[{"id":4236,"date":"2018-05-25T14:00:57","date_gmt":"2018-05-25T14:00:57","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sifellows\/?page_id=4236"},"modified":"2018-09-12T13:49:51","modified_gmt":"2018-09-12T13:49:51","slug":"1st-cohort","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/1st-cohort\/","title":{"rendered":"Page 3"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":2722,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-4236","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4236","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2722"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4236"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4236\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4236"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":4234,"date":"2018-05-25T14:00:19","date_gmt":"2018-05-25T14:00:19","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sifellows\/?page_id=4234"},"modified":"2018-09-12T13:48:58","modified_gmt":"2018-09-12T13:48:58","slug":"becoming-a-fellow-1","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/becoming-a-fellow-1\/","title":{"rendered":"Page 2"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":2722,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-4234","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4234","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2722"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4234"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4234\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4234"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":4232,"date":"2018-05-25T13:59:42","date_gmt":"2018-05-25T13:59:42","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sifellows\/?page_id=4232"},"modified":"2018-09-12T13:48:17","modified_gmt":"2018-09-12T13:48:17","slug":"about","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/about\/","title":{"rendered":"Page 1"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":2722,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-4232","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4232","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2722"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4232"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4232\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4232"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":4092,"date":"2018-04-10T19:31:44","date_gmt":"2018-04-10T19:31:44","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/socialenterprise\/?page_id=4092"},"modified":"2018-10-05T21:31:35","modified_gmt":"2018-10-05T21:31:35","slug":"alumni","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/edspace.american.edu\/sealumni\/","title":{"rendered":"Alumni"},"content":{"rendered":"

Welcome to the Social Enterprise M.A. Program Alumni site. Alumni profiles are written upon entrance to the program and updates on our alumni can be found in the SE newsletter on the program EdSpace<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section>
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Akhtar Muhammad Abid | Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan<\/h3>\n
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Headshot of Akhtar<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n

Degree (s):<\/strong> Lahore University of Management Sciences, B.S. in Accounting and Finance, 2015<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Oil and Gas Development Company<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration<\/strong>: M.A., Social Enterprise with a concentration in Impact Measurement and Evaluation<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> \u201cI want to work in the education sector, especially to help children out of child labor.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI had this feeling that if I am 70 years old the only reason that can actually make me happy and proud will be “if I have worked for the betterment of the society and I have been able to change the lives of some people for the better”. And I believe social entrepreneurship will give me the best possible way to go about it.\u201d\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>
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Deborah Agustoni | Ticino, Switzerland<\/h3>\n
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Headshot of Deborah<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Degree (s):<\/strong> George Mason University, B.A. Conflict Analysis and Resolution, minors: Women and Gender Studies; International and Comparative Studies, 2012<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> United Nations World Food Program (WFP)<\/p>\n

Current Employment:<\/strong> Counter-Trafficking and Protection Unit Program Assistant at the International Organization for Migration (IOM)<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A. Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Human trafficking, alternative trauma healing, women empowerment, and conflict transformation.<\/p>\n

“The Social Enterprise program resonated with me immediately because of its hands-on approach, space for students’ creativity and emphasis on innovation and personalized coaching. I was inspired by the program and its community, and I quickly realized I found the right space where to start materializing my own ideas into the world while being surrounded by creative and social-oriented people. The social enterprise program is like an incubator where students and their ideas are encouraged and supported to thrive.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Brittany Ashenfelter | Earlham, Iowa<\/h3>\n
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Headshot of Brittany<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Degree (s):<\/strong> B.A. Sociology, George Washington University, 2013<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Lynne Featherstone MP & Roberta Blackman- Woods MP, Business Development at True2o<\/p>\n

Current Employment:<\/strong> Business Development at Signal Vine<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise, Concentration: Intrapreneurship<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Intrapreneurship, Corporate Social Responsibility, Impact Investing<\/p>\n

“I chose the M.A. in Social Enterprise program at American because I believe it will best give me the knowledge and experience to successfully grow my company in a way that benefits not just my company, but the communities in which we work as well. Business empathy is important in solving systematic issues and this program not only acknowledges that, but focuses on how to best address that concept.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Taryn Bird | Pittsburgh, PA<\/h3>\n
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Headshot of Taryn<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Degree (s):<\/strong> Penn State University, Economics and Spanish, 2007Pre-AU Employment: Indigo Africa, Kigali – Rwanda; Business Civic Leadership Center, US Chamber of Commerce<\/p>\n

Employment:<\/strong>\u00a0Product and Logistics Specialist, Corporate Social Responsibility, Kate Spade New York<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise with a Concentration on Women’s Economic Empowerment<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Corporate Social Responsibility and Global Citizenship, new business initiatives in the international development space.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Nick Boedicker | Auburn, NY<\/h3>\n
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Headshot of Nick<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Degree (s):<\/strong> Georgetown University, B.A. English\/Spanish, 2006<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Handicap International, Finger Lakes Migrant Health Care Project<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Post-AU Employment:<\/strong> Founder and Managing Director, Strategic Good<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Creating economic opportunities and promoting innovation and good business practices in the developing world; sustainable funding solutions for NGOs.<\/p>\n

\u201cI joined the Social Enterprise Program at American University because of the unique opportunity it provides to learn practical business skills and then apply them to international development. I\u2019ve been particularly impressed with my classmates and with the breadth of courses to choose from in the School of International Service and Kogod School of Business. It\u2019s also been exciting to work with local NGOs and social enterprises in Washington, DC as part of my coursework.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Kate Burke | Santa Barbara, CA<\/h3>\n
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Headshot of Kate<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Degree (s):<\/strong> Westmont College, B.A. International Studies with emphasis in Latin American Studies, 1995<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Administrative Manager and Human Resources at PricewaterhouseCoopers, DAS Management, CCCU<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise Internships\/work while at AU: Working Minds at Carson J Spencer Foundation and Consulting at Marq Energie<\/p>\n

Post-AU Employment:<\/strong> Associate Director, Partnership for Workplace Mental Health at American Psychiatric Foundation<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Capacity building and creating mentally healthy workplaces to sustain contributing leaders and teams. Partnerships and dialogue across all sectors to maximize the benefits of each.<\/p>\n

