Bridging Skies and Borders

JMU European Union Policy Studies (EUPS) graduate program welcomed back alumna, Ms. Elizabeth Hammer (‘14) to speak with students about her career in international diplomacy. Current EUPS student, Alexandra Wilson Tuman ('24), interviewed her to learn more about her inspirational journey.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this newsletter article are solely those of the individual author and interviewee and do not represent the opinions or official stance of any organization, institution, or entity with which the author or interviewee may be affiliated.

When I first met Liz, I knew right away that she was deeply committed to giving back and sharing her knowledge of professional diplomacy. Having graduated from JMU and pursuing a career in international affairs and diplomacy, Liz virtually spoke to our EUPS 2024 cohort in the fall semester, so my colleagues and I were elated to meet her in person in early spring. In both sessions, Liz shared her wealth of knowledge with us. Later, I had the opportunity to sit down with Liz and ask her about her career path and professional experiences. 

While Liz initially studied the Middle East in her undergraduate career, learning about the European Union through the master’s program added to her repertoire of expertise. Following graduation from the EUPS program, Liz embarked on a career path that combined her technical acumen of the European Union with her diplomatic aspirations. Beginning at the US Navy, Liz took on different roles in the defense and security sectors. She underwent training in diplomatic protocols, international relations, and policy implementation. Her ability to navigate complex issues with clarity and precision was evident and it propelled her into roles of increasing responsibility. 

When I asked Liz about the skills that helped her achieve success in these positions, she shared with me personal anecdotes about her time in Florence that helped her throughout her career. Alongside technical knowledge, Liz emphasized how living abroad equipped her with a strong sense of tenacity and problem-solving. When speaking about this experience, Liz shared: 

“When my class would need to meet weekly in Fiesole, we would take a bus to get there. However, this bus was often late or would not come at all. At that moment, we would need to decide as a group whether to walk or figure out how to call a taxi to our area. Although it seems small, these moments taught me about problem-solving, decision-making, and how to do that fast. It stood out to employers that I was prepared to meet obstacles and move to solutions quickly.”

Liz’s experience in the EUPS program taught her how to manage complex issues and make strategic decisions without hesitation. Today, Liz holds the prestigious position of Chief of Air and Space at the US Embassy in London, where she oversees a wide range of initiatives aimed at advancing cooperation between the United States and the United Kingdom in aviation and aerospace. In this capacity, she serves as the key liaison between government agencies, industry stakeholders, and academic institutions on both sides of the Atlantic. Liz’s journey from student to Chief of Air and Space at the US Embassy in London shows the transformative power of not only education but experience. No matter what we learn from our textbooks, Liz teaches us that we may find our most important lessons outside the classroom.  

Alexandra Wilson Tuman, JD is a EUPS student and the program's Communications and Recruitment Graduate Assistant. Alexandra graduated cum laude from JMU in 2019 with a BA in International Affairs and a BS in Communication Studies. She recently graduated from Seton Hall Law in May 2023. After graduation, Alexandra hopes to use her legal knowledge to continue working in international policy.