Student Spotlight: Willow Newcomb-Rudden
By Karina Antenucci
Willow Newcomb-Rudden, a second-year Master’s in Development Practice Laney Graduate School student, wants to clarify that studying development practice doesn’t mean working in finance or web development, as people often assume.
“I work in international development, which is an interdisciplinary study that falls at the intersection of economics, public policy, global health, and environmental science,” said Newcomb-Rudden, who is concentrating in sustainable environments and livelihoods.
Originally from Northwest Arkansas, Newcomb-Ruddenreceived her bachelor’s degree in political science and human services and social justice from The George Washington University. During her time in D.C., her perspectives were shaped by internship experiences at the United Nations Association of the National Capital Area, the International Organization for Migration, and both chambers of the U.S. Congress, as well as working in grassroots efforts accruing over 200 hours of service at local nonprofits.
“I am passionate about addressing climate change through a decolonial lens. Specifically, I am very interested in climate communication—how we communicate about climate-related issues in a way that is accessible to diverse global audiences,” she said.
Newcomb-Ruddenchose Emory University for her master’s education because of its unique decolonial approach to international development; interdisciplinary approach bringing together economics, environmental science, public health, and public policy; small, 10- to 15-student cohort sizes; and its emphasis on equipping students with practical skills, not just theoretical knowledge. For instance, two of the six semesters of the MDP program are devoted to practicums in the field. Additionally, Newcomb-Rudden was attracted to the program for offering diverse perspectives from around the globe.
“I value being in a learning environment where global voices are not only present but also front and center. Having such an international classroom allows for nuanced discussion about complex international issues,” said Newcomb-Rudden. “I have been absolutely blown away by the support and capacity of the MDP team. The program has delivered on its promise and more!”
In addition to serving as a teaching assistant for three of environmental sciences Associate Professor Jola Ajibade’s classes, Newcomb-Rudden is the Lab Coordinator for Ajibade’s Climate Resilience and Transformations Lab. There, her current research project focuses on how different groups of people understand sustainability. She also is currently helping the team at CARE International develop principles on locally led mitigation as a climate justice intern.
In November, Newcomb-Rudden will join Emory’s delegation at the COP29 Conference, a United Nation’s conference on climate change, in Baku, Azerbaijan as one of six selected members.
Upon graduation from the MDP program in May 2025, Newcomb-Rudden hopes to contribute to the field of climate communication by bridging the gap between climate science and the public. She is building a consulting business where she helps non-profits and international organizations develop communication strategies that fit their mission.
“I see myself as a translator of knowledge. I hope to make complex information about climate change more accessible to diverse global audiences,” she said.
Find out more about the Master’s in Development Practice program at Laney Graduate School here.