“A distinct appeal of AU’s Social Enterprise masters program is that it resides in the School of International Service. Another is that the program allows for coursework across the campus and disciplines. These factors exhibit in practical ways what Social Entrepreneurs accomplish in the field – breaking down and cooperating across barriers. I have the opportunity to practice in academia what I want to see more in business, whether for or not-for-profit; namely, joint efforts using business knowledge, policy expertise and cultural sensitivity to effect transformational change for social good.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Magali Caceres Cespedes | Asuncion, Paraguay<\/h3>\n
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Headshot of Maga<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Degree (s):<\/strong> B.A in International Affair with concentrations in International Development and Latin American Studies, Minor in Political Science, George Washington University (2013)<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Director of International Relations and External Grants, Ministry of Youth of Paraguay<\/p>\n

Current Employment:<\/strong> Deputy Executive Director, International Young Leaders Assembly and International Advisor to the Ministry of Youth (Pro Bono)<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A in Social Enterprise with a concentration in\u00a0Strategic Management for Change and Innovation in Government<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> social innovation, youth development, innovation in government, effective management for change<\/p>\n

“I chose the Masters Program in Social Enterprise because I believe it will provide me with the right set of tools, knowledge, and experiences to make a greater difference in my country, Paraguay. I am passionate about transforming lives and addressing social issues with innovative approaches, both from the government and private sector perspectives. I believe the SE program is the perfect fit for young, passionate, leaders that want to transform their communities, nations, and world.”\u00a0\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Juny Canenguez | Leesburg, Virginia<\/h3>\n
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Headshot of Juny<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Degree (s):<\/strong> B.S. Business Management, George Mason University<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:\u00a0<\/strong>Recruitment and Outreach Officer at the U.S. Department of State<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A. Social Enterprise with a concentration in managing people, organizations and projects<\/p>\n

Career Interest:\u00a0<\/strong>U.S. Foreign Service Officer with the U.S. Department of State<\/p>\n

“Through the MA in Social Enterprise program my biggest passions come together — the world of business and international public and private sectors.I am glad to be in a program composed of a group of diverse individuals who want to solve the world’s social problems through the use of effective business practices.”\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Alessandra Clara | San Salvador, El Salvador<\/h3>\n
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Headshot of Alessandra<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Degree (s):<\/strong> Johns Hopkins University, B.S. Business, Concentration: Management, 2013<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A. Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Current Employment:<\/strong> Social Enterprise Coordinator, American University. Social Enterprise Student Consultant for: ConTextos and Global Alliance for Children<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Social Enterprise consulting in Latin America in the areas of: income generating streams for non-profits, corporate social responsibility, and the implementation of business strategies to solve social problems for for-profit, non-profit and hybrid organizations<\/p>\n

“I am passionate about Social Enterprises. In a world where there is a pressing need for social change; social enterprises bring out the best of human nature: innovation and social empathy. They are the perfect combination of social responsibility, business principles, efficiency and sustainability. My goal is to build a cross-sector infrastructure in Latin America for social enterprises that utilize innovative market-based, design thinking & economically sustainable solutions to poverty alleviation & economic empowerment.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Michael Cobb | Dayton, OH<\/h3>\n
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Headshot of Cobb<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Degree (s):<\/strong> Denison University, B.A. Philosophy, Political Science, Economics, 2011<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Organizational Advancement Associate, Homefull<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A. Social Enterprise with a concentration in Social Mission Business<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> I aspire to be at the forefront of demonstrating that following a business model can effectively advance a social mission. There is tremendous power in utilizing the marketplace to provide opportunity and empowerment.<\/p>\n

\u201cI was drawn to Social Enterprise because I feel very strongly that this movement represents a dynamic and powerful force for advancing social change. People everywhere are becoming more conscious of how we can make our world more inclusive, fair, and sustainable \u2013 in many ways social enterprises are the creative expression of this consciousness put into action. I chose to get an M.A. in Social Enterprise in order to gain the skills and make the personal connections necessary to be on the leading edge of this movement!”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Lindsay Dahl | Silver Spring, Maryland<\/h3>\n
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Headshot of Lindsay<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Degree (s):<\/strong> Boston University, B.S. in Communication with a concentration in Public Relations, Minor in Political Science, 2008<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Digital PR and Marketing Client Manager at Blue State Digital and Edelman<\/p>\n

Current Employment:<\/strong> Digital Project Manager at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation<\/p>\n

AU Degree and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise, Concentration in Cross-sector Partnership Building and Innovation Strategy<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Knowledge sharing and innovation across the public and private sectors to tackle issues related to environmental sustainability, poverty, and economic development<\/p>\n

\u201cAfter working in marketing and communications for corporations and nonprofits, I wanted a program that offered ways to build and try out new skills, and expose myself in more depth to the social issues I care about most. American University’s Social Enterprise program perfectly aligns this level of breadth and depth, approaching entrepreneurship with a social mindset from both practical and theoretical perspectives. I loved the idea of tailoring my degree to my strengths and interests, as well as the prospect of working and studying alongside a diverse group of passionate, creative students, faculty, and alumni alike. The support system and resources offered by the SE program cannot be understated.\u201d\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>
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Federico A. de Jes\u00fas | San Juan, Puerto Rico<\/h3>\n
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Headshot of Federico<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Degree (s):<\/strong> American University, B.A. Interdisciplinary Studies in Communications, Legal Institutions, Economics & Government (CLEG), 2001<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Obama-Biden 2008 Presidential Campaign & Transition Office, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid\u2019s Office, U.S. House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi\u2019s Office, Congressman Eliot Engel\u2019s Office, former Puerto Rico Resident Commissioner in Congress An\u00edbal Acevedo Vil\u00e1\u2019s Office, and other public, private and political experiences.<\/p>\n

Work while at AU:<\/strong> Associate Director for Governmental Affairs, U.S. Department of Transportation, Deputy Executive Director, Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration- PRFFA<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Post-AU Employment:<\/strong> Independent consultant working on strategic communications, government relations, social enterprise solutions and more.<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Use of social enterprise solutions to advance socioeconomic change through innovations in policymaking, consulting, advocacy and other public interest ventures.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen I learned about the cutting edge vision, the multi-faceted courses, the practical focus and the service philosophy behind AU\u2019s M.A. in Social Enterprise, I knew that if I was serious about taking my public service career to the next level, this was an opportunity I could not afford to miss.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Thuy Dinh | Hanoi, Vietnam<\/h3>\n
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Headshot of Thuy<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Degree (s):<\/strong> Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, B.A International Relations, 2009<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Co-founder of\u00a0YESE<\/a>; Communication and Advocacy Intern at Oxfam; Case studies Consultant at Oxfam<\/p>\n

