Jacob Brien
Twenty-First Century Group
ABOUT JACOB
Jacob "Jake" Brien graduated with summa cum laude honors from Texas A&M University in 2024, with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with double minors in Sociology and Psychology. He is currently pursuing a Master of International Affairs at the Bush School of Government and Public Service, focusing on national security, international development, and conducting research on the news framing of mass migrations. Through his professional experiences, Jake has developed strong skills in editing, writing, graphic design, and mixed methods research. As the graduate research assistant for the Scowcroft Institute of International Affairs, Jake has served as a liaison to former high-level guest speakers, edited Scowcroft publications, designed and managed a newsletter for over 5,500 recipients, and promoted public service through an audio archive podcast of foreign policy practitioners. Experiences outside of the classroom have taught Jake the importance of team building, communication, multiculturalism, and outreach. Jake launched Students for Interfaith, a multi-religion organization dedicated to bringing community and cooperation among Texas A&M’s diverse faith groups. He has been a member of the Ukrainian Club and volunteered since 2023. Jake is passionate about public service and hopes to learn more about the intricacies of policy analysis while in Washington, D.C., this summer, interning with the Twenty-First Century Group.
Ethan Brown
U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia
ABOUT ETHAN
Ethan Brown is an undergraduate student at Texas A&M University at Galveston, where he is pursuing a degree in oceans and one health. Originally from Houston, Texas, Ethan spent seven years living in Dubai, UAE, which significantly impacted his worldview. When he moved back to Texas in his senior year of high school, he set his sights on Texas A&M. At Texas A&M at Galveston, he has gained hands-on research experience in an FDA-certified seafood safety lab, analyzing shellfish and water samples for contamination. In addition, he works as a biology and chemistry tutor, helping students strengthen their academic performance in class. Beyond academics, Ethan serves as Treasurer of the Food Recovery Network, where he organizes fundraising events and food recovery missions. He also currently serves as a representative of his major in Student Government. Currently completing his EMT certification, Ethan hopes to go to medical school in the future. This summer, he is interning in Washington, D.C., within the United States Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia. Through his internship, he has been gaining practical experience, expanding his understanding of policy and research, and making a meaningful impact.
Benjamin Charley
Office of Congressman Henry Cuellar
ABOUT BENJAMIN
Benjamin "Ben" Charley, originally from The Woodlands, Texas, transferred from Lone Star College-Montgomery to Texas A&M University. He is currently a senior pursuing a degree in political science with a minor in homeland security and emergency management. As a first-generation Aggie, Ben is determined to give back to his community and nation by working in public service, both academically and professionally. On campus, Ben serves as a Resident Advisor at Aston Hall, supporting students in their everyday lives on campus. He also serves as the Vice President for Texas Aggie Democrats, where he actively works with Aggies in advocating for student issues towards local and state leaders at Texas A&M. Throughout Ben’s time as a student, he has focused his interests on the policy fields of Homeland Security, National Defense, and Veterans Affairs. Ben is already gaining valuable experience in Washington, D.C. through his internship within the Office of Congressman Henry Cuellar, where he is broadening his understanding of the legislative process and the impact of policy on his community. After graduation in spring 2026, Ben intends to use his experience to begin a career in legislative affairs or national security and emergency management.
Mattie DeKay
U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia
ABOUT MATTIE
Mattie DeKay, a first-generation college student and proud Aggie, is a senior at Texas A&M University studying political science at the Bush School of Government and Public Service, with a minor in philosophy. Hailing from Luling, Texas, she is an active member of Aggie Emeralds, the Texas A&M Pre-Law Society, Women in Public Service, and Aggies in Foreign Affairs. Mattie’s time at the Bush School has been the most instrumental part of her college career, shaping her perspective on governance and policy and leading her to discover her passion for being a public servant. As she prepares to graduate in August, Mattie is eager to continue serving others and make a meaningful impact. With her foundation in political science and philosophy, she plans to attend law school, where she hopes to further her expertise and advocate for policies that promote justice and equality. Mattie is interning with the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia this summer. She is looking forward to shaping her future and laying a foundation for a meaningful and rewarding legal career.
