gabriela is a fourth-year student from Atlanta, Georgia, double-majoring in Political Science and English with a minor in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State. At UGA, she is actively involved in the Kappa Alpha Pi Pre-Law Fraternity, volunteers with the Athens Community Council on Aging, and has served as the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the Mu Beta Chapter of Chi Omega. Last year, Gabriela gained valuable legal experience as a clerk at a medical malpractice firm and had the opportunity to study literature abroad at the University of Oxford in Oxford, England. For the summer of 2026, Gabriela will serve as a Congressional Intern under U.S. Representative Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (GA-1) in his Washington, D.C. office. Following graduation, she plans to attend law school and pursue a career in litigation. Gabriela is extremely grateful for this opportunity and excited to serve her community while representing the College of SPIA.
Lydia O’Neill
Majors: International Affairs
Minor: International Human Rights and Security; Art History
Certificate: Museum Studies
Lydia is a second-year student from Buford, Georgia. She is on the pre-law track, with a major in international affairs, a minor in International Human Rights and Security, a minor in Art History, and a certificate in Museum Studies. She is also a Presidential Scholar. Lydia was in the cohort of the SPIA GLOBIS Study Abroad in Scotland in the summer of 2026. She is the Communications Director for the Young Democrats of UGA. She is also a student guide at the Georgia Museum of Art here on campus, where she gives public tours on a theme of cities and communities. Lydia is also a dual citizen of both Australia and the United States, and she loves traveling! After graduation, Lydia would like to participate in the Double Dawgs Program to get her master’s in International Policy, before attending law school. She would like to pursue a career in diplomacy or international law.
Hallie Poole 
Majors: Political Science
Minor: International Affairs
Hallie is a graduate student from Savannah, Georgia, pursuing a Master of Public Administration (MPA), which she expects to complete in Spring 2027. She earned her undergraduate degree in Political Science, with a minor in International Affairs, through SPIA. This summer, she plans to intern with the City of Savannah, furthering her commitment to local government and community impact.Previously, Hallie interned with U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff, where she supported constituent services and gained firsthand insight into how federal policy directly impacts the lives of Georgians. She also studied abroad through the SPIA Firenze Program in Italy, an experience that broadened her global perspective on governance and public affairs.On campus, Hallie is actively involved in service and leadership organizations, including Shop with a Bulldawg (SWAB) and Silver Wings. She is honored to represent the School of Public and International Affairs and is excited to serve as an ambassador for the 2026–2027 term.
Vanessa Rodriguez McCowan
Majors: International Affairs, Spanish
Minor: Political Science
Vanessa Rodriguez McCowan is a third‑year student from Marietta, Georgia, majoring in International Affairs and Spanish with a minor in Political Science. In addition to being a SPIA Ambassador, she serves as the Vice President of Member Engagement for Women in Political Science and International Affairs and is involved in the Local Diplomacy CITS Lab. Over the summer, Vanessa worked as a Dawg Camp counselor at UGA and studied abroad in Sevilla, Spain. Beyond campus, she interns with Casa de Amistad and volunteers with City of Refuge. Vanessa is very grateful for this opportunity and excited to serve the SPIA community this year!
Bethany Samuel
Majors: Political Science
Minor: International Affairs
Bethany is a third-year student from Tifton, GA. Currently majoring in Political Science and minoring in International Affairs. Her academic interests also include sociology and law. Bethany is involved in a multitude of organizations across campus, including serving as a campus tour guide at the University of Georgia Visitors Center, where she enjoys welcoming prospective students and showing them around. She is also involved in collegiate 4-H and Black Felicity Student Affairs. In the fall, Bethany will be enrolled in UGA’s Washington Semester Program, where she will live and work full-time in Washington, D.C., and work in the office of Senator Raphael Warnock. After graduation, Bethany plans to attend law school and pursue a career in the legal field, and hopes to become an attorney for incarcerated and at risk youth. During her time in the ambassador program, Bethany hopes to immerse herself in the SPIA community and make meaningful connections with those around her.