Work While at AU:<\/strong> Graduate Assistant, Social Enterprise Program, American University; Graduate Intern \u2013 TechnoServe<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise – International Development, Poverty Alleviation<\/p>\n

Post-AU Employment:<\/strong> Communications Coordinator, Initiative for Global Development; Grameen Foundation; Project H.E.A.R<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Market-based solutions to poverty alleviation, Social innovations in International Development, Cross-sector collaboration for poverty alleviation<\/p>\n

“I chose the M.A in Social Enterprise program out of my other International Development program options because I was attracted to the multi-disciplinary and practitioner-oriented aspect of the degree. My passion has always been particularly in poverty alleviation, and the new mindset of social entrepreneurship intimated a number of prospective solutions to the problem in Vietnam and around the world. The program perfectly blends my passion for change in poverty alleviation with my interest in social innovations and social entrepreneurship. I hope it will help me to contribute to the more efficiency of the non-profit sector and scaling up its impacts in poverty alleviation efforts.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Caroline Englund | Fribourg, Switzerland<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> School of Management (Haute Ecole de Gestion), B.S. Business and Administration, 2013; Suffolk University M.B.A. Masters of Business Adminstration, 2015<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Assistant Marketing and Development Director at Red Door Hospitality<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A. Social Enterprise with a concentration in Impact Consulting<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Impact Consulting and Impact Investment<\/p>\n

“I was in the International Development program, I then took Stephanie’s class and I realize that it was closer to my professional objectives. I have an MBA, so I know the business side, but I feel like there is other strategies, still related to business strategies that can be applied to social enterprises and to other institutions aiming to make the world a better place.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>
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Rachel Fauber | Rockville, Maryland<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Towson University, Mass Communication, Environmental Studies, 2009<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> National Institute on Retirement Security, Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Washington DC, Himmelrich Public Relations<\/p>\n

Current Employment:<\/strong> Manager of Membership Services, National Institute on Retirement Security<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Innovation in the nonprofit sector, cross-sector partnerships, building the next generation young leaders and entrepreneurs equipped with the skills needed to tackle pressing global issues<\/p>\n

“I chose American University’s Social Enterprise Program because it offered a unique community of staff, faculty and classmates who all share my personal values. The program fosters creativity and innovation, allowing students to build a personal curriculum of classes that match their interests and passions, while plugging us into robusts networks of practitioners and organizations.”\u00a0\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Rina Fetahaj | Prishtina, Kosovo<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> London Metropolitan University, B.A. in Marketing and Psychology, 2010<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Project Officer for HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation Kosovo<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> Social Enterprise with a concentration in Entrepreneurship and Management for Social Change<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Empowering marginalized individuals through Social Entrepreneurship<\/p>\n

\u201cThrough this degree, I will be better prepared to work with like-minded individuals across sectors, individuals who strive for social impact through collaboration with the aim of empowering local communities and marginalized groups.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>
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Brad Fisher | Orlean, VA<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Mary Washington College, B.A. International Affairs, 2009<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Co-founder and operator, Virginia Wine Bottling Co LLC, Corporate Relations Intern, Grameen Foundation, Field Intern, Partnership for Tunisian Economic Development.<\/p>\n

Work While at AU:<\/strong> Consulting with Cause, a social enterprise-based bar, and Snack Packers; Social Enterprise Faculty, Summerfuel<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Career Interests:<\/strong> Microfinance, empowering women, small business and entrepreneurial development, particularly in North Africa, and not becoming a corporate drone.<\/p>\n

\u201cHaving experience both in the for-profit and non-profit world, and seeking to combine the two, the SE program was a natural match for me. Having been an entrepreneur, I wanted to use the skill-set I’d gained to help others, and the SE program gives me the tools to do just that.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>
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Adrienne Gifford | Pittsburgh, PA<\/h3>\n
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Headshot of Adrienne<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Degree (s):<\/strong> American University, B.S. B.A International Finance, 2002<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Herren Associates, Booz Allen Hamilton<\/p>\n

Work While at AU:<\/strong> Consulting engagements with World Vision International and City Blossoms, a Washington, DC non-profit<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise, Concentration: International Development, Impact Investing<\/p>\n

\u201cAs a practitioner-focused program, AU\u2019s M.A. in Social Enterprise enables me to leverage my consulting and business experience in new and important ways. I strongly believe in the power of business to change and transform lives and in the potential for commercial best practices to be leveraged in new and innovative ways in the social sector. The SE program provides me with the knowledge, understanding, practical application, and network to contribute to a new field in which business can be a vehicle to help alleviate poverty and many other of the world\u2019s greatest social challenges.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Amy Gillespie | Los Angeles, CA<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Tulane University, B.A. Political Science and International Human Rights, 2009<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Active Entertainment, Millennium Films, Marcia Miller Jewelry collection, Tulane University, Logoyourself.com, American University<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Post-AU Employment:<\/strong> Events Manager, School of International Service, American University<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Cross-sector partnerships, corporate social responsibility, arts based youth advocacy, and mentorship programs.<\/p>\n

\u201cI chose American University\u2019s M.A. program in Social Enterprise because I was prepared to actively participate in an environment of like-minded individuals, supporting and contributing one another\u2019s career goals for the common purpose of creating enterprises that will better the world. I was searching for a degree program that understood the benefits of collaboration, and I was interested in contributing to a program where action was expected. AU\u2019s Social Enterprise program spoke to my desire to create, grow, and expand upon social enterprise; and it has now given me the opportunity to think up innovative solutions to old models of thought, while also being able to encourage and support high-impact entrepreneurial talent.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>
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Lina Guerrero | Bogato, Columbia<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> American University, B.S.-B.A. Business and International Studies, 2010<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Ashoka, National Council of La Raza, Office of Congressman Brad Miller<\/p>\n

Work While at AU:<\/strong> Inter-American Development Bank<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise, with a concentration in project management and evaluation.<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Social innovation and social entrepreneurs in Latin America<\/p>\n

