A life of service: Alumna turns Transy education into a diplomatic career
by Julie Martinez
Mariju Bofill, a Transylvania University alumna from the Class of 1999, has forged a remarkable career with the U.S. Department of State, spanning over two decades. Currently, she holds the title of coordinator for logistics and platforms in the Office of the Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts. However, her journey into diplomacy was not straightforward. Initially, she set out with aspirations of a legal career, but unexpected experiences, including the Sept. 11 terrorist attack, ultimately led her to a life of international service.
Bofill arrived at Transylvania with plans to pursue pre-law, majoring in political science and minoring in history. The rigorous academic environment and close-knit community at Transylvania provided her with a strong foundation. She recalls the profound impact of her international politics course with professor Jeff Fryman, which introduced her to systems of government, democracies, dictatorships and authoritarianism. These concepts would later become integral to her work as a diplomat.
Bofill remarked that she knew at the time that the academic rigor of the program would prepare her for a professional career. Her experience at Transy “provided me the academic foundation to continue at a higher educational level.”
During her time at Transylvania, Bofill participated in the university’s inaugural semester abroad program at Regent’s College in London. This experience, she reflects, was transformative. While backpacking through Europe, she immersed herself in different cultures, ultimately igniting her passion for living and working overseas. The program coincided with a dynamic period in the U.K., with Tony Blair as prime minister and significant geopolitical changes occurring post Cold War. This exposure to international politics and cultural exchange profoundly influenced Bofill’s career trajectory.
It was an important time to be an American and to see how our country was playing such a pivotal role in these historic events in Europe and around the world.
Upon completing her undergraduate studies, Bofill pursued a law degree at American University’s Washington College of Law, focusing on international human rights and civil rights issues. During her final year of law school, she was selected for the Presidential Management Fellowship program at the State Department. Bofill joined the State Department, a decision that coincided with a defining moment in American history — Sept. 11, 2001.
The terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, which occurred on her second day at work, solidified Bofill’s commitment to public service. Witnessing the events firsthand from her proximity to the Pentagon, she resolved to dedicate her career to serving her country. Over the next 22 years, Bofill’s assignments would take her across the globe, including postings in Chile, Ecuador, Mexico, France, Greece and Brazil. In Washington, she held various positions, from the White House to the Department of Defense at the Combatant Command in Miami.
I’m still getting the chance to go to new countries, meet new people and hear languages I’ve never heard before.
Bofill attributes much of her success to the education and experiences she gained at Transylvania. The small classroom settings and personalized attention from professors fostered a deep sense of academic rigor and critical thinking. These skills proved invaluable in her diplomatic career, where analyzing complex situations and understanding diverse perspectives are essential.
Bofill’s career in diplomatic service has been both challenging and rewarding. The thrill of visiting new countries and continually learning about new cultures and languages are highlights of her 23-year career. Her love for learning, she believes, was instilled in her from the very first day at Transylvania and continues to drive her passion for her work.
Throughout her career, Bofill has remained connected to her alma mater, valuing the lifelong friendships she formed during her college years. These relationships have been a source of support and joy, even as she navigated the demanding and often isolating nature of diplomatic service. The camaraderie among Transylvania alumni, along with the university’s commitment to fostering critical thinking and global awareness, has had a lasting impact on her professional and personal life.
Bofill’s journey has been marked by significant milestones, including serving at the White House under two administrations. As the acting senior director for Western Hemisphere affairs and the deputy senior director for Western Hemisphere affairs, she played a crucial role in shaping U.S. foreign policy. One notable achievement was her involvement in preparing President Biden for his first bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Trudeau of Canada, contributing to the development of the roadmap for renewed relations between the United States and Canada.
In recognition of her contributions, Bofill was honored with the prestigious title of Kentucky Colonel, an accolade she cherishes. Her work has not only strengthened international relations but also underscored the values of generosity, kindness and critical thinking that she believes are inherent to the American spirit.
Bofill’s career showcases the transformative power of education and the profound impact of global engagement. Her journey from Transylvania University to the global stage exemplifies how a foundation in liberal arts education can prepare individuals for a life of service and leadership in an interconnected world. As she continues her diplomatic career, Bofill remains committed to learning, growth and making a positive impact on the world.
It is so important that I have a liberal arts education because it has allowed me to think critically in a way that I don’t know that I would have otherwise.
