How Many Returned Peace Corps Volunteers Became Diplomats and Ambassadors?

While there is no precise number of Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs) who have become diplomats or ambassadors, it is well-known that many RPCVs have pursued careers in public service, including roles in diplomacy. Historically, several notable U.S. ambassadors and diplomats have been Peace Corps alumni. The emphasis on service and leadership in the Peace Corps often translates into careers in government and international relations.

If you're looking for a more specific count or recent statistics on this topic, you might want to check reports from the Peace Corps or organizations that track RPCV career paths. The National Peace Corps Association (NPCA) might also have relevant information on RPCVs in diplomatic roles. According to recent estimates, only three RPCVs have become ambassadors after their Peace Corps service. This is likely due to the true spirit of service in which Peace Corps volunteers operate. Nowadays, ambassadorships are often given as rewards for campaign donations or political favors.

A Notable List of RPCVs in Diplomatic Roles

Historically, some notable volunteers have made a mark in diplomatic careers. Here is a list of well-known volunteers who have served as ambassadors or in related positions:

Christopher R. Hill: Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Cameroon 1974-76 Vicki Huddleston: Ambassador to Mali and Madagascar, Charge d'Affaires to Haiti and Ethiopia, and Principal Officer to the US Interests Section in Havana, Peru 1964-66 Darryl N. Johnson: Ambassador to Thailand, Thailand 1962-65 Kathleen Stephens: Ambassador to South Korea, South Korea 1975-1977

Both the State Department and USAID have many returned Peace Corps volunteers who are civil and foreign service officers. For many RPCVs, the Peace Corps was their first experience living overseas, learning a new language, and living in a low-resource environment. This experience shapes their careers and often leads them to pursue roles in government and international relations.

The Foreign Service as a Path for Many RPCVs

Many RPCVs take advantage of the competitive hiring after leaving the Peace Corps. Many also apply for the Foreign Service while still in the Peace Corps because they can take the test at embassies where they are serving. As a result, the Foreign Service is a common path for many returned Peace Corps volunteers. The experience of living and working in a foreign environment can be truly transformative, opening up new opportunities in international relations and diplomacy.

A Case in Point: Ambassador Christopher Stevens

It's important to note that many returned Peace Corps volunteers have gone on to have distinguished careers. One of the most tragic and notable examples is Ambassador Christopher Stevens, who was killed in Benghazi. Ambassador Stevens was a returned Peace Corps volunteer, highlighting the depth of the impact the Peace Corps has on its volunteers and their future roles in public service.