“I chose this program because it allows me to combine international development and business courses and it provides a great network of people that are passionate about finding ways to bring the private and public sector together to solve some of the world’s most intractable problems. I believe that getting all sectors of society together bring the best and most innovative solutions.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Annea Hapciu | Prishtina, Kosova<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> University of Dayton, Bachelor of Sciences in Business Administration (BSBA): Entrepreneurship & Marketing<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> KosovaLive Organisation & N’Yoga<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> SIS: SE with a concentration in Media Production for Social Change<\/p>\n

“I was attracted to the unique framework of the program – I love that it is truly as flexible as it states on the program description. I hoped to integrate several interests in my graduate program and the SE program given that it is customized to every student enables me to do precisely that. It was even a better surprise to witness how friendly and supportive the SE network of candidates and faculty are as well.”\u00a0\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Jennifer Hartzell | Elk Grove, IL<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Yale University, B.A. Anthropology, 2009<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> University Partnerships and Operations Coordinator, Ashoka’s Youth Venture<\/p>\n

Work While at AU:<\/strong> University Partnerships Coordinator, Ashoka’s Youth Venture<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Post AU employment:<\/strong> Teacher, Success Academy Charter Schools<\/p>\n

Career interest:<\/strong> Education reform, Sustainability<\/p>\n

“I came to AU’s Social Enterprise program because of an interest in practical application and skill development with a cross-sector approach. Its location in Washington, D.C., a city bursting with innovative potential and a hub for social change has also been an incredible boon.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>
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Erin Houston | Wilmington, DE<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> College of William and Mary, B.A. Government, English, 2009<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Advisory Board Company, Congressman Donald M. Payne<\/p>\n

Current Employment:<\/strong> Devex<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A. Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Making business work for global development – whether through more ethical supply chain management, building gender equity into the workforce, or encouraging corporations to participate in the purpose economy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Khavi Homsombath | Vientiane, Laos<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> The Lao-American College, Business Administration, Arts of English, 2012<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Communications Officer at the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s office in Laos, Co-founder at\u00a0Moringa Plus<\/a>, Volunteer advisor at the College major Guidebook and Web project.<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise, Concentration:Business for community development and impact investing<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Social entrepreneurship, product and service development for social businesses, communications for change, social enterprise consultant in developing countries<\/p>\n

“I chose to study Social Enterprise at American University because of an interest in the field of business and community development. Coming from Laos, a country where ideas of social business and corporate social responsibility are very new, I am excited to learn about the concept of socially responsible businesses so that I could apply this principle to develop the field of social enterprise back home.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Catherine Hufnagel | Vienna, Virginia<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Wake Forest University, B.A. Political Science, minors: Spanish and Latin American Studies, 2009<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Program Coordinator, Farmer-to-Farmer Program, CNFA; Program Assistant, Program for Education Reform in Latin American and the Caribbea, Inter-American Dialogue<\/p>\n

Current Employment:<\/strong> Public Policy Project Coordinator, ASCD<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A. Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Youth development in the global south
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\n“I love working for non-profits for their missions, but I’ve been feeling like we shouldn’t have to limit ourselves to just the status quo of public vs private sectors. I’m so excited that the SE program at AU is allowing me to explore new ways of approaching old problems.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Jeremy Jensen | Salt Lake City, UT<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Kogod School of Business, American University, MBA with a concentration in consulting\/entrepreneurship, 2013 and University of Utah, BA Spanish Literature, 2006<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> General Management in Outdoor Equipment and Apparel Industry, International Trade Officer for Economic Development Office \u2013 State of Utah, Project Manager for sustainability architecture firm.<\/p>\n

Work While at AU:<\/strong> Product development and new market strategy for a tech startup called CoFoundersLab<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise with a concentration in\u00a0Entrepreneurship and Social Impact Consulting<\/p>\n

Post-AU Employment:<\/strong> Strategy Consultant, CSC<\/p>\n

\u201cI applied to the SE Program at AU because I am captivated by ecosystems that harness the collective energy of innovators and change-makers focused on market-driven solutions for social impact. My goal is to create a for-profit social enterprise in the active outdoor-lifestyle and adventure travel industry. The Masters of Social Enterprise Program will help me achieve this goal. Particularly at this point in my career, because it will expose me to the diverse set of perspectives, ideas, and people that constitutes the Social Enterprise community.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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John S. Kavyavu | North Kivu, DR Congo<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Pune University India, M.A. Development Planning and Administration<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Executive Director Pro-Microfinance International<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Internships\/Work While at AU:<\/strong> Pro-Microfinance International<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Building a sustainable partnership between Not-for-Profit, Private and Public Sectors to make the world a better place where every child has the opportunity to succeed and reach their full potential for their own good and that of the entire community.<\/p>\n

“I’ve been planning to join AU since I came to the U.S. five years ago, but I was not clear which program. When I heard and read about the new M.A. in Social Enterprise program at the School of International Services, I thought this was exactly what I was looking for and jumped in. In fact, this program offers the opportunity to understand effective approaches to create change through sustainable partnership between Not-for-Profit, Private and Public Sectors.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Anamika Kumpawat | San Jose, California<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Arizona State University, B.S. in Social and Behavior Sciences, Minor in Criminology & Criminal Justice and Communications, 2016<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Intern for Senator McCain Campaign and Marketing Intern for Glendale Chamber of Commerce<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> Social Enterprise with a concentration in Peace and Conflict<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> \u201cMy career interest is working as a Profiler within the FBI or law enforcement.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI chose Social Enterprise to gain a different perspective. I have always wanted to help others and have been fascinated by the brain and people in general. This program allows me to explore my passion while being able to give back to the community and helping others.\u201d\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Sundas Liaqat | Islamabad, Pakistan<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Fashion Design, 2008, MBA Marketing, 2013, Iqra Univeristy<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Academician and entrepreneur<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise, with a focus on women empowerment, international development and diplomacy.<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> I am interested in women empowerment and international development working with diplomacy and driving social change. I want to be an advocate of my people and represent them in international forums.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy country is completely immersed in various societal problems the root cause of which is poverty. Having seen the government fail, in my opinion, it now vastly depends on social entrepreneurs to stabilize the economy of Pakistan. This prospect excites me and so I am eager to take this field of study as my course of action. With one foot in fashion and the other in community development, I want to find my way forward and lead my country towards progress.”\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Amanda Lotz | Augusta, NJ<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> American University School of International Service, B.A. International Studies, 2011<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Faison Enterprises<\/p>\n

