Newmark Scholars represent the U.S. Army, Navy and Air Force

Ryan Johnson (MPP/MBA’27)

Johnson hopes to apply the same community-oriented environment he found in the military as he transitions from an operational focus in the Army to a data-driven study of public policy. In the Army, Johnson served as an advising team leader in Ghana and Benin, where he worked at the cutting edge of U.S. security policy in West Africa and led the first conventional advising team to Benin. He has a B.S. in economics from Northeastern University and recently interned with the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security.

Gabriel McKern (MPP/MSFS’27)

McKern seeks to pair his experience as an officer and later platoon leader in Afghanistan with courses on how successful counter-terrorism, irregular warfare and resistance movements are fought. His broader interest is exploring how military campaigns can merge more effectively with political goals. McKern has a B.S. in molecular biology from Eastern Oregon University and will pursue dual master’s degrees in public policy and foreign service at Georgetown.

Maryellen Myers (MPP’26)

Myers’ formative years as the daughter of a retired Army officer shaped her understanding of resilience, adaptability and the importance of diverse perspectives. Time spent living in The Netherlands fueled her passion for public service and a desire to create effective policy solutions. With a background in marketing and teaching, Myers aims to enhance her qualitative research and data-driven analysis skills. She is excited to contribute to and learn from the dynamic McCourt community, building on her unique experiences to make a meaningful impact. She has a B.A. in journalism from Auburn University.

Matt Sandusky (MPP’26)

Sandusky is driven by a vision of the United States that is energy independent and a global leader in technology and diplomacy. Inspired by his grandfather, a Vietnam War veteran, and his cousin, a current sailor in the Navy, Sandusky’s passion for public policy is also rooted in the care and well-being of service members and an interest in technological innovation. He deeply respects military service, both in his own family and others, and seeks to honor this sacrifice through his McCourt education. Sandusky holds a B.A. in creative writing and political science from the University of Arkansas. 

Wyae’ Stewart (MPP’26)

Stewart draws inspiration from her grandfather’s leadership as president of his chapter of the NAACP and his military service in the Air Force and Navy. His dedication to community advocacy and housing reform deeply shaped her commitment to public service. As a graduate student at McCourt, Stewart hopes to join the Policy Innovation Lab and work on housing policy in DC Wards 7 and 8. Drawing on her own experiences, she aims to craft policies that drive change and improve conditions for underserved and underrepresented communities, continuing her grandfather’s legacy. Stewart graduated from Oberlin College with a B.A. in politics and law & society.