Eva Sardon
Majors: Political Science and International Affairs
Eva is a fourth-year student from Lawrenceville, Georgia, majoring in Political Science and International Affairs. On campus, she is involved in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, the Peer Learning Assistant Program, Active Learning Ambassador Program, The National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), and much more. During the summer of 2026, she served as a New Student Orientation Leader for incoming students. In the summer of 2025, she participated in SPIA’s Stellenbosch, South Africa study abroad program. After graduation, in May of 2027, Eva plans to attend law school and pursue a career in entertainment law. Eva is thrilled to serve a SPIA ambassador for the 2026-2027 school year, and she is excited to see how she will grow in this position.
Claire Scafidi
Majors: International Affairs
Minor: Spanish, Latin American Caribbean Studies, Studio Art, Latinx Studies
Certificate: Global Studies
Claire is a fourth-year student from Kennesaw, Georgia, majoring in International Affairs and minoring in Spanish, Latin American and Caribbean Studies, and Latinx Studies, with a certificate in Global Studies. In addition to being a SPIA Ambassador, she is the Director of the Editorial for the Loch Johnson Society and a data collector for the Local Diplomacy Initiative, and previously was a Security Leadership Fellow and Carl Vinson Research Fellow. While at UGA, Claire has studied abroad in Cuba, Oxford, and spent this past summer studying International Law and Security at The Hague. After graduation, Claire plans to teach English in a Spanish speaking country. She is excited to return to represent SPIA for a second year.
Sophia Schier
Majors: Political Science and International Affairs
Minor: Law, Jurisprudence, and the State
Sophia is a fourth-year student from Orlando, Florida, majoring in both Political Science and International Affairs with a minor in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State. She serves as a legal intern for a personal injury law firm in Athens. Sophia is a member of the Delta Iota chapter of Delta Gamma, where she serves as the Vice President of Communications. Sophia was selected to participate in the Summer 2025 SPIA A Firenze study abroad program. After graduation, Sophia hopes to attend law school and pursue a career in government affairs.
Arushi Shetty
Majors: Political Science
Minor: Law, Jurisprudence, and the State, Criminal Justice, International Affairs
Arushi Shetty is a third-year student from Raleigh, North Carolina, majoring in Political Science with triple minors in Criminal Justice, International Affairs, and Law. At UGA, she serves as President of the Kappa Alpha Pi Pre-Law Fraternity, Social Media Director for University Union, and is a member of the Counterpoint Dance Company. Arushi studied abroad in Spring 2025 at the University of Oxford through SPIA, where she studied international law and criminology. She spent this past summer interning with the North Carolina Governor on his digital media team. After graduating in May 2027, Arushi plans to attend law school. She is excited to be returning as a SPIA Ambassador for her final year at UGA!
Aubrey Skinner
Majors: Political Science and Public Relations
Minor: International Affairs
Certificate: PAC certificate
Aubrey Skinner is a fourth-year student from Milton, Georgia, majoring in political science and international affairs with a minor in international affairs. She is also a member of the 2025-26 PAC cohort. She has worked for UGA Housing as an RA at Brumby Hall for the past three years. She is also involved on campus with the Frye Fellowship as their communications director, a Public Service and Outreach Scholar, and an intern with the J.W. Fanning Leadership Institute. After graduation Aubrey plans to pursue a career in political communications. She looks forward to serving as a 2026-27 SPIA ambassador!
Brianna Speizer
Majors: Political Science and International Affairs
Minor: Spanish and Law, Jurisprudence, & the State
Brianna Speizer is a fourth-year student from Marietta, GA, pursuing majors in Political Science and International Affairs with minors in Spanish and Law, Jurisprudence, & the State through the School of Law. This past spring, she interned during the Georgia General Assembly in the Office of Speaker Burns, and previously studied abroad in Valencia, Spain, through the UGA en España, Valencia program. She is involved with Gamma Phi Beta, Phi Alpha Delta, and Order of Omega. Brianna has donated her hair to Children with Hair Loss four times and volunteers with Casa de Amistad. Upon graduation in spring 2027, she aspires to attend UGA Law School. She is beyond excited to serve as a SPIA Ambassador, representing a school that has given her so many opportunities.