Work While at AU:<\/strong> Program Coordinator, Accion International<\/p>\n

Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A. Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Poverty alleviation and increased access to entrepreneurial education in emerging markets, while identifying the uniqueness of culture in each community.<\/p>\n

\u201cAs an undergraduate at AU, I developed a theoretical and analytical perspective for evaluating cases relevant to International Studies. From this experience, I knew that the professors were of a high caliber and engaged in the livelihood of their students. I considered M.P.A. and International Management programs, for the practical skills that I would develop and then use for good. I also considered International Development programs. Yet, like the missing puzzle piece that is serendipitously found underneath a couch cushion, I found all of that and more. When I found out that a new M.A. program in Social Enterprise had been created, I could not think of a better way to support my career objective of improving the quality of life for others, while ensuring that my work is measurable and impact driven.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Miles Makdisi | Berkeley, California<\/h2>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> B.S. in Geography, University of Oregon, 2009<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Director, Deportes para el Desarrollo, Director of Development, Colombia Lacrosse Association<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Development and support of programs aimed at maximizing human potential through cross-cultural learning and exchange, mentorship, and confidence building<\/p>\n

“I chose this program in order to learn from leaders in the Social Enterprise sector, be surrounded by a diverse group of creative and talented people, and gain guidance related to my passions and interests. The program’s curriculum focuses on practical skill development and application, and location within a leading global city for social innovation, will allow me to achieve my career goals and expand my network.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Christine McCurdy | New York, New York<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Johns Hopkins University, B.A. in International Studies, Minor in Spanish Language & Hispanic Culture, 2009<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Co-Director with Peace Project Nicaragua; Program Officer, Farmer-to-Farmer Program with Partners of the Americas.<\/p>\n

Current Employment:<\/strong> Program Director at Urban Alliance<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> Social Enterprise with a focus in Entrepreneurship for Poverty Alleviation<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Women’s employment and economic development\u00a0in developing countries,\u00a0specifically Latin America
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\n\u201cSocial Enterprise is the ideal fit for my passion for human-centered work, desire to tackle large-scale social challenges, and interest in building strategic and quantitative skills in order to effectively tackle these challenges. I wanted a bit of business but wanted to make sure to keep my concentration on positive social change and surround myself with people from other countries, industries, and with experiences different from mine. Luckily, I’ve found the perfect balance in the Social Enterprise program at AU! After observing a couple of classes and meeting students from earlier SE cohorts, I knew it was for me.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>
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James McDowell | Dallas, TX<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Howard University, B.A. Political Science, 2010<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> E.L. Haynes Public Charter School<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Internships\/Work While at AU:<\/strong> Program Assistant for The Charles Rangel International Programs<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> I am interested in using education as a means of community development.<\/p>\n

\u201cI chose the Social Enterprise program at American because of the interdisciplinary and practical curriculum. With this program as a tool I know I will have the knowledge of an academic and the skill of a practitioner to wholly address real world problems.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Kate McElligott | Naperville, IL<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Providence College, M.A. Political Science, 2004<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> CCS Fundraising consultancy, Microcredit Summit Campaign<\/p>\n

Work While at AU:<\/strong> Senior Regional Development Officer, Grameen Foundation<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Post-AU Employment:<\/strong> Senior Manager, Strategic Partnerships, Grameen Foundation<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Market-based solutions to poverty alleviation, economic development in emerging markets, and corporate social responsibility<\/p>\n

“I chose the M.A. in Social Enterprise program at AU for the flexibility in course offering and emphasis on practical application of academic theory. With a mix of international affairs and management courses, AU leverages best practices within both fields to create the next generation of leaders in global social innovation . In addition, the program emphasizes change management, innovation, and leadership through real-world problems outside the classroom, which is critical experience for managing and leading a social enterprise or new initiative within an existing organization.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Miriam Mehdi | Lahore, Pakistan<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> MBA, Concentration: Human Resource and Marketing, 2011, B.A. Business Administration, Concentration: Marketing, 2010, National University of Computer and Emerging Sciences Pakistan<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Shell Pakistan Limited, Kansai Paint Pakistan<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> International economic empowerment, social enterprise consultancy, analytics and impact investment, poverty alleviation, illiteracy eradication<\/p>\n

\u201cSocial enterprise program at AU is the perfect cross roads between business management and social innovation. In this fast developing world the need of social welfare via economic development is dire. I hope that this program will equip me with the right skill set to be an entrepreneur and leader for the social advancement of the global community, particularly Pakistan.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Kristen Moses | Silver Spring, MD<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Northwestern University, B.S. Journalism and Political Science, 2007<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Multimedia Producer,\u00a0The News Journal<\/em>\u00a0in Wilmington, Del.; Web Content\/Social Media Lead, Veterans Health Administration<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise; M.I., Peace Corps<\/p>\n

Internships\/Work While at AU:<\/strong> Fall Associate with the Council on Foundations Public-Philanthropic Partnership Initiative, American University Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution In-Hall Mediator, The Grameen Foundation Bankers without Borders Volunteer<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Program marketing and evaluation in a technical environment<\/p>\n

“For many years, I have been an observer; a sympathetic, but impartial chronicler of lives and activities I have encountered. Joining the Social Enterprise program at American University is my first step towards becoming a ‘doer’ and expanding my contribution to my community. Integrating this academic preparation with a Peace Corps mission will give me opportunity to explore case studies and theoretical ideals as they can be applied in the field.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Kerri Murphy | Stony Point, NY<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Bryant University, B.S. International Business, 2008<\/p>\n

Previous Employment:<\/strong> Baltic American Enterprise Fund, Morgan Stanley, and Cane & Boniface, PC<\/p>\n

Work While at AU:<\/strong> Chief Operating Officer (COO), William James Foundation<\/p>\n

Post-AU Employment:<\/strong> Manager, Certification Program at WEConnect International<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Stephanie Navarrete | El Paso, TX<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Texas Tech University, B.A. Honors Arts & Letters and International Studies, 2010<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Founder and CEO of Rue Sophie; United States Agency for International Development, American Embassy, San Salvador, El Salvador<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Corporate social responsibility in for-profit private sector industries and innovative strategies for channeling capitalism’s power towards the advancement of society<\/p>\n

