Fall 2024 Archer Fellows
Giana Abraham |
The University of Texas at Dallas Alliance for Health Policy Giana Abraham is a junior McDermott Scholar at The University of Texas at Dallas double majoring in neuroscience and psychology with a minor in political science. On campus, Abraham has served as the communications chair of the Student Government and is a member of the Collegium V Honors Council. Abraham also works as an emergency medical technician and researches drug addiction in the Cellular and Synaptic Physiology Lab under Dr. Sven Kroener. Her hobbies include crocheting, skateboarding, and travel. After graduation, Abraham plans to pursue a joint medical and doctoral degree and advocate for enhanced healthcare policies focused on women's health and underserved populations. 
Tariq Ahmed | The University of Texas at Austin
Federal Internship Tariq Ahmed is a junior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in international relations and global studies with minors in Arabic, government, and business and public policy. His interests include foreign and Middle Eastern affairs, international security and law, and public policy. From fall 2022 to winter 2023, Ahmed served as a legislative intern in the Office of State Senator César J. Blanco (SD-29) and as a legislative aide in the Office of State Representative Barbara Gervin-Hawkins (HD-120). On campus, he has been involved in the International Relations and Global Studies Council, UT Student Government, and AIESEC. After graduation, Ahmed plans to attend law school or graduate school to pursue a career in diplomacy. 
Ricardo Ayala | The University of Texas at San Antonio
Institute of World Politics Ricardo Ayala is a senior at The University of Texas at San Antonio majoring in cybersecurity with a minor in political science. On campus, he is an active member of the UT San Antonio Honors College and has held leadership roles as president of Ballet Folklórico de UTSA and Jolt Action. Additionally, he participated in the UTSA Bold Careers Program and has served as a resident assistant for the last two years. Ayala recently gained professional experience through an internship as a security operations center analyst at UTSA. Off campus, he demonstrated his commitment to community service as a volunteer at the Center for Refugee Services, where he assisted refugee cases with employment opportunities and addressed their basic needs. Ayala also served as the program director for the National Student Leadership Conference in Baltimore, Maryland, where he led a nationwide cybersecurity program for high school students. Post-graduation, Ayala aims to contribute to a nonprofit organization that bridges the cybersecurity knowledge and technology gap in underrepresented communities. 
Kaitlynn Brackens | The University of Texas at San Antonio
Research!America Kaitlynn Brackens is a junior at The University of Texas at San Antonio majoring in biology with a minor in civic engagement. Brackens is also a certified primary care technician and a clinical medical assistant. On campus, she served as an academic and career team leader of Students of Valor, a UT San Antonio student organization. She has extensive volunteer experience in her community, including at the University Health Hospital in San Antonio, Texas. After graduation, Brackens plans to enroll in a master’s program to become a physician assistant. Her ultimate goal is to advocate for and support underrepresented women in the healthcare system. 
Alexa Carranco | The University of Texas at El Paso
Federal Internship Alexa Carranco is a junior at The University of Texas at El Paso majoring in Chicano studies with a minor in legal reasoning. Through her work as a deputy field organizer, vice president, president, and, most recently, the El Paso advocacy field organizer at Texas Rising, she has been part of policy reform efforts to combat anti-immigrant state policies. In partnership with immigration advocacy groups, Carranco organized S.B. 4 Know Your Rights training for migrant shelter managers, volunteers, and community members. She also testified against anti-immigrant bills during the 2023 Texas State Legislature. Additionally, she interned for her local U.S. Congresswoman, the County Commissioners Court, and the Texas 34th District Court. On campus, Carranco served as the Student Government Supreme Court chief justice, a member of the SGA welfare committee, a secretary for the Chicano Pre-Law Society, and a research assistant for political science. After graduation, Carranco is determined to serve her community as a civil rights attorney, focusing on borderland issues. Her ultimate goal is to champion the civil rights of immigrant community members, serving the transnational community of El Paso and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. 