Ainsley Graham
The Fertilizer Institute
ABOUT AINSLEY
Ainsley Graham, a first-generation Aggie from Mansfield, Texas, is a recent graduate of Texas A&M University with a degree in microbiology from the College of Arts and Sciences. While pursuing her undergraduate degree, Ainsley was involved in many different extracurricular activities that helped strengthen her future aspirations. Her involvement in the women’s organization Aggie Blossoms and the Agronomy Society helped her form relationships with other students who supported her goals. Additionally, Ainsley worked as a 911 dispatcher for Texas A&M University’s Emergency Medical Services, where she answered emergency phone calls from the Bryan/College Station area. However, it was not until the fall semester of her sophomore year that she discovered her passion for agricultural sciences. Ainsley joined the Aggie Research Program and began working as a student researcher for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, more specifically the Weed Science Lab in the department of Soil and Crop Sciences. Since then, she has wanted to pursue a career in agricultural and environmental policy. Ainsley is interning with the Fertilizer Institute this summer and loves impacting agricultural policy on a national level. Once she leaves Washington, D.C., after participating in PPIP, Ainsley will be attending graduate school at the University of California, Davis, where she will be earning a master’s degree in plant pathology. She will be studying disease epidemics in different crop species so she can help farmers protect their harvest during the growing season.
Gunnar Griggs-Bell
Office of U.S. Senator John Cornyn
ABOUT GUNNAR
Gunnar Griggs-Bell is a graduate student at the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University, where he is pursuing a Master of Public Service and Administration, with an expected graduation in May 2026. A native of Gunter, Texas, a small rural agricultural community, Gunnar’s deep connection to agriculture was cultivated through his active involvement in 4-H and FFA, fueling his passion for agricultural advocacy. At Texas A&M, Gunnar takes on leadership roles to make a meaningful impact within the university. He is a member of Tradition’s Council, which preserves and promotes Texas A&M’s traditions, and serves as a Bush Board Fellow, gaining valuable public service experience. Additionally, he represents his peers as a Class of 2026 Representative and serves as a Committee Co-Chair within the Student Government Association. Gunnar’s commitment to public service and agricultural advocacy drives his pursuit of a career focused on policy and improving rural communities. Prior to joining Texas A&M, Gunnar earned a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Communications and Political Science from Texas Tech University. During his undergraduate years, he contributed to several organizations within the Davis College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, the Student Government Association, and the President’s Office. After graduating in May 2024, Gunnar moved to Washington, D.C., where he interned with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Public Lands Council. These internships introduced him to the Public Policy Internship Program and further fueled his passion for public service and policy work. This summer, Gunnar is interning with the Office of U.S. Senator John Cornyn, aiming to deepen his expertise in policy development while continuing his work in agriculture and natural resources.
Cameryn Jones
The Heritage Foundation
ABOUT CAMERYN
Cameryn Jones is a master’s student at Texas A&M University’s Bush School of Government and Public Service pursuing a degree in international affairs. She graduated summa cum laude in 2024 from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies and a minor in Religious Studies. Reflecting her interest in public service, Cameryn was involved in the Student Conference on National Affairs (SCONA), most recently serving as the Vice Chair of Communications. She also participated in the Undergraduate Research Scholars program, studying political instability abroad and a 10-week cultural immersion in Central Asia. Throughout her education, she has expressed her passion for service to others through her role as a Texas A&M Foundation Maroon Coat, Community Service Chair for her sorority, and volunteer for various homeless charities. After graduation in May 2026, she aspires to find a career that allows her to continue learning about the world while serving people. This summer, Cameryn is interning in Washington, D.C. with the Heritage Foundation, where she is excited to be impacting policy on a national level.