\u201cThe unique curriculum at American University, where an emphasis is placed on doing, is appealing for hands on individuals as myself. I have the opportunity to participate in a community of innovators where I can develop both as a business owner and activist. At AU I expect to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to transform any business into a social entrepreneurial venture worthy of the title.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Jessica Nehrbass | New Orleans, LA<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> University of Richmond, B.A. in Political Science (Minor in Economics), 2008<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Program Training Coordinator, USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service<\/p>\n

Work While at AU:<\/strong> Global Program Support Consultant, CNFA
\nand Social Enterprise Coordinator, Abriendo Mentes<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A. in Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Social Entrepreneurship Consulting, Faith-Based International Development, Small Business Development, Startups<\/p>\n

\u201cThe future of social enterprise to me is an emerging paradigm shift calling for businesses to achieve profitability through more socially-responsible operations. I want to be one of the actors propelling this movement. Because of the curriculum’s flexibility, the MA program in Social Enterprise allows me to gain hard business skills while incorporating them into a new approach in international community development. I\u2019m looking forward to building practical experience in the social enterprise field through the program\u2019s professional network, as well as working with the open-minded and encouraging SE faculty to develop my entrepreneurial ideas for faith-based sustainable business.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Ianhuong Nguyen | Hanoi, Vietnam<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> B.A. International Relations, Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Lead Auditor, Underwriter Laboratory<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise with a concentration in corporate social responsibility (CSR)<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Workers rights in the global supply chain<\/p>\n

\u201cI am seeking a life-changing event.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Kateland Oakes | Hope, ME<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> B.S. Global & Environmental Studies, Principia College, 2010<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> The Christian Science Monitor, Seeds of Peace, The Euphrates Institute<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Impact investment and international development<\/p>\n

\u201cTo me, Social Enterprise is the future of business, development and many other sectors. I am excited to be a part of a program that combines business, innovation, and social change in order to better our world.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>
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Sarah Oakes | Hope, Maine<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Comparative Religious Studies<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Frontier Communications, The Christian Science Monitor, The Euphrates Institute<\/p>\n

Current Employment:<\/strong> Experiential Learning Program Coordinator, American University<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> MA in Social Enterprise with a concentration in leadership development<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Leadership Development and Corporate Social Responsibility<\/p>\n

“I chose the Social Enterprise program at American University because it offers an alternative “both\/and” way of thinking that blends the passion and service-oriented solutions of the non-profit world with the business knowledge and focused performance drive of the private sector. With an emphasis on problem-solving and innovation through, I believe this program will help students build the foundational skills to lead organizations, industries, and cultures working to create positive change within our world.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Colin Rice | Towson, Maryland<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Sewanee: The University of the South, B.A. Anthropology, minor in Business, 2010<\/p>\n

Current Employment:<\/strong> Do More mission, Mayberg Family Charitable Foundation<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise with a concentration in economic empowerment<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Livelihood development, microfinance, impact investing, community development<\/p>\n

“I was drawn to this program for the hands-on approach, the flexibility, and the access to the incredible networks at AU and around DC. I want to graduate with both the knowledge of important ideas and approaches in the sector, as well as the concrete experience of putting those ideas into practice, and the MA in Social Enterprise give me the chance to do that.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Maribel Rodriguez | Brooklyn, New York<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Rochester Institute of Technology, Bachelor of Fine Arts, Professional Photographic Illustration, 2013<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Kindergarten Teaching Fellow at Basis Independent Brooklyn, Photography Teaching Assistant at The International Center of Photography<\/p>\n

Current Employment:<\/strong> Teaching aide at the Friendship Heights Children Center<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> Social Enterprise with a concentration in Children Studies; Education, Ethnography, Psychology, Art and Behavioral Therapy<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> \u201cI hope to one day open a center for children from low income backgrounds, offering extra-curricular activities and guidance to enhance their natural potential for emotional, social, physical and academic growth. In the meantime I would like to work with a firm dedicated to helping children through Social and Emotional Learning.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI chose Social Enterprise because I met people here who are passionate about creating, maintaining and understanding social impact. This program was the right fit for me because it is a positive place with positive values.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>
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Steven Rodriguez | Los Angeles, CA<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Dickinson College, B.A. Psychology, 2014<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Current Employment:<\/strong> Lead Innovation Office,\u00a0Inspirational Medicine Foundation<\/a><\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise with a concentration in Healthcare development and non-profit management<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> To continue fostering a worldwide, socially responsible, business culture that addresses society’s most pressing needs. Finding ways to utilize advancement in technology to address the gaps with psychosocial healthcare.<\/p>\n

\u201cI was attracted to this program for two main reasons. First, Washington D.C. is one of the start-up and non-profit capitals of the world. Here, passionate entrepreneurs seek to act on their respective missions. As I immerse myself in this energetic environment, I feel empowered and driven to reach my career goals. Second, this program provides a unique opportunity to create your own path to success while guiding you through the key principles that define social entrepreneurs. I look forward to honing my professional skills in a collaborative and supportive atmosphere so I can execute my ideas for societal benefit.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Caitlin Rosser | Amityville, NY<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Kogod School of Business & School of International Service, American University, B.A. in Business Administration, focusing on International Business and International Relations, 2011<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Financial Management Analyst at the U.S. Department of Justice; Communications Intern at the U.S. Department of Justice; Communications Intern at the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence, Washington, DC<\/p>\n

Work While at AU:<\/strong> Management Analyst at the U.S. Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.; Monitoring & Evaluation Consultant at Awamaki, Peru<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise, concentration in Social Enterprise Financial Management and Monitoring & Evaluation<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Organizational financial management, Impact Evaluation and Project Design, Monitoring, & Evaluation; Social Enterprise Business Development, Fundraising & Social Enterprise Financing Plan Development<\/p>\n

\u201cI chose American University\u2019s Social Enterprise program because of its emphasis on innovative cross-sector and practitioner-focused coursework. The Social Enterprise program will help me blend my interdisciplinary passions for financial management, financial inclusion, and social justice, and turn these passions into a viable career.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Gurmat Sahni | Dehli, India<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> BSC. in Business Administration<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Co-founder of Grand Slam Baseball, Managing Partner Weldon Sales Corporation<\/p>\n

Current Employment:<\/strong> Co-founder of Grand Slam Baseball<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> MA in Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Grassroots rural development:<\/p>\n