Thomas Carroll | The University of Texas at San Antonio
Foundation for the Defense of Democracies Thomas Carroll is a senior at The University of Texas at San Antonio majoring in cybersecurity. On campus, he worked as a research assistant for the UTSA Data Analytics Center, focusing on trends in IoT device vulnerabilities. He also served as the public relations officer for the Computer Security Association and as the public relations team lead for the RowdyCon Planning Committee, where he worked to secure funding and increase community engagement in UTSA’s cybersecurity community. Furthermore, he interned as a cybersecurity analyst at the Texas Department of Information Resources, where he created tabletop exercises and advocated for legislation to enhance the security posture of Texas. Carroll plans to pursue a master’s degree in public administration or law and hopes to create national policies to protect individuals’ data privacy. 
Adarryl T. Chaney Jr. | The University of Texas at Dallas
Office of U.S. Representative Beth Van Duyne (TX-24) Adarryl T. Chaney Jr. is a junior at The University of Texas at Dallas majoring in political science with a minor in criminology and a passion for helping those in need. On campus, he is a member of the John Marshall Pre-Law Society. Off campus, he hosted several community service events to feed the homeless. Chaney is an Armed Forces veteran and spent ten years in the U.S. Navy, during which time he held multiple leadership positions. Upon graduation, Chaney plans to attend law school to pursue a career as an attorney, where he hopes to open his own law firm to provide affordable legal assistance. 
Luke Christensen | The University of Texas Permian Basin
National Alliance on Mental Illness / Insight Meditation Community of Washington Luke Christensen is a senior at The University of Texas Permian Basin majoring in psychology with a minor in music. On campus, he has served as the president of the Psychology Club and the Psi Chi National Honor Society chapter, a clinical psychology fellow, an experimental research assistant, a supplemental instructor in statistics, a writing fellow, a student mentor, and a general tutor. His research on mindfulness, spirituality, religiosity, and academic help-seeking has been presented at numerous national and international conferences. Off campus, he volunteers for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, giving talks and serving as deputy walk chair for the Permian Basin Out of the Darkness Walk. Luke has been an AmeriCorps member, a behavioral technician, and a case manager at an addiction treatment facility. After graduation, he aims to attend graduate school for clinical psychology. 
Michael De La Garza | The University of Texas at Austin
The John W. Kluge Center at the Library of Congress Michael De La Garza is a junior at The University of Texas at Austin pursuing a dual degree in finance and economics with a minor in government. A first-generation college student, De La Garza is interested in the intersection of law, business, and real estate. On campus, he was appointed to the Student Conduct Board, where he served as a panelist and on the executive board as the secretary to help uphold the university’s academic and personal integrity standards. Off campus, De La Garza has built an early career as a real estate agent, primarily working as an apartment locator for students. His role involves assisting students in finding suitable housing, negotiating leases, and providing comprehensive support throughout the rental process. In the summer of 2025, he will intern with JPMorgan Chase & Co., a global financial services company. After graduation, De La Garza plans to continue his work in financial services, specializing in the real estate sector, and later apply for J.D./M.B.A. programs. 
Samyukta Dinesh | The University of Texas at Austin
U.S. Department of Education - Office of the Deputy Secretary Samyukta Dinesh is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in public relations with a minor in social justice informatics. On campus, she worked as a data analyst for the Moody Career Center, was a 2024 Moody Media Scholar for Social Change, and served as a sustainability consultant as part of the Longhorn Impact Fellowship at Texas. Off campus, Dinesh interned at the City of Austin’s Community Technology & Telecommunications Commission and Texas Instruments as an ESG communications intern. Dinesh is passionate about leveraging her education in sustainability to drive positive change and believes in the power of effective communication to inspire responsible business practices and social impact. 
Daniel A. Gallegos Banda | The University of Texas at Dallas
Legal Aid / Embassy of Mexico Daniel A. Gallegos Banda is a senior at The University of Texas at Dallas majoring in political science with a certificate in criminal justice from Dallas College. Banda is a first-generation Mexican immigrant passionate about immigrant advocacy and policy reform. Off campus, Banda has worked at Dammanna Law, an immigration firm, Fuerza’s Strategies, a political consulting firm, and interned for a successful congressional campaign. On campus, Banda has been committed to supporting fellow students in navigating the challenges of higher education by working in the Transfer Mentor Program and the International Students and Scholars Office. He also served as the vice president of the League of United Latin American Citizens, where he received the esteemed title of “Man Of The Year” for North Texas. Banda has also trained in prisoner advocacy through his work in the Innocence Project of Texas Seminar. Post-graduation, Banda plans to become an attorney and continue working with LULAC and the American Business Immigration Coalition to champion civil rights. 
