I am Autumn Cowell, a first-generation graduate student and a Portland, Oregon local. I am in the final year of my graduate program, seeking a Master's in Public Administration, specializing in Global Leadership and Management. I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Oregon, majoring in general social science with a focus on crime, law, and society, complemented by a minor in sociology. After completing my undergraduate studies, I stepped into the field of public service, initially in Early Childhood Education, where I served as an educator and later advanced to the role of Assistant Director at two childcare centers.
My journey in public service began within the nonprofit sector, igniting my ambition to diversify my skillset within various realms of public administration with a global outlook.
Throughout my academic pursuits, I have been fortunate to explore different corners of the globe. Most recently, I returned from participating in Portland State University’s Faculty-Led program in Cuba, titled "Governance, Community, and Contradictions." Amidst the constraints of the pandemic, which hindered travel opportunities, my engagement in the Cuba program reignited my passion for global involvement. The enriching experiences abroad have been a catalyst for change in my academic and professional growth and have profoundly impacted my personal development. This experience has opened many doors, including my recent opportunity to join the Office of Global Engagement and Innovation as this year’s Graduate Assistant!