“I am interested in equipping people belonging to low income groups in rural areas with the means and resources to create a sustainable model of generating income. I chose AU’s Social Enterprise program because I wish to set up an organisation that will act as an integrating network to create and strengthen private-NGO partnerships. My area of focus lies in creating ecosystems for collaborative production and consumption in rural areas. I am also interested in finding innovative ways to attract more private resources to the field of social entrepreneurship.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/section>
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Michael Sayre | Bogota, Colombia<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Suffolk University, B.A. International Affairs\/European History, 2005<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Director of New Initiatives at Partners of the Americas<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Post-AU Employment:<\/strong> Technical Officer, Root Change<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> To be a leader in social innovation in Latin America and participate in the development of an ecosystem that supports innovative cross-sector approaches that address pressing social problems in the region.<\/p>\n

“I chose American University\u2019s M.A. in Social Enterprise because the program provided me with an opportunity to deepen my understanding of development practices and learn effective approaches to leading and creating innovative for-profit, non- profit and hybrid ventures. By being housed in the School of International Service, I am in an environment where my peers bring a wide range of experiences and have unique insights on issues such as poverty alleviation, diplomacy, service delivery strategies and management practices. The program\u2019s focus on service and innovation in this unique environment is a blueprint of the cross-sector approach that I feel will be critical in creating the solutions to today\u2019s most pressing problems.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Sara Mizuta Seavey | Wayne, PA<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Connecticut College, B.A. International Relations, 2006<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Fund for Global Human Rights, Center for Women Policy Studies, The Maureen and Mike Mansfield Foundation<\/p>\n

Work While at AU:<\/strong> Consulting, Honest Tea and the Maureen and Mike Mansfield Foundation<\/p>\n

Post-AU Employment:<\/strong> Program Officer II at FHI 360<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Public-Private Partnerships, economic development with an emphasis on women’s empowerment, corporate social responsibility and market-based solutions to poverty alleviation
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“I chose the M.A. in Social Enterprise program at AU for the academic training with real world field experience and practical policy which will prepare me to become an a effective practitioner that can bridge both developing and developed worlds.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Bryant Sewell | Woodbridge, Virginia<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Christopher Newport University<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> District of Columbia Public Schools, Office of the Chief of Staff<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> Masters of Arts in Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Anything that empowers those who have been marginalized or excluded to develop options for change.<\/p>\n

“Albert Einstein stated ‘In the middle of every difficulty, lies opportunity.’ This quote encapsulates what drives me and those who pursue opportunities in our field.\u00a0I chose a program located within American University\u2019s School of International Service to focus inward, here on local communities. Around the world like-minded changemakers are developing innovative and sustainable\u00a0solutions\u00a0that are connecting or reintegrating segments of our population\u00a0into the\u00a0economy and civil\u00a0society. My goal is to combine shared global values and the creative freedoms that the field of Social Enterprise provides to disrupting the compounding effects of\u00a0inequality\u00a0in America. Lastly, it was the people. Before applying, I had the\u00a0opportunity\u00a0to meet current student, alums, and faculty, the close-knit nature of the program did me in.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Aaron Shneyer | Washington, DC<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Georgetown University, B.A. Cultural Anthropology and Music, 2005<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise with a concentration in Media, Communications and Conflict Transformation<\/p>\n

Work While at AU:<\/strong> Founder and Executive Director,\u00a0Heartbeat<\/a><\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Utilize the tools of social business, music and the popular media to transform conflicts. This effort is underway with Heartbeat, which uses music to build trust across a critical mass of Israelis and Palestinians.
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\u201cI chose to be here because the faculty of the Social Enterprise program show unparalleled support for their students and enable us to take advantage of and help build a world class incubator to develop our projects and skills. SIS in general is much more concerned with activism and challenging the status quo than any major university I have ever encountered. Being at AU, in DC and in the US, opens up many opportunities to push forward large scale changes.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Louis Tuntufye Sichali | Lilongwe, Malawi<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Bachelor of Education, University of Malawi, Chancellor College.<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Lilongwe Technical College, Teacher of business studies and basic accounting.<\/p>\n

AU Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A. Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Microfinance, Youth empowerment, Financial and Entrepreneurship literacy.<\/p>\n

“I chose the social enterprise program at AU because it has a good combination of courses that would equip me into becoming an asset to the youth of my country Malawi. I believe the program will empower me into advocating for entrepreneurship for the Malawian youth especially in the vocational schools. It will also assist me into improving the credit score of the youth who cannot easily access finance for business ventures, by providing them with the relevant financial literacy.”\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Eula Sorie | Freetown, Sierra Leone<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Frostburg State University, B.S. Business Administration, Human Resource Management, 2009<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise with a concentration in gender and women issues<\/p>\n

Work While at AU:<\/strong> University Research Co., LLC<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Women Empowerment, Human Rights, International Development, and Social Businesses
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\n“This program is catered specifically for individuals like me; people who have a deep appreciation and passion for the advancement of society. This program is not confided to the business, international, public or private sectors rather it’s a combination of all of these sectors.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Sara Stromer | Monument, CO<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Boston College, B.A. Social Science, 2009<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> National Bureau of Economic Research<\/p>\n

Work While at AU:<\/strong> Grameen Foundation<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Public-Private Partnerships, local community building, economic development with an emphasis on women’s empowerment, and market-based solutions to poverty alleviation<\/p>\n

“After many years in the workforce, I decided to fully devote myself to doing what I feel most passionate about. I wanted to learn how I could most effectively affect positive change in the world, and the Social Enterprise program at AU is the perfect place to gain the knowledge and hands-on experience I was looking for. I am thrilled to be a part of this innovative, dynamic program. The classes are taught by excellent faculty, I am gaining practical applied experience, and I am surrounded by incredibly dedicated, creative, and engaged classmates.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Jennifer Stutman | Baltimore, Maryland<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> The George Washington University, B.A. in International Affairs with focus in European Development, with Minors in Political Science and History, 2014<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Pre-AU employment:<\/strong> Hotline Staffer, National Sexual Assault Hotline at RAINN<\/p>\n

Current Employment:<\/strong> Hotline Call Specialist, National Human Trafficking Resource Center at Polaris<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise, M.I. Peace Corps<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Intrapreneurship, violence reduction, women empowerment, human rights<\/p>\n