Alex Garcia Pecina | The University of Texas at San Antonio
DC Witness Alex Garcia Pecina is a senior at The University of Texas at San Antonio majoring in psychology with a certificate in legal studies. On campus, he served as the president of the Legal Advocacy Association, where he further developed the mock trial and moot court programs. As a senator in the Student Government Association, he assisted in developing school-wide initiatives. Off campus, Pecina worked as a law clerk at Guerra LLP and as a general administrative clerk for the Internal Revenue Service under the Department of the Treasury. In his free time, he has volunteered for political campaigns for Texas candidates, including Jessica Cisneros and Rochelle Garza. After graduation, he plans to attend law school and pursue a career in labor and unemployment law. 
Pranavi Garlapati | The University of Texas at Austin
Williams & Jensen LLC Pranavi Garlapati is a junior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in biochemistry with a certificate in social inequality and health policy. On campus, she was a board member of the Disability Advocacy Council and actively contributed as the activity head for Best Buddies. Garlapati furthered her research experience in neuroscience under Dr. Goldschen-Ohm and contributed to the Refugee Housing Project through the Innovations for Peace and Development Lab. Off campus, she has enriched her community by working as a nutrition program assistant at People’s Community Clinic and volunteering in speech therapy for stroke survivors. Passionate about addressing the social determinants of health, Garlapati spent her previous summer as a patient advocate in the emergency room at NYU Langone Hospital, focused on improving health outcomes for minority groups. After graduation, she intends to pursue medical school and advocate for effective healthcare policy. 
Norma Gay | The University of Texas at Austin
Office of U.S. Representative Veronica Escobar (TX-16) Norma Gay is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin, triple majoring in social work, sociology, and urban studies with a certificate in public policy. Her dedication to addressing societal inequality has been strengthened through her service at the UT Outpost, a food pantry and career closet for UT students, and her work as a research assistant at the Texas Institute for Child and Family Wellbeing. As a Ronald E. McNair Scholar, she recently attended the 2024 UCLA National McNair Conference, where she presented her upcoming publication, "Transitioning from Safety Nets to Economic Empowerment: Redefining Social Welfare Through Social Investment Policies.” After graduation, Gay aspires to become a social work professor, focusing on advancing social welfare research and advocacy. 
Helen Getachew | The University of Texas at Austin
Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP Helen Getachew is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in business honors and government with minors in finance and Spanish. On campus, Getachew served as student body president, representing over 50,000 students and working on accessibility and inclusion initiatives. Getachew also gained valuable experience in the intersection of business and social impact through roles in multiple sectors. As a summer analyst at Vista Equity Partners, she worked on research and business strategies for companies focused on social impact. As a fellow for Project Proximate, Getachew consulted a Boston-based nonprofit organization to address critical issues hindering audience-provider alignment. Additionally, as a legislative aide in the Office of Texas State Representative Shawn Thierry (HD-146), she assisted with legislative research and drafting. After graduation, Getachew plans to further her interest in integrating business, policy, and social impact by working with a nonprofit and pursuing a career in law. 
Jacob Groninga | The University of Texas at Tyler
Heritage Foundation Young Leaders Program Jacob Groninga is a senior honors student at The University of Texas at Tyler majoring in political science with a minor in international relations. As a UT Tyler Model United Nations team member, he attended the National Model UN conferences in New York and Erfurt, Germany, in 2023, where the UT Tyler Delegation won the Distinguished Delegation and Honorable Mention awards, respectively. In 2024, he served as one of two head delegates for the 2024 NMUN conference in New York, where the team again won the Distinguished Delegation award. In October 2023, Groninga represented UT Tyler as an attendee at The Ivanov School for Young Leaders in Ohrid, North Macedonia. In other on-campus activities, he has been an active member of the ministry team for the Reformed University Fellowship, a member of the Honors College Logos student group, and a UT Tyler Esports shoutcaster. After graduation, Groninga intends to work in the public policy sphere. 
