William D. Clarke, Sr. was the first Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) Special Agent to become a U.S. ambassador. He joined DSS in 1967 and served all over the world, including in Japan, France, Germany, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, and Panama. After 30 years with DSS, Mr. Clarke became the U.S. Ambassador to Eritrea, where he served for three years. Ambassador Clarke retired from the Foreign Service in 2001.
The William D. Clarke, Sr. Diplomatic Security Fellowship, named in his honor, encourages future generations of Diplomatic Security Service Special Agents to aspire to greatness in public service to our nation and in the leadership of the United States Foreign Service.
The William D. Clarke, Sr. Diplomatic Security (Clarke DS) Fellowship is a path to an exciting and fulfilling career in the Foreign Service as a Diplomatic Security Service Special Agent. The program is a two-year graduate fellowship designed for individuals who want to pursue a master’s degree and a career as a Diplomatic Security Service Special Agent in the Foreign Service.
As one of several high-profile State Department recruitment programs, the Clarke DS Fellowship aims to attract qualified candidates to the Diplomatic Security Service who represent ethnic, racial, gender, social, and geographic diversity of the United States.
The fellowship provides academic funding, two summer practicums with stipend support, personalized mentoring, and professional development opportunities. Upon successful completion of the fellowship program and the Foreign Service entry requirements, Fellows receive an appointment as a Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) Special Agent in the Foreign Service.
The program includes:
- Financial assistance for a two-year graduate program
- Two summer practicums – one domestic and one abroad
- Mentoring and other professional development opportunities
- Three-year Foreign Service Commitment
If you are interested in pursuing a master’s degree and an exciting career at the forefront of law enforcement and international affairs, this is an opportunity of a lifetime to serve your country and make a real difference. Visit clarkedsfellowship.org to learn more about the program.
The William D. Clarke, Sr. Diplomatic Security Fellowship is closed for recruitment 2025 cohort. To prepare for the 2026 cohort application season, please Join our Talent Network and sign up for notifications on security and law enforcement careers (Special Agent positions) as well as internships and fellowships (William D. Clarke Fellowship). Prepare to apply by watching recorded information sessions on the Clarke DS Fellowship, practicing for the Physical Readiness Test and building experiences in the Foreign Service Dimensions.
For additional fellowship information and resources please visit https://clarkedsfellowship.org/. We look forward to connecting at DSScareers@state.gov to answer your questions on Special Agent careers