School of Public Policy Ambassadors

The School of Public Policy ambassadors are current first- and second-year students who can share their insights and experiences with prospective students. We invite you to connect with them to learn more about what it is like to study policy at Pepperdine School of Public Policy and become a #FutureWavemaker!

Meet our Ambassadors! 

Mackenzie Winton

Hometown Truckee, CA Undergraduate College or University Principia College Undergraduate Degree BA: Political Science and History; Minor: Global Studies

What are your current policy areas of interest(s)?

Across my undergraduate education, engagement in diverse clubs and organizations, and prior work experiences, I have cemented my interest in international human rights and foreign policy. Within the realm of human rights, my particular focus centers on advancing women's equality and their active participation in governmental spheres. Additionally, I am concerned with formulating effective policy remedies to counteract human trafficking. Regarding foreign policy, I am captivated by the rich cultures and histories worldwide and the intricate interplay between nations. A central aspect of my policy interests lies in analyzing these distinct differences and shared attributes that collectively influence and mold foreign policy strategies.

What would you like to do with your MPP degree and/or what career goals do you have when you graduate with your MPP?

After obtaining my Master's degree at SPP, my aspirations encompass a career path in national security or human rights advocacy. My international politics interests gravitate toward intelligence analysis and foreign policy research. I am determined to use my diverse experiences to address a spectrum of human rights challenges, ranging from combating human trafficking to addressing instances of international human rights violations. My overarching career goal is to effect positive transformation in the lives of individuals who have confronted immense adversity.

Internship Experience

During the summer of 2023, I undertook an internship with the Policy Circle, an organization led by women, dedicated to educating and empowering women across the nation about pertinent policy matters. Throughout my internship, I undertook the responsibilities of curating, refining, and discovering research to contribute to the organization's policy briefs.

Fun Fact

Starting at five years old and continuing into college, I was a competitive snow skier, competing in both racing and freeride disciplines, which enabled me to travel across the country and world. If you are interested in skiing or snowboarding this winter, let me know!

Contact Information

mackenzie.winton@pepperdine.edu

Noah Jackson 

Hometown Kingsburg, California Undergraduate College or University Azusa Pacific University  Undergraduate Degree Political Science and Honors Humanities

What are your current policy areas of interest(s)?

I have a deep heart for community building and the policies that foster organic human interaction and interdependence. We live in an age of loneliness, and our policies need to be designed in a way that directly confronts this epidemic. From a physical standpoint, this looks like designing cities, towns, and public spaces that encourage natural interactions with neighbors. Think about your neighborhood coffeeshop, the local state park, or the town elementary school—these were all designed, zoned, or approved, through public policies. These “third spaces” are critical to organic human relationships within communities. Numerous other public policies foster healthy organic relationships, including policies that protect churches and non-profits, support and promote stable families, and foster community-based events. My career thus far has been primarily focused on natural resources and renewable energy, and so I would also like to integrate sustainability into community development.

What would you like to do with your MPP degree and/or what career goals do you have when you graduate with your MPP?

I want to design and build both physical and relational communities. I have a myriad of interests, so this dream could actualize itself through a number of different vocations. I could see myself as a city planner, as a developer in a commercial/residential development company, leading discipleship in a ministry organization, running operations for a church, consulting regarding building sustainable cities, speaking and writing on loneliness in society, or serving in the state or federal legislative branch. 

Internship Experience

I received internship credit by working as the Director of Strategic Operations and Government Affairs for Yosemite Clean Energy, an energy company that reduces the risk of wildfire in California while producing carbon-negative hydrogen for the transportation industry. 

Fun Fact

I grew up on an organic tree-fruit farm, and started my own apple and pear farm during high school :)

Contact Information

noah.jackson@pepperdine.edu

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