Ashlin Stover is a third-year JMC student majoring in International Relations. She is also a lab leader with JMC's Human Rights Data Science Lab.
In early December, I had the opportunity to attend the Fall Summit hosted by the Obama Foundation in Chicago as a recipient of the Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship. During this conference, I was able not only to form meaningful connections with other members of the 2025-2027 Voyager Cohort, but also to hear from guest speakers whose advice helped define my public service aspirations and deepen my understanding of the importance of community.
I was able to hear from President Barack Obama and Brian Chesky in a closed Q&A session, which helped guide my public service passions and redefined how I approach both leadership and community. During this session, President Obama encouraged the room to think about the importance of listening. He reminded us that everyone has a story, and that we should never stop learning from those around us. Most importantly, he illustrated how a true leader never stops believing they have something to learn from everyone, which I will bring with me as I continue to pursue a career in public service. One insight that truly stayed with me, and will continue to guide my journey, is his reminder that it is more important to focus on what you want to do than who you want to be.
I was also able to participate in a closed session with Yoli Magallanes, Deputy Executive Director at Maremoto, a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening civic engagement and democracy, where she emphasized the importance of inclusive problem-solving and ensuring that everyone has a seat at the table. She also highlighted the value of building connections with those you want to learn from in the public service field and the significance of investing in people and relationships as the foundation for meaningful change.
Additionally, I had the privilege of connecting with many of the other Junior Voyagers in my cohort, which was truly inspiring. I was deeply moved by each of their individual stories, and I have never been in a room so full of passion, hope and commitment to making a difference. I was able to connect with a fellow Voyager over our shared passion for humanitarianism, ethical international engagement, and building a more just, rights-respecting global community. I was deeply inspired by her commitment to justice and energized by the public service work she shared with me from her own career journey. Being surrounded by peers who are so driven and values-oriented reaffirmed my belief in the power of community and collective action.
I am deeply grateful to the Obama Foundation team for putting together such a transformative and memorable experience. I am truly excited to carry these lessons forward as I continue pursuing a path rooted in public service, community connection, and positive change.