FAMU alumnus Calvin Hayes was recently appointed the newest
United States diplomat to Bangladesh. As a U.S. diplomat, Hayes will oversee
the Fulbright program, a United States sponsored international educational
exchange program, and will assist with press and publicity.
“As a foreign diplomat, my job is to promote American
values, encourage democracy and good governance, facilitate academic and
cultural exchange, and support U.S. foreign goals through strategic
communication and outreach,” Hayes said.
The former student body vice president will serve in this
position upon completion of an intensive training program at the Foreign
Service Institute. He is being trained in foreign policies and the official
language of Bangladesh, “Bangla.”
A 2010 graduate of the School of Journalism and Graphic
Communications (SJGC), Hayes credits much of his success to the guidance and
opportunities he received while attending FAMU. During his undergraduate years,
his interest in foreign service was sparked through his involvement in
programs like Camp Adventure and Study Abroad, where he traveled to Europe,
Israel, and East and West Africa.
“As a public relations student, Calvin honed his
communication skills, which will certainly come in handy in his new position,”
Donnellan said. “Calvin displayed a keen interest in international affairs and
by studying Arabic, he prepared himself to make a difference in an important
region of the world. Calvin will bring intelligence, empathy and passion to
support initiatives in this incredibly impoverished nation.”
Hayes’ staunch support of early international engagement
stems from the limited representation of minorities overseas. Hayes believes
that students should take advantage of scholarships and opportunities that
encourage international studies.
“I want to encourage students to study abroad, to learn
critical languages and remain aware of global issues,” Hayes said.
Hayes is the co-author of Chasing the Artificial Rainbow. He
will begin his two-year assignment to Bangladesh in April 2014.