Finding purpose through global security and intelligence

By Xiomara Hoover

Editor’s note: Xiomara Hoover is a global security and intelligence studies student at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Arizona. She expects to graduate this year and plans to pursue a career in security and intelligence. Her coursework includes intelligence writing, forensic accounting and fraud examination, geographic information systems and investigative interviewing. Hoover is Diné and wants to focus on investigating crimes that affect the Navajo Nation. She is seeking entry-level or internship opportunities in security or intelligence.

When I look back at the path that led me to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s College of Business, Security, and Intelligence, I remember a story created by my curiosity, culture, and identity. As I grew older, understanding where I came from became a foundation to my journey into global security and intelligence studies. It began in an unexpected way—through a high school classroom visit from a college recruiter who spoke about the school in a very inspirational way.

To read the full article, please see the Feb. 12, 2026, edition of the Navajo Times.

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