Alumni Profiles
Jacob Williams, 2017
Following a highly competitive application process, Valparaiso University alumnus Jacob Williams (B.A.’17) is one of 15 individuals nationwide selected by the U.S. Department of State for the notable Foreign Affairs Information Technology (FAIT) Fellowship. In this two-year fellowship program, Williams will receive up to $75,000 in academic funding for a two-year IT-related master’s degree program, two summer internships, professional development and mentorship. Upon successful completion of the fellowship, he will receive an appointment in the Foreign Service as an Information Management Specialist. Born and raised in northwest Indiana, Jacob Williams earned a bachelor’s degree in international relations and global service, specializing in Middle East studies with a minor in computer science, from Valparaiso University. He studied in Arabic language programs in Jordan and Palestine, and he was a U.S. Peace Corps volunteer focusing on youth development in Morocco. Williams currently serves as an Educational Technology Specialist at Valparaiso University, managing a modest student staff and providing technical support to the entire campus community. As a FAIT Fellow, Williams plans to pursue a master’s degree in cybersecurity and risk management policy. He speaks multiple dialects of Arabic, and his hobbies include music (both consuming and creating), cycling, exploring the world, and voicing strong opinions on all things related to the Star Wars universe. “There is no better way to enter government service while honoring the experiences that forced my individual growth and helped develop the skills that I have built over the years,” says Williams. “I’m honored to be selected as a FAIT Fellow and believe this opportunity will serve as the most fulfilling way of manifesting the path forward towards my ambitions.”