\u201cI am a firm believe in social enterprise because for me it represents a maintainable form of development that empowers the very people that are receiving assistance. To me, that is what all development should be, sustainable and liberating\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Sara Telzer | Claremont, CA<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> University of California, Santa Barbara, B.A. Law and Society, 2008<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Santa Barbara Public Defenders Office, Hadsell, Stormer, Keeny, Richardson & Renick LLP, Tempest Telecom Solutions, Children of South Africa, International Education Research Foundation<\/p>\n

Work While at AU:<\/strong> Operations Coordinator, Ashoka\u2019s Youth Venture<\/p>\n

Post-AU Employment:<\/strong> Client Relations Officer, Bankers without Borders at Grameen Foundation<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Maximize both social good and economic gains through for-benefit businesses and social enterprises to create sustainable and effective ways to address our world\u2019s most pressing problems.<\/p>\n

“I chose American University\u2019s M.A. in Social Enterprise because the program offered me an entire degree in the courses I wanted to take and the education, tools and skills I wanted to acquire. AU\u2019s M.A. Social Enterprise program provides an education grounded in practical and experiential learning, with a well rounded offering of theoretical, management, financial and business course options. Further, the program is housed in AU\u2019s renowned School of International Service, allowing its students unparalleled access to courses in International Development, International Affairs and International Communication; topics critical to the evolution, scale and success of social enterprises here and abroad.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Andreas Vailakis | Redlands, CA<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> University of Southern California, B.A. Spanish and Philosophy, 2006<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment (s):<\/strong> Program Director, Center for Global Entrepreneurship (CGE) in Peru; Director and founder, Beyond Volunteering in Peru; Program Coordinator, Study Abroad in Peru and Ecuador<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise, International Development and Business Management<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Bridging the nonprofit and private sectors with an international focus on Latin America. Development of small-medium sized businesses<\/p>\n

\u201cTraditional approaches to business, nonprofits, and international development are changing and lines between these are more blurred than ever. I moved to DC and joined the Social Enterprise program to be in the heart of this exciting social entrepreneurship movement, while building skills and a network. I was especially drawn to the innovative approaches of the program, practical and applicable skill-sets developed, while having the program housed in a top-tier International Development school, SIS.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Stevie Valdez | Gilbert, AZ<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Gonzaga University, B.A. Economics and Latin American Studies with concentration in Entrepreneurial Leadership, 2009<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Colegio Americano de San Carlos, Wells Fargo<\/p>\n

Work while at AU:<\/strong> Project Coordinator at Marq Energie, Enterprise Development Intern in Relief International’s Social Enterprise Division<\/p>\n

Post-AU Employment:<\/strong> Senior Associate, Impact Investing & Market Development, United Nations Foundation<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Social business model and strategy consulting, social finance, developing emerging markets, corporate social responsibility, SME development<\/p>\n

“I chose the M.A. program in Social Enterprise, because I wanted to learn both business size and the social\/cultural components of entering in an emerging market and starting an enterprise for the social good. There is a freedom to specialize your degree and make it what you want it. This program allows you to gain a deeper understanding of all of the factors that make a great social business through classes, internship opportunities and experiential learning.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Pomai Verzon | Nashville, TN<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Belmont University, B.A. Political Science and B.S. Economics, 2012<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> LEAF: Linking, Educating, and Advancing Families; Tennessee Immigrant & Refugee Rights Coalition; ACLU of Tennessee<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise \u2013 International Development and Venture Design<\/p>\n

Internships\/Work wWhile at AU:<\/strong> Cause – The PhilanthroPub, Grameen Foundation<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Poverty alleviation and international development through market-based strategies with increased sustainability and community collaboration<\/p>\n

Post-AU Employment:<\/strong> Fellow, IDEX Accelerator<\/p>\n

\u201cI chose the M.A. in Social Enterprise program at AU due to its focus on practical application of theory and exploration through action. Offering a multidisciplinary approach, the program gleans the best from the private, public, and NGO world to create change in an innovate, sustainable, and socially responsible way.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Rebecca Villalobos | Tulsa, Oklahoma<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> Oral Roberts University, B.A. in International Relations with a minor in French, 2012<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Program Manager at Center for the Creation of Economic Wealth<\/p>\n

Current Employment:<\/strong> Social Innovations Fellow at Pact<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> Social Enterprise with a concentration in Economic Development and Impact Assessment<\/p>\n

\u201cI chose the Social Enterprise program because it had an extreme practitioner focus and fostered an environment where you would be able to not only learn from your faculty, but also your peers who have really done the work and are updated on the latest trends. Other programs that I looked at did not offer this. Since I have joined the Social Enterprise I have been able to tailor the program to my exact needs and have found a second family with my peers and faculty.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Trey Waters | Darien, CT<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> University of Colorado, Boulder, B.A. Economics, 2006<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Business Development Associate, British Consulate General, Chicago; Small Enterprise Development Volunteer, Peace Corps, Ghana<\/p>\n

AU Degree Program and Concentration:<\/strong> M.A., Social Enterprise<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Impact Investing, International Development, Entrepreneurship<\/p>\n

\u201cI am interested in spending the next two years studying entrepreneurship as a form of sustainable development. Also, being located in Washington DC, American University is able to provide connections to internationally focused organizations where I am able to practice my lessons from the classroom and gaining important hands on experience.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Setra Yappi | Surabaya, Indonesia<\/h3>\n
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Degree (s):<\/strong> University of Texas at Austin, B.S. in Petroleum Engineering, 2008<\/p>\n

Pre-AU Employment:<\/strong> Petroleum Engineer at EOG Resources, Inc.<\/p>\n

Work While at AU:<\/strong> Business Advisor at Sandler Trade LLC<\/p>\n

Post-AU Employment:<\/strong> Project Manager, Marq Energie Consulting<\/p>\n

Career Interest:<\/strong> Entrepreneurship, trade and development<\/p>\n

\u201cSocial entrepreneurship, for me, is optimism transformed into creative action. There is a vast array of social problems around us, and many demand a multidisciplinary approach to address them. A social enterprise is a realization of rigid boundaries broken down for the sake of the sustainability of our evolving civilization. American University is committed to engage practitioners to learn and collaborate in order to be the leading edge of a movement providing service to the interconnected global community. And I am proud to be part of it.”<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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