Jonah Sykes
Majors: Political Science, International Affairs, History
Minor: Law, Jurisprudence, and the State
Jonah Sykes is a second-year student from Woodstock, Georgia, majoring in Political Science, International Affairs, and History, with a minor in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State. On campus, he is actively involved in the Phi Kappa Literary Society, where he served on their Spring 2026 competitive debate team. He hopes to study abroad in Washington, D.C., through the Washington Semester Program, and upon graduation, he plans to pursue a Master of Public Administration. Jonah aspires to eventually build a career in public service. Until then, he is honored to represent the SPIA student body.
Grayson Taylor
Majors: Business Management and Political Science
Minor: Legal Studies
Grayson Taylor is a fourth-year student from Evans, Georgia, majoring in Political Science and Business Management, with a certificate in legal studies. In addition to being a SPIA Ambassador, Grayson serves as a member of numerous pre-law organizations, including: Kappa Alpha Pi Pre-Law Fraternity and Defender Advocate Society. As an ambassador, Grayson hopes to continue to connect more students with the SPIA community and to add a different perspective to the SPIA experience. Outside of his studies, Grayson spends time in other areas of the University, both as a resident assistant in on-campus housing and as a “Digital Dawg” Social Media Ambassador. Grayson plans to attend law school after completing his undergraduate degrees. Grayson is very excited about returning as a SPIA Ambassador and is passionate about the work he can continue to accomplish in this role.
Tony
Tran
Majors: Political Science
Minor: Law, Jurisprudence, & the State
Certificate: Applied History Certificate
Tony is a third-year student from Suwanee, Georgia, majoring in Political Science with a minor in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State. He is also a member of the new applied history program offered by SPIA. On campus, he is actively involved in Student Government, the Alpha Pi chapter of the Political Science Honors Society Pi Sigma Alpha, SOON Movement Global- faith based ministry, and the Emerging Leaders Program. After graduation, he plans on attending law school in order to kickstart a career in civil litigation, focusing on personal injury and contract dispute cases. Tony is incredibly enthused to be a part of the 2026-2027 SPIA Ambassador program. He looks forward to networking and collaborating with donors, alumni, and prospective students to ensure that SPIA remains a renowned institution for public policy and international affairs studies. He is truly grateful to get this opportunity to serve for SPIA in order to give back to the school that has transformed him into the insightful and knowledgeable student that he is today.
Anabella van Kempen
Majors: Political Science, Sociology, and Philosophy
Minor: Public Administration, Criminal Justice, Law, Jurisprudence and the State
Anabella van Kempen is a fourth-year student from Chicago, Illinois, triple majoring in Political Science, Sociology, and Philosophy with minors in Public Administration, Jurisprudence, and Criminal Justice. She is deeply involved on campus through her leadership roles in several organizations.
Anabella is a member of the Homecoming and Social Committee for Kappa Alpha Pi Pre-Law Fraternity, serves as an Ambassador for Shop with a Bulldawg, and is apart of Gamma Phi Beta. She has a summer internship with the Tennessee Justice Center as a Casework Intern.
She is passionate about law and public service and plans to attend law school after graduation to pursue a career in white-collar criminal law. Anabella is committed to using her academic and leadership experiences to advocate for justice and integrity within complex legal systems. She looks forward to engaging more deeply with her peers and contributing meaningfully to the UGA community through this opportunity.
Elijah Watson
Majors: Economics and International Affairs
Certificate: Legal Studies
Elijah is a fourth-year student double majoring in Economics and International Affairs. In addition to being a SPIA Ambassador, Elijah is also a member of the 2026-2026 cohort of the Security Leadership Program, President of the Beta Zeta Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, “Mr. Esquire” for the Eta Xi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and has been involved in other organizations such as Model United Nations, Black Pre-Law Student Association, Keystone Fellowship, and UGA Spirit. This past summer, Elijah studied abroad in Munich, Germany while interning with the Europe Office of the Georgia Department of Economic Development. After graduating, Elijah plans to complete a Master of International Policy degree as a part of UGA’s Double Dawg program. He is excited to serve his second term as a SPIA Ambassador!