Krishna Hariprasad | The University of Texas at Austin
Office of U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (TX-37) Krishna Hariprasad is a junior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in biology with a minor in government. On campus, Hariprasad served as vice president of the Student Health Advisory Committee, where he designed sexual education modules for integration into UT Austin’s Canvas system. He is a member of Emergency Contraception for Every Campus, a group dedicated to ensuring access to sexual health supplies at UT. He participated in the U.S.-U.K. Fulbright Summer Institute at Queen’s University Belfast, where he studied Northern Ireland and conflict resolution. After graduation, Hariprasad aspires to pursue a medical career, aiming to integrate his passion for reproductive justice with policy initiatives. 
Ariana Harpavat | The University of Texas at Austin
U.S. Department of Education - Office of Legislative and Congressional Affairs Ariana Harpavat is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin, double majoring in economics and government and pursuing a Distinguished College Scholar certification through the Liberal Arts Honors Program. She has conducted research for Innovations for Peace and Development and volunteered with Project Advance Austin. She has also held positions as a student facilitator for Texas Leadership Education and Development and as an admissions reader for her college’s honors program. Off campus, she interned for Texas State Senator Royce West (SD-23) during the 88th Legislative Session and as an audit intern for The University of Texas System. Harpavat is committed to making a difference in the education system and plans to attend law school or work in political advocacy. 
Ana Hebbard | The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Woodberry Associates Ana Hebbard is a junior at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley majoring in English with a minor in legal studies and on the pre-law track. On campus, Hebbard served as vice president of the Alpha Lambda Delta Honors Society and attorney for the Mock Trial Competition team. Hebbard was also a member of the Pre-Law Society, Political Science Association, and Model UN. Her volunteer work at a local immigrant respite center motivated her to pursue immigration and border crisis issues. Hebbard served as a Congressional Youth Advisory Council member under U.S. Representative Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) and participated in the Law School Summer Preparation Institute. Off campus, Hebbard volunteered with local youth and businesses. In 2023, she received an associate degree in interdisciplinary studies from South Texas College. After graduation, Hebbard plans on attending law school to pursue a career in immigration, transactional, or intellectual property law. She is excited to learn more about the impact that laws have and how she can play a role in their advancement. 
Kathryn Hipolito | The University of Texas at San Antonio
Office of U.S. Representative Pat Fallon (TX-4) Kathryn Hipolito is a senior at The University of Texas at San Antonio majoring in public administration and policy with minors in civic engagement and nonprofit management. On campus, she served as a resident assistant for housing and residence life, the treasurer for Jolt Action, and the communications and outreach coordinator for the Ice Birds. After graduation, she plans to pursue a master’s degree in public administration and policy. Her long-term goal is to work in government or a nonprofit organization where she can advocate for policies that promote education, social justice, and equity. 
Carter Hull | The University of Texas at Austin
Federal Internship Carter Hull is a junior at The University of Texas at Austin, double majoring in government and international relations and global studies with a minor in Chinese. On campus, he served as a captain of the Texas Mock Trial team and conducted research with the Global Disinformation Lab. Off campus, Hull interned with the Texas State Legislature, the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, and the campaign of U.S. Representative Michael McCaul (TX-10). After graduation, he plans to attend law school and aspires to pursue a career in public policy or civil litigation. 
Leilani Hurtado | The University of Texas at Tyler
Office of U.S. Representative Nathaniel Moran (TX-1) Leilani Hurtado is a junior at The University of Texas at Tyler, double majoring in political science and English. On campus, Hurtado was a member of the Honors College, the president of the UT Tyler Debate team, and a national student representative of the National Parliamentary Debate Association. Off campus, she studied abroad in Italy, focusing on comparative politics and philosophy. Hurtado has aided in organizing advocacy events and collaborated with other university students to provide educational resources to undocumented high school students. After graduation, Hurtado plans to attend graduate school and pursue a career in international relations and humanitarian affairs. 
