Imani Esparza Pitman, a 2009 University of Richmond graduate, says she connects with people who can make a difference in the world.

As a deputy director at the U.S. Department of State, Pitman oversees its Speaker Program, which pairs international audiences with American experts. With a $4.2 million annual budget, the office sends about 700 professionals to speak on a broad range of subjects ranging from combating violent extremism to promoting economic initiatives to American embassies worldwide. 

An American professor with new research on climate change, for example, might be connected to the U.S. mission in South Africa to share ideas and solutions to local populations.

“We just cover so many topics,” Pitman said. “From combating disinformation to promoting women in STEM. It’s very exciting.”

Although Pitman, who grew up in Southside Richmond, enrolled at the University of Richmond, she had global visions. She studied Latin American and international studies, chose to live in a Spanish language-immersion residence hall, and was a Bonner Scholar.

“Richmond truly equipped me with the skills needed to succeed,” Pitman said. “I essentially mapped out where I was, and where I wanted to go.”

And even though the State Department is only about a three-hour drive from her hometown, the far-reaching agency has allowed her to connect with other cultures around the world — and bring about change.

“I haven’t moved very far from Richmond,” she said. “I consider myself local with a global mindset. I want to continue connecting with Americans who can speak to the world.”