Ciara Whimbush
Majors: Political Science and Health Promotion
Minor: Bioethics
Ciara is a second-year student from Acworth, Georgia on the pre-law track, double-majoring in Political Science and Health Promotion with a minor Bioethics. Ciara is involved across several parts of campus; in addition to being a SPIA Ambassador, Ciara serves as a Tour Guide with the UGA Visitors Center, a member of the Kappa Alpha Pi Pre-Law Fraternity, a Connect Abroad Ambassador for the Office of Global Engagement, a writer for the Georgia Political Review, and the Committee Chair on Student Experience for the 39th Senate of the Student Government Association, where she was elected as an At-Large Senator this past February. Additionally, she served as a First-Year Senator during her freshman year. Ciara has also studied abroad in Germany through UGA’s Connect Abroad, with hopes to pursue other study away programs with SPIA in the future. She looks forward to serving the SPIA community for the 2026-27 school year, and cannot wait to further collaborate with the people who make this school great.
Lydia White
Majors: Public Relations, Political Science
Minor: International Affairs, Public Affairs
Certificate: Applied Politics
Lydia White is a third year from Knoxville, Tennessee. She is pursuing majors in both Political Science and Public Relations, with a minor in International Affairs. She will graduate in Spring 2028 and plans to pursue a career in public affairs. With a heart for service and building relationships, Lydia enjoys being a Young Life leader at North Oconee high school and serving as a SPIA Ambassador. She is also involved within the Arch Policy Institute, Kappa Alpha Pi pre-law fraternity, Chi Omega, and the Morehead Honors College. She has enjoyed interning with Safer TN, a non-profit advocacy group located in her home state, this past spring. With a particular interest in public policy from a non-profit advocacy perspective, Lydia hopes to pursue a career in public interest law.
Alika Yvette-Ricalde
Majors: Political Science and International Affairs
Minor: Spanish
Certificate: Applied Politics
Alika Otero-Ricalde is a third-year student studying Political Science and International Affairs, with a minor in Spanish. As a first-generation college student, she is passionate about expanding access to higher education and uplifting underrepresented communities. On campus, she serves as a Resident Assistant and is actively involved in the Student Government Association, Casa de Amistad, and the Applied Politics program. She also serves as Co-Dean of the Dean William Tate Honor Society, helping lead initiatives that strengthen community and service among top first-year scholars. Alika has experience in community outreach through her work with the Georgia Latino Film Festival and GALEO. She is currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration and plans to attend law school, with the goal of working in corporate law. She also hopes to study abroad over the summer.
Mark Zimmer
Majors: Political Science, Economics, International Affairs
Minor: Spanish; Law, Jurisprudence, and the State
Certificate: Applied Politics
Mark Zimmer is a fourth-year Honors student from Carrollton, GA, with majors in Political Science, Economics, and International Affairs, minors in Spanish and Law, Jurisprudence, and the State, and a Public Affairs Professional Certificate in Applied Politics. As a Richard B. Russell Security Leadership Fellow with the Benson-Bertsch Center for International Trade and Security, he developed his research thesis examining how partisan polarization affects immigration law. At UGA, he serves as the Chief of Staff of the Student Government Association and the Director-General of the Model United Nations team, and has previously served as a Representative Spencer Frye Fellow, a writer for the Undergraduate Law Review and the Red & Black, and a research assistant in the Department of Political Science. Mark has completed internships in a variety of federal and state offices, and hopes to attend law school and pursue a career in public service after graduation.
Special thanks to the Parents Leadership Council for their generous support of the SPIA Ambassadors. The SPIA Ambassadors received a grant to help fund students’ transportation to various Atlanta opportunities for the upcoming school year.
