Special Initiatives
American Indian / Alaskan Native Leadership Initiative
The Washington Center's American Indian/Alaskan Native Leadership Initiative prepares Native American Indian leaders from colleges and universities from across the country to assume leadership positions in the public sector. Students participate in internships tailored to their interests, interact with successful government representatives, and develop leadership skills.
Program Goals
- Encourage American Indians/ Alaskan Natives to consider an internship and possible career with the federal government.
- Identify and acquaint students with positive American Indian/ Alaskan Native role models.
- Help students define personal, academic and professional goals.
- Integrate academic theory with professional experience for deeper understanding of public policy formation and students' roles in that process.
- Engage American Indian/ Alaskan Native students in professional networking opportunities.
- Encourage students to contribute to society through service.
The Washington Center partners with Tribal Colleges and tribal nations across the country to identify and recruit top students. Students must be enrolled members of a tribe to qualify for the program. Students are placed in federal agencies through a sponsorship fee paid by the government agency.
Here is what former students have said about the program
Lacey McKenzie
Fall 2003 Participant, Member of the Cherokee Nation
"This internship will forever help me realize my potential in anything that I may pursue as a future career. It taught me that hard work and persistence pay off, and that I can do whatever I put my mind to."
George W. Shongutsie
Summer 2003 Participant, Eastern Shoshone Tribe
"I have enjoyed my internship experience with The Washington Center and the placement at the Department of Veterans Affairs/National Cemetery Administration; it has allowed me to experience a federal government agency from the headquarters perspective. Overall, the experience of interning in Washington, D.C. has given me exposure to people and places I otherwise would not have experienced. I have had the privilege of meeting and networking with a number of tribal members from throughout the United States."
Amanda Harrison
Summer 2003 Participant, Member of the Navajo Nation
"Being a Washington Center intern has given me opportunities to network with professionals in different work fields. I was able to participate in different types of events such as congressional breakfasts and presidential lectures. This program gave me an opportunity of a lifetime to live, work, and experience Washington, D.C. I would recommend this program to all students."
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