Golf brought her to America, but a passion for shaping public policy has kept her here
When Ellen Chambers arrived at Lynn University in the spring of 2010, nearly 10,000 miles separated her from her home in Petrie, Australia.
Ellen Chambers
Lynn University
Golf
Division II
Sunshine State Conference
Academics
GPA: 4.00
Major: International relations
Academic All-America honors
2014 Elite 89 Award winner, DII women’s golf
Dean’s list, every semester
Lynn University Scholar-Athlete of the Year
2014 Sunshine Conference Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year
Athletics
Two-time NCAA team national champion
Two-time Women’s Golf Coaches Association All-America honors
2014 NCAA DII South/Southeast Super Regional individual medalist (first in school history)
Most rounds played in a season at Lynn University (tied for first)
Second-lowest 54-hole score at Lynn University
Community Service
Organizations served: Organizing for America, Students for the Poor, Make-A-Wish, Boca Helping Hands, among others
Leadership
Four years on campus SAAC
“It was very overwhelming at first,” Chambers said. “But Lynn seemed like the perfect fit academically and athletically.”
Far away from family and familiarity, Chambers, a member of Lynn’s women’s golf team, threw herself into her academic and athletic pursuits at the school. She had dreamt of working for the Foreign Service in Australia and always had a passion for political science. Soon enough, she found herself majoring in international relations with a minor in American studies while playing on a team that would go on to capture two national championships.
In 2012, Lynn University was chosen to host the final presidential debate – an exciting event for an international student with a passion for civic engagement. Chambers jumped at the chance to be an usher for the event, which allowed her to watch it unfold in person.
As Chambers began to amass professional development experiences like those, she realized the importance of role models and advisors. She turned her gratitude into action, forming Lynn’s Leading Ladies alongside a team of classmates. The group mentored local girls, providing networking opportunities with local leaders as well as professional advice.
“I will continue throughout my life as someone who believes in giving back,” Chambers said. “I’m motivated by the opportunities that have come my way as a scholar, athlete and leader in the community.”
After graduation, Chambers moved north to Washington, D.C. where she is pursuing a master’s degree in international peace and conflict resolution at American University. She now works for the Public International Law & Policy Group while also performing research as a graduate assistant to a professor.
Much like her time at Lynn, Chambers feels like American is the right place for her – even 10,000 miles from home – because “I’m surrounded by others with similar passions.”