Parker Morris
U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia
ABOUT PARKER
Parker Morris, a recent graduate of Texas A&M University with an honors psychology degree from the College of Arts and Sciences, is a first-generation Aggie from Round Rock, Texas. During his time at A&M, Parker immersed himself in academic, professional, and leadership experiences that shaped his passion for law and advocacy. In addition to his undergraduate studies, Parker obtained a paralegal certificate from Boston University, further solidifying his legal foundation. His interest in the legal field was strengthened by his internships with The Law Office of Mark Maltsberger and the Brazos County District Attorney’s Office, where he gained firsthand experience with the criminal justice system. His work in these roles reinforced his passion for public service and his goal of becoming a District Attorney to drive meaningful change in his community. Parker has also consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to leadership and service. As Programs Officer for the Council of Arts, Social Sciences, and Humanities, he organized professional development workshops that provided valuable resources to Texas A&M students. Additionally, he served as a Campus Representative for the American Psychology-Law Society, where he played a key role in recruiting new members and fostering engagement within the field. Further showcasing his dedication to academic and professional growth, Parker was also an active member of the Pre-Law Society and the Psychology Club. Parker is preparing for law school after graduation, where he aims to continue his pursuit of justice and community service. With a passion for the legal profession and a deep commitment to serving his community, he looks forward to applying his skills and experiences to make a meaningful impact on those around him. This summer, Parker is interning in Washington, D.C., within the United States Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia.
Benjamin Prewitt
The National Down Syndrome Society
ABOUT BENJAMIN
Benjamin Prewitt, originally from Cypress, Texas, is a recent graduate from Texas A&M University’s Bush School of Government & Public Service, obtaining a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. Prior to his involvement with the Public Policy Internship Program, Prewitt served in leadership roles with both the Texas A&M Student Government Association (SGA) and Class Councils. As a member of SGA, Prewitt served to advocate on behalf of the student body as a general member of the Legislative Relations Commission, the Diversity & Inclusion Chair of the Student Senate, and the Chief of Advocacy for the Academic Affairs Department. In these roles, Prewitt often met with numerous student organizations, administrators, and congressional offices to discuss the concerns of the student body at Texas A&M and how those concerns could best be addressed. Meanwhile, in Class Councils, Prewitt served on the organization’s management board as the Chief of Communications, a role in which he oversaw the group’s social media platforms and helped to raise awareness for key class traditions such as FishFest, Legacy Night, and Ring Dance. Having been diagnosed with autism from an early age, Prewitt has long sought to mix his passion for advocacy and firsthand experiences with being on the autism spectrum to become an advocate for neurodivergent people. Ultimately, he hopes to become a lobbyist for a non-profit organization that raises awareness on neurodivergent issues, and to one day found an organization of his own that is dedicated to this cause. Benjamin is interning in Washington, D.C., this summer with the National Down Syndrome Society.
Chloe Ramirez
Office of Congresswoman Julie Johnson
ABOUT CHLOE
Chloe Ramirez, a senior from Abilene, Texas, is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Sociology alongside a minor in Latinx/Mexican Studies from Texas A&M University. She is a part of the inaugural cohort of the Texas Leadership Scholars at Texas A&M, in which she provides guidance and support as a peer mentor for freshmen. In her time at Texas A&M, Chloe has served in Student Government as the Diversity Commissioner in the executive branch, which focuses on advocating for representation for all Aggies throughout the University. She has also been involved in Aggie Minority Women in Law and Maggies, a women's organization focused on leadership. She also contributes to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America through fundraising and volunteering. She has worked as an undergraduate teaching assistant in the Sociology department for two years, serving as a resource to students by providing supplementary learning after classes, conflict resolution in group projects, and a listening ear for students. She is a resource for the professor, grading over 100 student essay submissions each week and providing student perspectives on lesson plans. In addition, she works as a Gallery intern at a local non-profit organization, The Arts Center of Brazos Valley. There, she assists with community outreach for 31 towns across seven counties, analyzes bylaws, and handles amendment requests. She recently completed an internship at the Brazos Interfaith Immigration Network as an outreach intern, where she collaborated with the Director on Community Outreach for immigrant populations, built relationships with partners, volunteers, and clients, and contributed to administrative tasks like data entry, filing, and report preparation. A deep passion for criminal justice reform and education advocacy has characterized her academic journey. Upon graduating in May 2026, Chloe plans to attend law school to earn her J.D. and pursue a career as an attorney, with aspirations of becoming a Federal Judge. Through her internship in Washington, D.C., with the Office of Congresswoman Julie Johnson, Chloe aims to deepen her understanding of the public policy process while gaining hands-on experience in the federal government.
