DSU hosts U.S. Ambassador to Ecuador for a fireside chat

Opportunities to engage in meaningful discussions with a high-ranking government official appointed by the President of the United States are rare. Still, students at Delaware State University had that unique opportunity during a fireside chat with Arthur Brown, the U.S. Ambassador to Ecuador. 

The event, held on November 19 at the Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center, was organized by DSU’s Department of History, Political Science, Philosophy, and Law Studies and the Department of State’s Hometown Diplomats program, which connects U.S. diplomats with students and community organizations. 

Ambassador Brown’s career spans over 30 years and has led to service in Africa, Southwest Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. He oversees the U.S. diplomatic mission in Ecuador, working alongside the government, private sector, civil society organizations, and Ecuadorian citizens to strengthen democracy, promote human rights, fight corruption, foster inclusive economic growth, and protect the environment. 

During the fireside chat, Ambassador Brown engaged with students by sharing his humble beginnings and the inspiration behind his decision to pursue a career in public service, driven by a deep desire to positively impact people around the world. 

“I believe that I can’t advance without pulling others along with me. It is pointless to be in a leadership role and not use that position to empower and uplift others along the way,” said Brown. 

The ambassador also offered valuable insights into the work of agencies such as the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Peace Corps, and the State Department’s Foreign Service, highlighting what they do and the qualities they seek in prospective applicants. Students listened attentively and were given the opportunity to ask the ambassador a wide range of questions, covering topics from career advice and academic planning to foreign policy.

Students finished the fireside chat with a wealth of knowledge about opportunities available worldwide and the motivation to continue their coursework and think strategically about their next steps. 

“The fireside chat with Ambassador Brown was an amazing opportunity to see what my career could look like in the future as someone who desires to become a diplomat,” said Bryanna Dawson, a senior International Studies major. “I appreciated his honesty and I feel more prepared to handle the expectations that may come with representing the United States.”

Appreciation for Ambassador Brown’s visit to campus was also shared by the faculty and staff in attendance. 

“The department was delighted to welcome Ambassador Brown for an engaging discussion with students. His firsthand insights from his distinguished career in the Foreign Service, along with the valuable opportunities he shared, were truly invaluable to our students,” said Dr. Donna A. Patterson, Chair of the Department of History, Political Science, Philosophy, and Law Studies & Director of Africana Studies.

“DSU is a committed environment to advance learning and support students with more exposure to a wider world,” said Ambassador Brown.

Written by Devin Bonner