Nila Jeyapriya | The University of Texas at Dallas
ABPA Institute Nila Jeyapriya is a senior at The University of Texas at Dallas majoring in history with teaching certification for grades 8-12 and a minor in African American and African diaspora studies. On campus, she was the communications officer for the Phi Alpha Theta History Honors Society and a member of the Agaram Tamil Student Association and Project FIRE. Off campus, she was a community historian for the South Asian American Digital Archive and a mentee with Beloved Arise, an organization for queer religious youth. Jeyapriya recently completed teaching observations at Plano ISD and will begin clinical teaching upon her return from Washington, D.C. |
Unaiza Khakoo | The University of Texas at Dallas
U.S. Department of Commerce Unaiza Khakoo is a junior majoring in finance and economics at The University of Texas at Dallas. On campus, she wrote for the student newspaper, The Mercury, and participated in Model United Nations. Off campus, she volunteered as an ESL and citizenship class teacher for Richardson Adult Literacy Center and worked at Take MAR, an environmental nonprofit, as a grant writing intern. As a Benjamin A. Gilman scholar, she studied abroad in Vienna, Austria, which inspired her passion for ecological economics in a country focused on sustainability. After graduation, she aspires to work in economic research and international development. 
Alina Khawaja | The University of Texas at Austin
U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Alina Khawaja is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in psychology with a minor in philosophy of law and a certificate in business Spanish. On campus, she has served as the logistics chair for The Project, UT Austin’s largest day of service housed under the Community Engagement Collective. As a proud Pakistani, she also served as the vice president of the Texas Pakistani Students Association. Off campus, Khawaja worked as a legislative aide for Texas State Senator Borris L. Miles (SD-13) and as a student fellow for Beto O’Rourke’s gubernatorial campaign. After graduation, she plans to attend law school and hopes to further her studies by working in applied ethics and accountability. 
Matthew Lin | The University of Texas at Dallas
Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation Matthew Lin is a junior at The University of Texas at Dallas, majoring in public health and on the pre-med track. His research at the Naveen Jindal School of Management focused on developing a qualitative framework for how AI-assisted clinical procedures have been assimilated into reimbursement models. Over this past summer, he interned at a stealth healthcare technology start-up, deep-diving into regulations surrounding direct primary care. He is considering medical school and hopes to pursue an interdisciplinary career that supports an equitable and sustainable patient and physician-centric model of healthcare delivery. 
Kayla Madrid | The University of Texas at El Paso
Office of U.S. Representative Nanette Barragán (CA-44) Kayla Madrid is a junior at The University of Texas at El Paso, double majoring in political science and sociology with a minor in history. On campus, Madrid served as a senator-at-large within UTEP’s Student Government Association and the scholar enrichment chair for the Terry Scholars Student Organization. Off campus, Madrid was involved in tobacco prevention and served as a consultant for the Texas youth tobacco prevention group SayWhat. She also spent the summer interning for the Office of U.S. Representative Veronica Escobar (TX-16). After graduation, Madrid hopes to work in international relations, serving the borderland community of El Paso and beyond. 
Fatima Mancia Mendoza | The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Office of the Chief Administrative Officer, U.S. House of Representatives Fatima Mancia Mendoza is a senior at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley majoring in accounting with minors in management and political science. On campus, she served as president of the Enactus UTRGV chapter for the 2023-2024 academic year, when it won the Enactus national title. Off campus, she interned at KPMG and Fortress Investment Group and was a Kemper Ambassador and UTIMCO Scholar. After graduation, she plans to pursue a master’s degree in accounting and build a career in public service where she can continue her commitment to community impact and sustainable development initiatives. 
Ana Giselle Marquez Perez | The University of Texas at El Paso
Office of U.S. Representative Shri Thanedar (MI-13) Ana Giselle Marquez Perez is a junior at The University of Texas at El Paso majoring in education with a minor in primary grades and a bilingual certification. On campus, she served as a Miner Ambassador with the Office of Institutional Advancement and the President’s Office, as president of the student organization Le Club Français, and as collegiate senator of education within the Student Government Association. She also worked as an executive orientation leader and peer leader. After graduation, she plans to pursue graduate school. She aspires to become a superintendent within the El Paso community, where she aims to improve the education system, particularly for emergent bilingual students. 
