Oral Roberts University Alum Awarded Prestigious Pickering Fellowship

by Deborah Laker

ORU alumna Ruth Ann Philip is outstanding. Literally. She was recently awarded a 2019 Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Fellowship. Funded by the U.S. Department of State, this nationwide contest prepares outstanding young adults for Foreign Service careers. The Pickering Fellowship values attracting academics from varied backgrounds, races, ethnicities and social statuses.

Philip graduated summa cum laude from Oral Roberts University with a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations in May 2018. While completing her undergraduate at ORU, she worked as a marketing intern with a nonprofit law firm focused on religious freedom. As an Indian-American, Philip has always had an interest in U.S. relations with East Asian countries as well as the Middle East region.

Her former International Relations professor Dr. Ruby Libertus says she is extremely proud but not surprised by Philip’s accomplishment.

“She is an outstanding student. And I am glad that she's found her path, which is international relations and working in diplomacy,” said Dr. Libertus.

Being awarded the Thomas R. Pickering Fellowship is not just a prestigious achievement—the program will also support her through a two-year master’s degree related to U.S. foreign policy. Philip is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University in Massachusetts.

Additionally, the fellowship also provides extensive professional development and mentorship opportunities. During the summer of 2020, Philip will gain hands-on experience by working at a U.S. Department of State internship in Washington, D.C. before serving overseas the following year.

Upon graduation, Philip will become a Foreign Service Officer and dedicate her life to representing America around the world.