Donn Weaver – an FSU alumnus (M.A. International Affairs ‘74) – leveraged his graduate education to launch a 46-year service as a Foreign Service Officer with the U.S. Government.
“As an Army infantry officer on the DMZ of Korea and two years as a basic training company commander, the stage was set, after FSU Grad School, for a 46‑year career in U.S. government and contract service,” Weaver said. “I traveled to 120 countries and learned five foreign languages, supporting our nation in the Cold War and the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT).”
Weaver is a veteran and dedicated public servant, inducted into the Florida Veterans Hall of Fame in 2023 by unanimous vote of the Florida Governor and Cabinet.
The Florida Veterans Hall of Fame, established by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs, honors military veterans who have dedicated their lives to service and made significant contributions to the state.
“Being inducted as a former Army captain with only four years of military service made it especially impactful,” Weaver said. “While my long U.S. government service contributed, I am proudest that the recognition from FDVA reflects 13 years of veteran advocacy and service in Brevard County.”
After four years of military service, Weaver was drawn to FSU’s new International Affairs program, using his veteran educational benefits to transition from the military to a career in global diplomacy.
“FSU in 1972 had one of the few International Affairs M.A. and Ph.D. programs under Dr. Richard B. Gray,” Weaver said. “Using the GI Bill, working two jobs, and being a teaching assistant with a young family was a challenge, but I can confirm I made the BEST choice.”
During his time at FSU, Weaver completed the College Teaching Certificate, allowing him to teach an undergraduate political science course from 1972 to 1974.
Weaver has remained connected to the FSU community by speaking during international affairs classes and events. When asked what advice he would give to current FSU students, Weaver said, “Own your passion and keep your dreams in sight, try to combine them with career and relationship choices.”
To learn more about FSU’s International Affairs Program, visit: cosspp.fsu.edu/internationalaffairs.