Angel Martinez | The University of Texas at El Paso
Office of U.S. Representative Veronica Escobar (TX-16) Angel Martinez is a senior at The University of Texas at El Paso majoring in political science with minors in anthropology, communications, and intelligence and national security studies. On campus, he served as an officer for the Terry Scholars Student organization and the Yes, She Can! student organization. Throughout his college career, Martinez worked with notable nonprofit organizations such as the Mark Cuban Foundation, the Mellon Humanities Collaborative, and UnidosUS. He also contributed to diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts through his internships at Nissan North America and Pearson Education. Angel is a first-generation Mexican American passionate about broadening Latinx opportunities nationwide. After graduation, he aims to pursue a graduate degree in public administration and delve into nonprofit management, where he hopes to continue his advocacy and impact on a larger scale. 
Sandra Mata | The University of Texas at Austin
Office of U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (TX-37) Sandra Mata is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in government with a minor in communication studies. While on campus, she served as a Texas Civic Ambassador and was actively involved in the Annette Strauss Institute for Civic Life. Off campus, she served as a policy and advocacy intern at the Girls Empowerment Network and a policy research intern with Common Cause Texas. After graduation, Mata intends to pursue a career in education policy or youth advocacy. 
Ella McFarlane | The University of Texas at Austin
Office of U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (CT-3) Ella McFarlane is a junior at The University of Texas at Austin, double majoring in government and sociology with a minor in business. On campus, she served as a research assistant to Professor Daron Shaw and the Innovations for Peace and Development Lab. Her off-campus experiences include studying at Università Bocconi in Milan, Italy, and performing with the Bluecoats Drum and Bugle Corps every summer. After graduation, McFarlane hopes to continue her education with a master’s degree in public policy, eventually managing or consulting on political campaigns. 
Barbara Molina Valles | The University of Texas at El Paso
Latin America Working Group Barbara Molina Valles is a junior at The University of Texas at El Paso, double majoring in psychology and political science with a minor in legal reasoning. Valles is passionate about raising awareness of femicide and violence against women. On campus, she served as secretary of Deeds Not Words, vice president of the Student Impact Association, mentee at El Paso Women’s Bar Association, and undergraduate research assistant for the Latino Alcohol & Health Disparities laboratory. The daily interaction between Mexico and the El Paso community has inspired Molina Valles to pursue law school and dedicate her career to protecting and advocating for women in situations of violence. 
Oluwadara "Dara" Morakinyo | The University of Texas at Dallas
Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP Oluwadara "Dara" Morakinyo is a senior National Merit Scholar at The University of Texas at Dallas majoring in computer science. On campus, she served as a community officer for the Association for Computing Machinery, the head of service for the National Black Law Students Association, and a mentor to first-year students at UT Dallas. Morakinyo is passionate about responsible technology innovation. At the Center for Robust Speech Systems, she investigated bias in Automatic Speech Recognition systems. She also interned as a technology consultant with Credera and developed technology education tools with Vernier Science Education. After graduation, Morakinyo hopes to pursue a legal career in technology regulation. 
Saloni Nehra | The University of Texas at Dallas
U.S. House Committee on Ways and Means Saloni Nehra is a junior at The University of Texas at Dallas, double majoring in finance and information technology systems. On campus, she served as the vice president of external relations for Alpha Kappa Psi and worked as a pro-bono consultant with 180 Degrees Consulting. Beyond the classroom, Nehra broadened her global perspective by studying abroad at Universidad Pontificia Comillas in Madrid, Spain. Off campus, Nehra gained professional experience with Knowt, an education technology start-up focused on digital learning tools, and at Capital One as a business analyst intern. In the summer of 2025, she will intern with Boston Consulting Group, a global management consulting firm. After graduation, Nehra aims to pursue a career in consulting with the long-term goal of transitioning into social entrepreneurship. 
Zainab Olaniyan | The University of Texas at Dallas
U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Zainab Olaniyan is a senior at The University of Texas at Dallas majoring in public policy with a minor in African and African American diaspora studies. On campus, she chaired the student government’s Legislative Affairs Committee, oversaw voter registration drives and town halls with elected officials, and promoted civic engagement. She was a founder and the vice president of Faces of African Muslims (FAM), a student organization that teaches and celebrates the heritage of African descent Muslims; under her leadership, FAM grew to 100 members in its first year. Additionally, she conducted research and published findings on the impact of the Ebola virus health policy on survivors in Liberia and worked in the Office of U.S. Senator Michael Bennet (CO) as a legislative intern. Through these varied experiences, Olaniyan has developed an interest in education, labor, and health policy, and she is committed to empowering communities through active participation in policymaking. She aspires to a career in public service where she can advocate for policies that uplift her community. 
