Judith VanBoven
Judith VanBoven is a Political Science master’s student at American University’s School of Public Affairs (SPA), where she proudly serves as President of SPA’s Graduate Student Council. Born in Ghana, and raised in Raleigh North Carolina, Judith brings her culture, faith, and passion for public service into everything she does. She is eager to create spaces on campus where students are empowered to use their voices and step into this new journey confidently.
Judith holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Criminal Justice and Psychology from UNC Charlotte, where she served as Senior Class President and Vice Chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. Her passion for politics, education, criminal justice reform, and public service continues to shape her work at American University. She is a graduate of AU’s We Lead Women in Politics Institute 2025–2026 cohort and currently serves as a Student Associate with the SINE Institute of Policy & Politics. Before starting her graduate program, she worked as a high school educator, an experience that strengthened her belief in the power of mentorship, representation, and helping young people recognize their own potential. That passion continued onto the pageant stage in 2026, when she represented NoMa D.C, as Miss NoMa in the Miss District of Columbia Scholarship Pageant, with the Miss America Organization. Through her community initiative, Next Gen V.I.P. (Voice, Identity, and Purpose), Judith advocates for the youth to be more informed, civically engaged, and confident participants in our democracy.
As SPA’s GSC President, Judith hopes, God willing, to make this year one centered on community, creating meaningful & fun memories, advocacy, and service—while ensuring that graduate students across the School of Public Affairs know that their voices matter. She is excited to serve and help build a graduate community where students from every background feel seen, represented, and a true sense of belonging, while creating a space where the next generation of leaders can thrive.
Graduate Leadership Council 