Xavierites, in their pursuit of a more just and humane society, hold positions at every level of policy and government. Because Xavier University of Louisiana is committed to introducing and developing students’ skills and opportunities in various ways, the University welcomes a diverse host of guest speakers from all fields and practices. Recently, Xavier had the pleasure of hosting Gentry O. Smith, the  United States Department of State Assistant Secretary, during a town hall with students.

“DSS [Diplomatic Security Service] opened new horizons for me and provided me the opportunity to serve all over the world,” Secretary Smith said. “Growing up in a small town in North Carolina, I never thought I would get to see all of the places I have. My heart is always with DSS, and I wanted to share my experiences with students at Xavier to hopefully inspire them to consider DSS as a career, especially as we continue to expand our opportunities for college graduates from underrepresented communities.”

The town hall meeting allowed for the discussion about the role of the Department of State in the safety of New Orleans. Students learned about the potential internship and job opportunities accessible through the DSS and the entire Department of State.

“DSS leads the U.S. Department of State in promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA). We are always hiring, and we need the next generation of leaders to join our team, travel the globe, and help secure our personnel, facilities, and information worldwide. If you are interested in this career, I encourage you to apply once you graduate,” Secretary Smith shared with the attending students.

The State Department holds many opportunities for students interested in learning about the nation’s broad range of security enforcement and policy. Secretary Smith wanted to encourage students of color to consider careers previously unavailable due to systematic racism. He also spoke with Leah Clark, a sophomore mass communication major and the chief writer for the Xavier Herald, at the University’s recently revamped Studio.

“As Assistant Secretary of State for Diplomatic Security, I oversee the DSS mission to lead worldwide security and law enforcement efforts to advance U.S. foreign policy. This position allows me to connect one on one with students of color at recruitment events, expand our DEIA initiative, and work to increase minority representation in foreign policy, all in an effort to help students of color see that they could have a successful career at the U.S. Department of State,” Secretary Smith said. “I plan to continue these efforts and have DSS reflect the face of America, with a diversity of backgrounds in our ranks.”

For those interested in learning more about potential internships through the Department of State, visit careers.state.gov/interns-fellows/student-internship-program/.