The University community recognized outstanding award winners from the School of Security and Global Studies (SSGS) at the Commencement 2025 celebration earlier this month. Their hard work, dedication, and significant contributions to their fields and communities are inspiring.
These exceptional individuals represent the values of excellence, resilience and commitment that define our university. We look forward to seeing the continued impact they will make in the global community.
Dr. Wallace E. Boston Leadership Award: Dr. Isabelle Vladoiu
Dr. Isabelle Vladoiu is an award-winning international human rights law specialist, global security expert, and founder of the U.S. Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights (USIDHR). For over a decade, Dr. Vladoiu has trained more than 20,000 individuals globally in human rights, human trafficking prevention and international protocol.
Her work has earned recognition from two U.S. Presidents: the President’s Volunteer Service Award from President Trump (2018) and the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award from President Biden (2022). Also, Dr. Vladoiu has also collaborated with the United Nations, UNICEF, the World Bank and the Organization of American States on key global issues. She is also a bestselling author and holds a doctorate in global security from American Military University (AMU).
Dr. Vladoiu has faced numerous challenges throughout her career, particularly in gaining credibility as a young woman in high-level diplomatic spaces. Despite being initially overlooked, she used these challenges to fuel her growth, building the USIDHR and leading transformative programs in over 135 countries.
Her dedication to helping others, especially women and underrepresented communities, has been central to her success and her desire to leave a legacy of positive change for future generations. Her adaptability during the COVID-19 pandemic, transitioning her flagship program to an online format, allowed her to expand her impact even further.
Her academic journey at AMU played a pivotal role in her professional development, with her global security doctorate strengthening her skills in research, strategic thinking and global analysis. AMU’s real-world approach empowered her to make a tangible impact and has allowed her to confidently lead change on a global scale.
Her guiding principles are rooted in integrity, responsibility and service. She believes leadership is about doing the right thing, staying grounded in purpose and using knowledge to help others. This philosophy drives her commitment to advocating for vulnerable populations and her work in global human rights.
Dr. Vladoiu’s advice to future students is to remain resilient and focused on their purpose, regardless of the obstacles they face. She encourages other students to believe in themselves and keep pushing forward.
Graduate Academic Scholar Award: Vanessa Zander
Vanessa Zander began her academic journey at AMU in 2020, earning a bachelor’s degree in international relations and global security in April 2022. During that time, she maintained an impressive 3.96 GPA and earned the Undergraduate Academic Scholar Award in 2022.
Vanessa later continued her studies with the dual master’s degree in emergency management and homeland security. She maintained a 3.98 GPA, enabling her to receive the Graduate Academic Scholar Award this year.
After transitioning out of the Army following 10 years of service, Vanessa used her knowledge and experience to secure nine job offers. Now, she works as an Emergency Management Operational Response Specialist for PacifiCorp in Medford, Oregon. Her passion for emergency management grew from over 1,600 volunteer hours with the American Red Cross, which inspired her to leave the military and pursue a civilian career path focused on wildfire preparedness and response.
By creating a detailed plan for her future, Vanessa overcame setbacks, such as her challenging role as an Army Drill Sergeant. Her calculated risk-taking and careful planning were key to her successful transition.
Her advice to future students is simple: “You can do it!” Despite the challenges of balancing full-time work, family, and academics, Vanessa emphasizes the importance of setting attainable goals and never giving up.
Her academic journey at AMU equipped her with essential skills and resources, and the mentorship from professors played a vital role in her success. Staying motivated during tough times, like the loss of her father and the birth of her daughter, was challenging, but Vanessa stayed focused on her end goal of earning her dual master’s degree.
Undergraduate Academic Scholar Award: Josa Talley
Josa Talley is a Karuk Tribal member, mother, and environmental advocate committed to protecting Indigenous ecosystems and cultural practices. She holds an associate degree in fire science and a bachelor of science in fire science management from AMU.
Josa served in the U.S. Coast Guard four years, developing leadership and crisis management skills. Now, she works as the Communications and Outreach Coordinator for Save California Salmon and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in environmental policy and management. Her work and studies focus on advancing policies that support Tribal sovereignty, protect waterways, and promote sustainable land stewardship.
Josa’s academic journey at AMU provided her with the knowledge and skills needed for her work in environmental advocacy. Her degree in fire science equipped her with land management expertise, while her current studies in environmental policy will give her the tools to advocate for sustainability.
Josa has overcome personal hardships with the support of AMU’s flexible programs, professors and her family. She believes setbacks are opportunities for growth and views education as a tool to stay resilient in the face of challenges.
Her guiding principles are rooted in resilience, rest and balance. These values helped her to navigate her personal, academic and professional responsibilities while staying connected to her cultural traditions.
Josa’s advice to future students is to trust their instincts, embrace challenges as learning opportunities and build a strong support system. She emphasizes the importance of balance, mental well-being, and recharging to achieve both academic and personal success.
Balancing school, work, and family responsibilities has honed her time management and resilience. Through education, Josa aims to set an example for her children and show them that success is possible despite any obstacles.
About the School of Security and Global Studies
The School of Security and Global Studies is multidisciplinary and focused on global security, diplomacy, and international affairs. By providing students with a foundation in political science, history and strategic studies, the School of Security and Global Studies prepares students to tackle national and international security challenges. Students develop critical thinking and analytical skills designed to equip them to contribute to peace, stability, and justice in an interconnected world.
Comments are closed.