GLC Director of Communications Candidate

Biography

Mary Ellison McCoy is a master’s student at American University’s School of International Service, in the Global Governance, Politics, and Security program, with a concentration on global security. Her passion for the field of Political Science began in high school when she joined her school’s branch of South Carolina Youth in Government and participated in the local YMCA’s Y-Corps program.

She earned a Bachelor of Arts in French and International Relations from Wofford College, where she was selected to represent her International Affairs classmates in the prestigious Presidential Seminar. Through her additional academic experiences in France and Morocco, Mary Ellison developed a strong interest in the impact of colonization on regime stability. As she continues her graduate studies, she aims to apply her knowledge and experiences to shaping effective policies that promote stability and cooperation on an international scale.

Beyond academia, she enjoys exploring new restaurants in the DMV area and expressing her creativity through various artistic mediums, including painting and needlepoint. If elected, Mary Ellison hopes to use her platform to uplift graduate voices and promote inclusivity at American University.

Mission Statement

To: The American University Graduate Leadership Council and General Student Body

From: Mary Ellison McCoy, M.A. International Affairs, Global Governance, Politics, and Security.

My name is Mary Ellison McCoy, and I am delighted to announce my candidacy for the role of Director of Communications for the Graduate Leadership Council. As a graduate student specializing in Global Governance, Politics, and Security at the School of International Service, I am deeply committed to fostering inclusivity and collaboration across all American University graduate programs.

With a strong leadership background and professional experience in communications, I believe I am well-suited for this role. Serving as a class liaison between students and professors, I have actively advocated for student needs and facilitated open dialogue to enhance the academic experience. Additionally, my professional experience in communications has equipped me with the skills necessary to manage outreach efforts, promote engagement, and strengthen connections among all AU graduate cohorts.

If elected as Director of Communications, I promise to establish more transparent and accessible communication channels that empower graduate students to engage with the Graduate Leadership Council and one another. I will utilize my platform to amplify student voices, foster collaboration, and contribute to a more connected and inclusive AU community.
I am eager for the opportunity to serve GLC and to help create a graduate experience that is engaging for all. I would be honored to have your support.