Sean Keefer, like many graduate students, struggled to decide whether to continue on to a doctoral program after receiving a Master of Arts in European Studies (then called Western European Studies) in 2004. Though he had always planned to pursue a Ph.D., he decided that education doesn’t end when you graduate. “I realized that I just really love to learn,” he says, “I didn’t need a title for that.” Graduation was just the beginning of a journey of lifelong learning.
Throughout his professional career, Keefer has navigated prominent roles in both the government and private sectors. Presently, he serves as Vice President of Government Affairs for the Fortune 200, multinational company Ecolab, overseeing emerging public policy issues across the U.S., Latin America, Asia, and Europe.
Despite his many successes, Keefer has stayed true to his ethos of lifelong learning, and his passion for history and politics culminated in the publication of his historical fiction novel, The Basque Decoy, in 2014.
This story follows Xavier Bentley, a journalist from Boston, as he travels to southern Spain to cover Holy Week. Bentley quickly finds himself entangled in the country’s volatile political climate following the death of dictator Francisco Franco. As Spain struggles between national and regional factions, the Basque separatist group ETA disrupts the transition, seeking revenge for years of repression. Against this backdrop, Bentley becomes a critical player in protecting the fragile constitutional democracy, forming alliances that will determine Spain’s future.
Keefer’s introduction to Spanish Basque country language and culture came when he overheard a college roommate speaking on the phone to family from the region. Being fluent in Spanish, Keefer was intrigued by the exotic speech and was immediately interested in learning more. A trip to Spain prior to his MA studies reinforced his interest in the country, and his graduate program work centered on studying economic change and political voting patterns in Spain. Keefer’s expertise extends beyond the U.S., having studied, taught, and worked in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and in Spain.
Beyond his literary accomplishments, Keefer has built an impressive career in government relations. Prior to his current role at Ecolab, he was Regional Director of Public Affairs for Pearson North America. He held several senior positions under Indiana Governors Mike Pence and Mitch Daniels, including Deputy Chief of Staff, Legislative Director, and Commissioner of Labor & OSHA. His extensive experience in policy and public affairs has earned him prestigious recognitions, including the Sagamore of the Wabash, Indiana’s highest civilian honor.
Keefer encourages current graduate students to gain practical experience alongside their coursework. “Try during your MA program to find a practical thing that will stick out on your resume,” Keefer says. This could be an internship or other hands-on experience that will make you stand out in the job market. Keefer also emphasizes having an open mind when it comes to your academic and career plans. “You don’t have to give up on your dreams, but it might take a different path than you expected. Don’t be discouraged if certain opportunities don’t seem to work out,” he says, “There are always alternative ways to apply your skills and interests. It’s not a failure.”
Sean Keefer’s story demonstrates how a European Studies MA can provide a foundation from which to pursue a meaningful career while continuing to learn about the topics and pursue projects that you are passionate about. “The most successful people aren’t the ones who never fail, he says, “but the ones who never stop learning.”
Sean invites current students or fellow alums to reach out as they look to break into the public policy and government relations world. Sean can be reached via email at smkeefer@gmail.com or through LinkedIn.
To learn more about The Basque Decoy, visit this link.