(San Marcos, Texas | Tuesday, October 17, 2023) – Peace Corps Director Carol Spahn today joined a fireside chat at Texas State University to inspire students to serve boldly with the Peace Corps. Director Spahn discussed the value of cultural immersion, transformative growth, and the sense of purpose gained from service.

Director Spahn emphasized the Peace Corps’ commitment to diversity and inclusion, as tackling today’s pressing global challenges requires leaders with perspectives from all walks of life. Peace Corps Colombia Volunteer Christopher Fairchild and Returned Peace Corps Volunteer Courtney Rae Goodson from Texas State University shared their experiences and how they made a difference in their host country communities. Across the board, Director Spahn and panelists espoused that the benefits of service far outlast the initial two-year commitment and credit their time as Volunteers in catapulting their careers.

The Peace Corps has a formal partnership with Texas State University, including a Coverdell Fellows and Peace Corps Prep Program. Since 1961, more than 300 Texas State University alumni have answered the call to serve.

The mission of the Peace Corps is to provide a service opportunity for motivated changemakers to immerse themselves in a community abroad, working side by side with local leaders to tackle pressing challenges. Building on 60 years of experience, the Peace Corps orients and trains its Volunteers to work in six sectors, including agriculture, community economic development, education, environment, health, and youth development. Visit www.peacecorps.gov/bold to learn more.