Chanel Williams (MNS ‘28) joins the LBJ School of Public Affairs this August as part of the inaugural cohort of the Master of National Security program. The new program brings together students who are preparing for impactful careers in defense, intelligence, homeland security, and foreign policy.
Not far from her hometown of San Antonio, Texas, Williams recently graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with a degree in International Relations and Global Studies, focusing on European Security Studies.
During her time at UT Austin, Williams participated in the Clements Center for National Security’s London May Term program and completed a Senior Honors Thesis with support from LBJ-affiliated faculty including Professor Paul Pope, who is set to become the Interim Dean of the LBJ School.
"Through that research and involvement with the Clements Center for National Security, I saw firsthand the school's commitment to research, public service, and mentorship. Choosing LBJ was a natural next step because it allows me to continue learning from leading scholars and practitioners while preparing for a career in national security and law.”
Her interest in national security started at home. She grew up hearing stories from her great-grandfather, a Korean War veteran, which first sparked her interest in international conflict and public service.
That interest grew stronger after she joined the Clements Center’s London May Term program, where she learned more about global security issues and how different countries approach them.
As she prepares to join us on the Forty Acres this fall, Williams is especially excited to be part of the first Master of National Security cohort.
"Being part of the inaugural Master's in National Security cohort at the LBJ School is an absolute honor. The opportunity to participate in a brand-new program at one of the nation's leading public policy institutions is incredibly exciting, and there is no better place than UT Austin and the LBJ School to launch a program focused on preparing the next generation of national security leaders."
Williams looks forward to learning from leading national security professionals, collaborating with her fellow students, and helping shape a program that will prepare future leaders in the field.
Williams is particularly interested in the intersection of law and national security and in understanding how policy decisions are developed and implemented in practice. Through the master's program, she aims to deepen her knowledge of intelligence, policy, and legal frameworks.
"I am excited to learn from distinguished leaders such as Admiral McRaven and Admiral Maguire. I also hope to gain experience through internships, particularly in Washington, D.C., and build lasting connections within the LBJ community.”
After graduating from LBJ, Williams plans to attend law school and pursue a career in national security law. Her long-term goal is to work across the fields of law, intelligence, and public policy, helping address complex national security challenges.
As part of the first Master of National Security cohort, Williams is helping set the tone for a new program at the LBJ School and the kind of impact its students hope to make. We’re excited to welcome her to the LBJ community this fall!
Learn more about the LBJ School's new Master of National Security program here.
