First Class of Vinson Fellows Selected for Fall 2009
Three University of Georgia undergraduate students have been selected for the first class of the Vinson Institute Fellows Program beginning in August 2009—Andrew Laarhoven, economics and political science major; Yasmin Yonis, international affairs and journalism major; and Lauren Pinson, who has dual enrollment in international affairs and the Masters of Public Administration program.
“We were pleased to receive many impressive applications for the first semester of the Vinson Fellows Program. The fall 2009 class will be a strong one,” commented Vinson Institute director Steve Wrigley.
The Vinson Institute Fellows Program is a semester-long internship that provides students with an inside look into state and local government and involves them in the diverse work of the Institute. Over the course of the program, the Vinson Fellows will have the opportunity to meet elected and appointed officials, attend training sessions and conferences, and assist in Institute research and other projects.
Fellows will also be matched with a faculty mentor in one of the Institute’s training, technical assistance, applied research, or communications programs. Mr. Laarhoven will work with a faculty member in the Governmental Training, Education, and Development Division; Ms. Yonis in the International Center; and Ms. Pinson in Governmental Services and Research.
“This program will give students a close look at the important work that takes place in the state and local levels of government,” said Jennifer Frum, Institute assistant director.
The Institute designed the Fellows Program as a way to encourage public service in state and local governments in University of Georgia students. Fellows will devote at least eight hours per week to their projects and responsibilities.
The Vinson Institute will begin accepting applications for the spring semester 2010 program in August. Interested undergraduates should check periodically for updates on the Vinson Institute Fellows Program website or direct their inquiries to Jennifer Frum at internships@cviog.uga.edu.
