Kelly Tallman Clements arrived at Virginia Tech knowing she wanted to go into public service. After graduating with a double major in international studies and French in 1988, she went on to earn a master’s degree in urban affairs.

Clements entered public service through the prestigious Presidential Management Fellow program. After a 25-year career with the U.S. Department of State, she now serves as deputy high commissioner for the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, more commonly known as the UN Refugee Agency. She has held that post since 2015.

Clements recently participated in VT Stories, in which she discussed a career dedicated to refugee and forced displacement humanitarian issues. Visit VT Stories to hear her interview.