Canon Russell
U.S. House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology
ABOUT CANON
Canon Russell graduated from Texas A&M University in May 2025 with a degree in economics. His passion for economics stems from his interest in market dynamics and optimal human decision-making under conditions of scarcity. Originally from a city near Chicago, Illinois, Canon traveled to the great state of Texas in search of a stellar education and a campus that seeks to mold its students into responsible and respected citizens. During his time at Texas A&M, Canon was a member of the Texas A&M Economics Society, a participant in intramural basketball, and an Undergraduate Research Assistant for the Department of Economics in the fall of 2024. In this role, he contributed to a research project studying the effect of political affiliation on price elasticity in the U.S. solar panel market. Building on his education in economics, Canon developed a strong interest in data analysis and research, focusing on organizational efficiency and process optimization. His proficiency in software such as Excel, Microsoft Power BI, and Tableau earned him a position as a Supply Chain Associate at McLane Inc., where he leveraged his experience handling large datasets to develop a tool for supervisors to measure employee performance quickly and meritocratically. Beyond his academic and professional pursuits, Canon is an avid reader who enjoys reading classic novels, with Fyodor Dostoevsky being his favorite author. He is fascinated by global geopolitics and economics, particularly in Southeast Asia. In his free time, he looks forward to visiting his family in Illinois during breaks. Canon is interning in Washington, D.C., this summer with the U.S. House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
Joanna Sanders
Office of the Inspector General, U.S. Department of Transportation
ABOUT JOANNA
Joanna Sanders is a second-year Master of Public Service and Administration student at the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University, with a concentration in Homeland Security and National Defense. A native of Austin, Texas, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from Texas A&M in May 2024. As part of her undergraduate studies, she spent a semester in Barcelona, Spain, where she focused on international business and deepened her proficiency in the Spanish language and culture. During her time at Texas A&M, Joanna held multiple leadership positions within MSC Freshman Leadership International, including serving as Vice Chair. In these roles, she led recruitment initiatives, facilitated strategic planning, and organized programs to foster student engagement and community impact. As a student leader in the Costa Rica Service-Learning Program, she helped coordinate community development initiatives, contributing to sustainable improvements abroad. Driven by a passion for public policy, homeland security, and national defense, Joanna is eager to apply her academic background and leadership experience in a professional setting. She is serving this summer with the U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General in Washington, D.C., where she works to contribute meaningfully to efforts that strengthen national resilience and accountability.
