From Student to Special Envoy: Ambassador Hammer on Fletcher's Lasting Influence
This fall, the Fletcher School proudly welcomed back alumnus Mike Hammer F87, then the U.S. Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa. Ambassador Hammer, a career Senior Foreign Service member, was subsequently assigned as Chief of Mission in Havana, Cuba and began his new assignment in November. Previously, he has served in several prestigious roles, including U.S. Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (2018–2022) and Chile (2014–2016). His extensive experience also includes serving as Acting Senior Vice President at the National Defense University, Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs, and at the White House as Special Assistant to the President serving as National Security Council Senior Director for Press and Communications and Spokesperson.
His international posts span Bolivia, Norway, Iceland, and Denmark.
Ambassador Hammer’s career has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Navy’s Distinguished Public Service Award, the Edward R. Murrow Award for Excellence in Public Diplomacy, and the State Department’s Distinguished Honor Award.
In an interview with Fletcher, Ambassador Hammer shared how his time at the school shaped his distinguished diplomatic career.
As someone with a distinguished career in diplomacy, how did your Fletcher education prepare you for the complex global challenges you’ve faced?
Fletcher gave me a strong foundation for navigating a career in diplomacy. It provided a clear understanding of the global order, its norms, conventions, and established practices. I remember Professor Al Rubin challenging us to think about the limitations of international law, preparing us to see the world as it is, rather than as we might wish it to be. Professor Henrikson’s deep dive into U.S. diplomatic history has also been invaluable throughout my 30+ years of representing our country—after all, “those who don’t know history are destined to repeat it.”
Fletcher helped us understand that disruptors emerge in every era—whether that was the Soviet Union, terrorism, or climate change—and that these challenges demand international cooperation to address effectively. Fletcher sharpened my analytical thinking and equipped me with the tools needed for real-world diplomacy. Over the years, the curriculum has continued to evolve to prepare future generations of global problem-solvers.
But Fletcher is more than just an academic foundation. I went there to gain skills to make a difference in the world, and what I found was a community of people who shared that same drive. The connections formed at Fletcher tie us together as a close-knit, global network. Wherever I go, I make it a point to connect with Fletcher alumni—no matter where they are, they’re always eager to come together and collaborate. This network is also a resource for current students and new graduates looking to break into the field. My advice to today’s students: build connections with your classmates, because many of them will go on to make significant contributions to the international community.
You met your wife while studying at Fletcher, which speaks to the strong, lasting connections formed here. How has the Fletcher community supported you throughout your career and personal life?
Having a fellow Fletcherite, Margret Bjorgulfsdottir F88, by my side has been crucial to my achievements. We constantly discuss and analyze world events, and it’s invaluable to have someone who understands the complexities of the diplomatic landscape. Margret has supported me through challenging assignments, including in the Democratic Republic of Congo, while also keeping me grounded.
We’re also lucky to count three couples, all of whom met during their time at Fletcher, as some of our closest friends. We share common interests and a commitment to making a difference in the world. And in times of personal challenges, they’ve been there for us with unwavering support. My advice, hang on to the friendships you make at Fletcher.
Looking back at your own career journey, what would you tell students who are just starting out and may feel unsure of their path?
Dream big, stay persistent, and follow what genuinely excites you. There’s no single path to success and embracing the unpredictability of the journey is part of the process. When you’re passionate about your work, you're more likely to thrive and advance.
Pay attention to the details—doing small things well can help you stand out. Higher-ups notice those who bring a positive attitude and contribute to the team, even when tasks seem routine. These contributions can have a long-term impact.
For example, during my first tour in Copenhagen, one of my duties was coordinating motorcades for Secretary Baker—not exactly glamorous. But that experience opened doors to support visits by Presidents, and even the APEC Summit in Vancouver. At the summit, the National Security Council’s Executive Secretary, Glyn Davies, asked me to help arrange a restaurant reservation for President Clinton and his guests. Although it wasn’t what I envisioned doing with my degree, I took it on, and the evening went smoothly. A year later, I sent a fax (yes, a fax) to Davies asking about joining the NSC’s European Directorate. There were no positions in European Affairs, but he offered me a role as a spokesperson. Although I had no press experience, he must have seen potential, and with encouragement from Margret, I accepted. That unexpected role ended up propelling my career forward.
Finally, make choices that align with both your career goals and your personal life. I served in Denmark, Iceland, and Norway because these were places where my wife Margret, an Icelander, could also work. While some advised against these posts, believing they would limit my career trajectory, I ultimately served as an Assistant Secretary and a two-time Ambassador. When Margret set aside her diplomatic career to support mine, she asked that I "make it count." Thirty-five years later, as we prepare for my next role in Cuba, I think we did just that—together.