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Laura Deupree
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Andrew Young School of Policy Studies
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ATLANTA — Nicholas Mulkey (B.S. ’13) is making waves in Atlanta’s international affairs scene, using his education from the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies to shape the city’s global future.
When Mulkey arrived at Georgia State University from his hometown of Albany, Ga., he couldn’t have imagined how profoundly the experience would shape his future. With his degree in public policy and concentration in economic development and planning, Mulkey has since become an integral part of Atlanta’s growth story.
“Georgia State University helped me have an ‘aha’ moment,” Mulkey said. “It gave me the ability to analyze why things are the way they are and apply it to the real world.”
The vibrant urban life he encountered through school events like concerts and festivals left an indelible mark, influencing his perspective on urban development.
Mulkey, now serving as an ecosystem and experience architect in the Mayor’s Office of International and Immigrant Affairs, uses his skills to connect the dots in ways that make Atlanta more attractive to global talent and investment.
His career highlights include being a part of teams that have helped transform Atlanta, for example, by providing development funding for numerous housing projects and by setting up a commercial grant program that has influenced downtown Atlanta’s appearance. The Downtown Façade Improvement Grant, funded by the city’s Eastside Tax Allocation District, made it possible to upgrade murals located at the Glenn Hotel and STATS Brewpub, as well as the façade upgrade for the CNNA Architects building.
Mulkey's decision to join the AYS Alumni Council stems from a desire to give back to the institution that shaped him.
“I wanted to re-engage with Georgia State, which has given me so much,” he said. “There are so many opportunities and resources that exist by virtue of being connected.”
For Mulkey, being an Andrew Young School alumnus carries special significance.
“There are not a lot of institutions named after great Black leaders,” he said. “To work in this field and be directly related to a school established in honor of such a leader is something I’m extremely proud of.”
Drawing from his experiences, Mulkey advises current students to explore the world and engage early.
“Get out and explore, figure out how you want to contribute and help people, and do it as early as possible,” he said.
He emphasizes the importance of networking at events and securing internships.
“People notice passion and interests, and that makes them take notice of you,” he added.
Mulkey also encourages students to take full advantage of Georgia State’s resources, particularly the tech labs with free equipment and programs. In the dawn of the AI age, he sees these as invaluable tools for student success.
While his career trajectory serves as an inspiration to current students and recent graduates alike, his message to students is clear.
“Seek out and connect with your AYS professors and alumni, as we can help you get oriented and settled. There's a lot of opportunity here.”
Are you an alum of the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies? To connect with alumni like Nicholas Mulkey, learn more about how you can get involved with the AYS Alumni Council and stay updated on AYS news and opportunities, click here.
- By AYSPS Graduate Student Assistant Ayomidotun Olugbenle (M.A. in Political Science)