Kate Schwertner
Office of U.S. Senator Ted Cruz
ABOUT KATE
Kate Schwertner, a dedicated student at Texas A&M University, is from Lake Jackson, Texas. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management Pre-Law with a minor in American Politics and policy, expecting to graduate in May 2027. Passionate about law, public service, and leadership, she has actively engaged in professional experiences that have strengthened her legal knowledge and advocacy skills. Her interest in the legal field was solidified through her work as a Legal Office Assistant at The Law Office of Craig M. Greaves, where she transcribed and analyzed evidence for high-profile cases. She also gained hands-on courtroom experience as a Legal Apprentice at the Brazoria County Courthouse, 412th District Court, observing trials, analyzing judicial rulings, and assisting with jury selection processes. These experiences deepened her understanding of trial procedures and the judicial system, further inspiring her to pursue a career in law. Beyond her legal experience, Kate is a committed leader on campus. She currently serves as Vice President of Campus Relations for Zeta Tau Alpha, where she fosters relationships with Greek organizations and coordinates large-scale philanthropy and recruitment events. She played a key role in managing a $40,000 budget for recruitment, ensuring accurate financial planning and vendor coordination. Additionally, she is an active member of the Texas A&M Pre-Law Society, where she networks with legal professionals and explores law school opportunities. This summer, Kate is happy to be interning in Washington, D.C., with the Office of U.S. Senator Ted Cruz. She is excited to be applying her previous knowledge of legislation and policy on a national scale. Following graduation, she plans to attend law school, focusing on criminal defense and ultimately pursuing public office to advocate for national security, justice reform, and constitutional rights.
Zachary Spanhak
Office of Congressman Henry Cuellar
ABOUT ZACHARY
Zachary “Zach” Spanhak is a current senior history and political science double major at Texas A&M University. He is also pursuing a minor in secondary education through the AggieTEACH program, which will allow him to graduate with social studies teaching certification. This summer, he is interning with the Office of Congressman Henry Cuellar, helping to serve the constituents of Texas’s 28th congressional district. Originally from Georgetown, Texas, Zach has sought growth in his leadership and public service skills throughout his time in College Station. Throughout his junior year, Zach served as a director for Freshmen Leaders in ArtSci Reaching Excellence (FLARE), in which he helped oversee the academic, professional, and social development of his freshmen members, staff, and mentors. He also served as the vice-president of Texas Aggie Democrats, where he helped facilitate voter registration, brought candidates and public officials to campus, and helped keep the Aggie community informed and engaged with politics. Zach can also be found working in residence hall tours at the Department of Residence Life, where he helps make A&M feel like home to prospective students and families. He is also a member of the AggieTEACH ArtSci student organization, which has aided him in developing his skills as a future educator. Zach was drawn to the Public Policy Internship Program in order to attain first-hand experience with government, which he can then use to educate his future students and community on topics that often feel abstract. He views this opportunity as another step closer to his goal of being the best teacher he can be.
Janice Thomas
Texas A&M University System Office of Federal Relations
ABOUT JANICE
Janice Thomas is a junior from League City, Texas, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a minor in Legal Foundations at Texas A&M University. Having spent her early years in India, she is trilingual in English, Hindi, and Malayalam. At Texas A&M, Janice has taken on key leadership roles within the Student Engineers’ Council (SEC), where she currently serves as the Alumni Relations Coordinator, engaging with over 200 alumni and organizing panel discussions to connect students with industry professionals. Previously, she led marketing efforts for the nation’s largest student-run career fair as a Career Fair Coordinator. Within Engineering Honors, she has served as the Social Chair for the Executive Committee and as an Engineering Honors Ambassador, assisting prospective students and their families during campus visits. Recognized for her academic excellence, she has been named to the Dean’s Honor Roll multiple times in the College of Engineering. As a first-generation Aggie, Janice has found a strong sense of community at Texas A&M and is committed to paying it forward. She serves as a peer mentor for the First-Year Experience class, guiding the class of 2025 freshmen through their transition to college. Additionally, she is passionate about community service, having organized STEM outreach events, food drives, and enrichment tutoring for underserved students through SEC and Engineering Honors in partnership with organizations like the REACH project, The 12th Can, and Meals on Wheels. Driven by a deep interest in the intersection of technology and policy, Janice aspires to leverage her technical background to drive meaningful societal change. This summer, Janice is interning in Washington, D.C., with the Texas A&M University System Office of Federal Relations. She is using her technical expertise, leadership experience, and passion for public service to impact policy on a national scale.