Jasmin Paquet-Durand Ford | The University of Texas at San Antonio
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce Jasmin Paquet-Durand Ford is a senior Business Honors student majoring in economics at The University of Texas at San Antonio. On campus, she actively contributed to the Student Government Association, holding key roles such as senator, vice president, and student body president. She also co-founded the Society of Economics at UT San Antonio, serving first as social director and most recently as vice president. Additionally, she was an Honors College peer coach, a supplemental instructor, and an undergraduate research assistant in the Department of Economics. Off campus, Paquet-Durand Ford served on the UT System Student Advisory Council as a UTSA representative, vice chair, and chair. Being raised in Belize influenced her fervent passion for the natural environment and economic development. After graduation, she will attend graduate school and ultimately pursue a career in research and advocacy. 
Bianca Vanessa Perez | The University of Texas at El Paso
Ayuda / Girl Up Bianca Vanessa Perez is a senior Texas Leadership Scholar at The University of Texas at El Paso, double majoring in criminal justice and psychology. For the past two summers, Perez has worked at the Texas Lions Camp, a summer camp for children with physical disabilities, and is a dedicated member of the Texas Leadership Scholars Program. Recently, Perez studied abroad in Quintana Roo, Mexico, and Costa Rica, where she obtained skills in culture and leadership that she continues to utilize in her work. After graduation, she plans to be a certified ASL interpreter and advocate for change in the juvenile justice system. 
Ruby Lorel Rodriguez | The University of Texas at El Paso
Organization of American States Ruby Lorel Rodriguez is a senior at The University of Texas at El Paso majoring in history with minors in secondary education and political science. Rodriguez is a recipient of the Greater Texas Foundation Scholarship. On campus, she served as president of Texas Rising, senator-at-large for the Student Government Association, and co-chair of the Welfare Committee. Off campus, Rodriguez has interned for U.S. Representative Veronica Escobar (TX-16), County Commissioner Iliana Holguin, Attorney Alexandria Serra, and the Honorable Judge William Moody of the 34th Judicial District. Additionally, Rodriguez is a college tutor for the Socorro Independent School District. After graduation, Rodriguez plans to attend graduate school for international relations with a concentration in education policy. 
Joseph Rogers | The University of Texas at Dallas
Conservation International - Moore Center for Science Joseph Rogers is a junior at The University of Texas at Dallas majoring in international political economy. On campus, he served as the event coordinator for UTD Improv and was an active UTD Model UN team member. Rogers competed at the NMUN D.C. and NMUN New York conferences, receiving a writing award for his work and recognition as an Outstanding Delegate for his committee. Previously, he worked under Dr. Elias Cisneros as a research assistant for studies related to sustainability policy. Rogers has also served as a mentor for high school debate teams. After graduation, Rogers aspires to work in international relations, emphasizing global resource development and the expansion of regional green economies. 
Isabella Sanchez | The University of Texas at Austin
U.S. House Committee on Education and the Workforce Isabella Sanchez is a junior at The University of Texas at Austin, double majoring in government and English. On campus, she served as a policy analyst in the Resilience and Adversity in Children’s Ecology Lab and as a member of the UT Governmental Relations Agency, tracking legislative developments in university policies. With prior experience as a criminal prosecutions intern at the Texas Office of the Attorney General, she possesses adeptness in legal research and trial preparation. After graduation, Sanchez plans to attend law school, aspiring to a dual career as an attorney and government official. 
Evan Saunders | The University of Texas at Arlington
The John W. Kluge Center at the Library of Congress Evan Saunders is a senior at The University of Texas at Arlington majoring in political science with a minor in computer science. On campus, he is a member of the Honors College and served as lead resident assistant for Apartment and Residence Life. Saunders was pivotal in chartering MEDLIFE for Mavs, a campus organization dedicated to improving healthcare and education for low-income communities in Latin America and Africa. Additionally, he worked as a site leader during multiple campuswide volunteer days. After graduation, Saunders plans to attend law school to pursue a career in civil rights law. 
