VALDOSTA — A former Valdosta State University student has been named to the official transition team for President-elect Donald Trump.

Ashley Bell, a 2001 VSU graduate who is now an attorney in north Georgia, will be a part of the “landing team” based inside the U.S. State Department, which handles the country’s international relations. He and several others will be in charge of appointing the nation’s foreign diplomats as Trump transitions to power.

“Our job will be to ensure a smooth transition of responsibility between the outgoing and incoming administration,” Bell said. “I’m honored to be chosen to serve and look forward to doing my part to assist in the honored and sacred American tradition of having a peaceful transition of power.”

Bell said his connections to the Republican National Committee — where he served as a senior strategist during Trump’s presidential campaign — and his extensive experience in dealing with Middle Eastern foreign policy landed him the job on the transition team.

Bell also said he’s already interacted with the new leader of America.

“I have spent time with President-elect Trump, (and) he is a very gracious and humble leader the American people will be proud of having as President,” Bell said.

While at VSU, Bell majored in political science and minored in African-American studies. He also served as president of the Student Government Association and was a founding member of the Iota Phi Theta fraternity.

After graduation, he attended law school at the University of Georgia and Louisiana State University. Bell said he enjoyed his time at VSU and still makes visits when possible.

“I still attend homecomings when I can and I’m extremely grateful for the friends and support I received from VSU staff — especially Ms. Debra Holly in the political science department and Dr. Hardin (retired) — during and after my time on campus,” Bell said.