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Meet Our Team

Our Ambassadors are highly skilled young professionals specializing in National Security, Diplomacy, and Global Affairs. With rigorous training and a deep understanding of global issues, they adeptly tackle diplomatic challenges. Alongside them, our passionate Interns contribute by conducting research, organizing events, and offering fresh perspectives. Together, they promote a deeper understanding of international relations and proactive solutions to global challenges.

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Program Director | Board Member

Vanessa Bilbaeno Martin, PhD

Vanessa commenced her academic journey in the field of International Relations, culminating in the attainment of a doctoral degree in Business Administration. With a wealth of managerial experience spanning more than two decades, she is lauded for her adeptness in constructing culturally heterogeneous teams that enhance overall operational effectiveness.

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Ambassador | Head of Development

Cassian Persico Peña

Cassian is a multilingual professional who has held pivotal roles such as Regional Director for Strategy & Development at Grupo Atlántida and Economic Analyst for the Federal Reserve National Competition. He holds certifications in Finance, Business, and Law from institutions including Yale and The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

 

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Head of Communications

Dalia Reed

Dalia, a former diplomat, is currently on an inspiring academic journey as she pursues a Bachelor of Fine Arts in English and Creative Writing at Liberty University. Her passion for writing extends beyond mere words; she is deeply committed to the art of refinement, diligently honing her projects and transforming them into polished pieces that resonate with clarity and depth.

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Ambassador 

Jace Nath

Jace Nath has contributed his expertise on legal writing, cross-border program coordination, policy development, and equity-driven public engagement to the U.S. Department of State, pro bono legal organizations, and international advocacy networks. Holding a Master's in International Law and Human Rights from New York University, Jace is currently pursuing his final law degree at the University of Amsterdam, with the intention of practicing as a barred attorney.

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Ambassador

Amy Fulton

Amy, a graduate of Duke University, specializes in the fields of neuroscience and global health. She is dedicated to improving global health through her work and passionate advocacy. Amy also holds the role of Ambassador for the UN Foundation's United to Beat Malaria initiative making a positive impact on a global scale.

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Intern

Neima Izadi

Neima focuses on counterterrorism and cybersecurity, with intern experience in the government, startup, and nonprofit sectors. He has worked on research countering ISIS and Al-Qaeda propaganda, and has two years of full-time inside sales experience in IT/Payroll software. Neima holds a Bachelor’s in Criminology and a Master’s in Cybersecurity Management. He is conversationally skilled in Farsi and learning Arabic.

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Intern

Risha Gupta

Risha is currently pursuing her undergraduate in Global Affairs, with a minor in Arabic, at George Mason University. In addition to spearheading the curriculum development for IN Network's National Security Academy, she is an active member of CIMEA and the student-led Fed Insight. She also serves as the Project Manager for the State Department's Management Strategy and Solutions Outreach Team.

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Intern

Hiba Alkhuzaee

Hiba graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a degree in Political Science and a minor in Information Assurance. She was Vice President of the Model United Nations club, a member of Pi Sigma Alpha, held fellowships at Carnegie Mellon and the City of Ann Arbor, and interned at the U.S. Department of State. Her focus is on cybersecurity policy and international affairs.

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Chief of Staff

Nicole Crawford

Nicole graduated summa cum laude from Loyola University Maryland with a B.A. in Global Studies, Business, and Writing. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in International Affairs at American University, specializing in Global Security. Nicole also serves as the Co-Director of American University’s Women, Peace & Security chapter, advancing gender-informed global policy initiatives.

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Head of Membership & Outreach

Josh Phillips

Josh Phillips is the Head of Membership and Outreach for IN Network as well as the Co-Founder and COO of the Collegiate Institute of Middle East Affairs (CIMEA). As a Boren Scholarship and Critical Language Scholarship alumnus, he has previously worked for IRC, CSIS, and the U.S. Departments of State, Defense, and Homeland Security.

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Head of Events & Programming

Ghazal Habib

Ghazal is currently attending George Mason University and is the founder of Fed InSight, an initiative dedicated to empowering students with the support and knowledge they need to pursue successful careers in the federal sector. Fed InSight inspires students to forge meaningful connections and relationships that will guide them on their journey.

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Ambassador

Sean Schrader

Sean holds a Master's in Business Administration and has served as a Co-Chair for the US-ASEAN Young Professionals Association North America. In 2023, he was a Delegate for the United Nations Economic and Social Council Youth Forum. He also held the role of Campus Governor at the University of South Florida and worked for US Congressman Charlie Crist.

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Intern

Jacob Boggs

Jacob is pursuing a Master’s in International Security with a concentration in Intelligence at George Mason University. He holds a Bachelor’s in International Affairs, focused on Global Human Development, with a minor in Asian Studies. His research covers ITAR compliance, Drone AI technologies, and 3D-printed ballistic forensics.

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Intern

Juan Hall

Juan Hall has an Associate’s degree in Cybersecurity from Prince George’s Community College and is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. As a leader in Best Buddies, he advocates for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, demonstrating his commitment to community service and inclusion

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Intern

Sandra Senpeteri

Sandra is a student at George Washington University majoring in International Affairs with a concentration in Global Health Policy and a minor in Criminal Justice. Actively involved in the Women’s Pre-Law Student Association, she is passionate about women’s empowerment and advocacy. Sandra is committed to making a meaningful difference in her community and beyond.

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Junior Intern

Vance Martin

Vance is an ambitious high school student involved in the Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (MCJROTC), where he has developed leadership skills and discipline. Through training, community service, and leadership roles, he values teamwork and resilience. Vance has a passion for robotics engineering and explores how technology can be used in the military, envisioning innovative solutions to enhance operational efficiency. 

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