Senate cybersecurity specialist majored in politics at Messiah

We use phones, tablets and computers every day, but how secure are they? For Evan Jewell ’14, the senior information security services specialist for the cybersecurity branch of the U.S. Senate, knowing that is all in a day’s work.

At his job, Jewell uses a variety of systems and tools to defend and protect the Senate’s network, mobile devices and computer systems from unauthorized access.

Jewell, who majored in politics, says Messiah provided the political science foundation needed for his work at the Senate. “Messiah’s emphasis on communication skills taught me to convey tasks and their outcomes succinctly, both verbally and in writing,” he said. “Also, the interpersonal relation skills I acquired are necessary for the teamwork required in the cybersecurity field.”

Prior to working for the Senate, Jewell held many other positions in the U.S. government. He interned for the Secretary of the Senate and the Department of Homeland Security Customs and Immigration. He also worked as a government contractor for the Department of Homeland Security. 

Working in Washington, D.C. has its perks and its challenges. Jewell says his commute, depending on traffic, lasts 30 minutes to an hour or more. “Even on the longest days, I feel privileged to be a contributor to the workings of the U.S. Senate as I enter the Capitol with respect and pride in being an American,” he said.

—Jake Miaczynski ’20

Read more about the Cybersecurity major at Messiah University