Ashlynn Schultz | The University of Texas at Austin
Office of U.S. Senator John Cornyn (TX) Ashlynn Schultz is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in government and history with a minor in core texts and ideas. On campus, she has been involved with the Jefferson Scholars Program, UT SEEK, Texas Pre-Law Honor Society, and she was a 2023 Normandy Scholar. She recently finished her government honors thesis, “The Insular Cases, the Supreme Court, and the Phenomenon of Ignored Precedent.” Schultz previously interned for the Offices of Texas State Representative Jeff Leach (HD-67), Texas State Representative Matt Shaheen (HD-66), and the Criminal Appeals Division in the Office of the Attorney General. After graduation, she plans to attend law school, specializing in constitutional law, and venture into a legislative or judicial career. 
Leah Sullivan | The University of Texas at Dallas
Office of U.S. Representative Colin Allred (TX-32) Leah Sullivan is a junior National Merit Scholar and McDermott Scholar at The University of Texas at Dallas, pursuing dual degrees in international political economy and mathematics. On campus, Sullivan participated in student government for two years, serving as the vice president, elections board chair, and at-large senator. She is a member of Kappa Alpha Theta and participated in the Clark Summer Research Program. In her spare time, she volunteered with the Richardson Adult Literacy Center and Intellichoice math and SAT tutoring. In the summer of 2024, Sullivan interned at the U.S. Department of State. After graduation, she plans to attend graduate school in economics, focusing on computational analysis. 
Bella Tran | The University of Texas at Austin
Arnold & Porter Bella Tran is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin majoring in public health with a minor in government. On campus, she worked at the McCombs IT Service Desk, served as a volunteer counselor for Camp Kesem, a nationwide nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children with a parent facing cancer, and was a writer and editor for the Texas Undergraduate Law Journal. Additionally, she conducted research under the President’s Award for Global Learning Project on sustainable desalination systems, where she focused on tackling water scarcity in rural Kenya. Off campus, Tran interned with the Office of Texas State Representative John Bryant (HD-114) during the 88th Legislative Session. Upon graduation, she hopes to attend law school to further her health policy and civil rights law interests. 
Fiona Valorz | The University of Texas at San Antonio
EarthDay.org Fiona Valorz is a junior honors student at The University of Texas at San Antonio, majoring in environmental studies with minors in civic engagement and economics. On campus, she researched the spatiotemporal characterization of microplastics in ephemeral streams, championed social justice as a Civic and Community Engaged Leadership Scholar, served as the vice president of student advocacy for the College of Sciences Student Council, and was an ambassador for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Off campus, she aided a venture capitalist fund in Argentina as a consulting strategist, studied abroad in Europe as a Gilman Scholar, and conducted data analysis for the Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance, a nonprofit conservation organization. Following graduation, she is eager to advance progress in environmental protections by expanding the implementation and quality of corporate social responsibility and environmental social governance. 
Tommy Wan | The University of Texas at Austin
Office of U.S. Representative Lizzie Fletcher (TX-7) Tommy Wan is a junior at The University of Texas at Austin with a triple major in civil engineering, government, and Plan II Honors. His interests include sustainable infrastructure, municipal engineering, and urban policy. He was a legislative aide at the Texas House of Representatives, an intern with Houston City Council (District F), and served as program director with AliefVotes. On campus, he competed on the Texas Mock Trial Team and wrote for the Daily Texan. After graduation, Wan plans to receive a master’s degree in public policy, attend law school, and continue community work in Alief, Texas. 
Mia Weissbluth | The University of Texas at Austin
Office of Senator Tammy Duckworth (IL) Mia Weissbluth is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin, double majoring in Middle Eastern studies and government. Weissbluth was an Undergraduate Senior Fellow at the Clements Center for National Security and a former Brumley Next Generation Scholar, where she examined potential augmentations of the Middle Eastern Partnership for Peace Act. On campus, Weissbluth served as an officer for Central Texas Model United Nations and was co-vice president of membership for Texas Orange Jackets, an honorary service organization that serves as the official host of UT Austin. Weissbluth is interested in contemporary Middle Eastern geopolitics and national security. |
