The Fund for American Studies (TFAS) welcomed 19 exceptional students to the 2025 Washington Fellowship cohort. Now in its second year, the Washington Fellowship provides top student leaders with a fully-funded opportunity to live, learn and intern in the heart of Washington, D.C. These courageous young leaders gain firsthand experience in government and policy and learn to embrace the principles that shape American society.
Annie Heim ’25, a student at Cedarville University, shared how her experience with TFAS is shaping her personally and professionally.
“Washington feels like home, thanks to TFAS,” Heim said. “The networking opportunities have helped me gain confidence and take meaningful steps toward my personal and professional goals.”
The Fellowship’s curriculum focuses on the principles of liberty, free markets and individual responsibility, providing Fellows with a strong foundation in the ideas that contributed to America’s success and preparing them to be effective advocates for a free and prosperous society.
The Fellowship features internships with Washington’s leading think tanks, lobbying firms and government offices. This semester, students are interning with the House Ways and Means Committee, the Healthcare Leadership Council, the Washington Free Beacon and Advancing American Freedom.
In addition to their professional internships, Fellows earn up to 12 academic credit hours through intensive courses with TFAS academic partner, George Mason University. The curriculum includes classes such as Economic Problems and Public Policies, American Political Thought and an internship seminar. These courses are taught by distinguished TFAS faculty, including Dr. Anne Bradley, TFAS vice president of academic affairs, Richard Boyd, an associate professor of government at Georgetown University and Karen Czarnecki ’88, executive director of the Charlotte Lozier Institute.
Fellows also participate in exclusive TFAS events, including guest lectures, site briefings and networking opportunities. These experiences help equip Fellows with a deep understanding of the values that underpin American society and empower them to become principled leaders who will make a lasting impact on their communities.
The Fellowship officially began with an orientation and opening ceremony on Friday, January 17, featuring TFAS alumnus and political correspondent Nick Ballasy ’07 as the keynote speaker.
In his keynote address, Ballasy shared insights from his career as a political correspondent, encouraging Fellows to stay curious and embrace every opportunity for growth during their time in Washington.
Throughout the semester, Fellows will attend exclusive site briefings with leading organizations in Washington, D.C., gaining insights from top public policy experts and political leaders. Notable briefings include visits to the American Enterprise Institute, The Heritage Foundation, the Competitive Enterprise Institute and the Victims of Communism Museum.
Washington feels like home, thanks to TFAS. The networking opportunities have helped me gain confidence and take meaningful steps toward my personal and professional goals.” – Annie Heim ’25
Outside of classes, internships and special events, TFAS also curates time for exploring the city’s rich history – visiting museums, strolling through the National Mall and discovering the most iconic monuments Washington has to offer.
As part of the Washington Fellowship, Fellows also meet with TFAS alumni through the Professional Mentor Program, receiving valuable guidance and support from experienced professionals in Washington, D.C. This year, TFAS introduced a new approach for the program. Through a series of themed monthly mentoring dinners, Fellows engage with a diverse group of alumni, who share their stories, offer career advice and discuss how their TFAS experience shaped their professional journeys.
The first mentoring dinner took place on Wednesday, January 29, focusing on the theme of “Maximizing Your Time in Washington.” Five distinguished alumni shared valuable insights into career development, leadership, and perseverance, helping to inspire the next generation of leaders.
These alumni included:
- Pasquale DiFrancesco ’13, vice president at Advanced Advocacy
- Andrew Powaleny ’08, senior director of public affairs at PhRMA
- Jacob Warren ’20, honors paralegal at Federal Trade Commission
- Fathima Castillo ’20, paralegal specialist, Civil Rights Division at U.S. Department of Justice
- Tiffanie Oduber ’20, staff engagement and coordination specialist at USAID-Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance
Abby McGovern, TFAS program manager of Business and Government Relations and Washington Fellowship, shared her excitement about this year’s cohort of Fellows.
“This year’s cohort of Washington Fellows is truly outstanding,” McGovern said. “I’m excited to have such a talented group of students with TFAS this semester and look forward to seeing their growth and accomplishments.”
This curated Washington semester experience helps equip these TFAS Fellows with a deep understanding of the values that underpin American society and empowers them to become principled, courageous leaders who will make a lasting impact on their communities.
Tamia Baker
University: University of Mississippi
Major: Public Policy Leadership
Hometown: Aberdeen, Mississippi
Internship: Navajo Nation
Tamia Baker is a junior at the University of Mississippi, majoring in public policy leadership. Originally from Aberdeen, Mississippi, she enjoys reading and spending time with God. Tamia is outgoing and loves meeting new people.
Clark Burg
University: New College of Florida
Major: Economics
Hometown: Miami, Florida
Internship: Rep. Troy Downing of Montana
Clark Burg is a sophomore majoring in economics at New College of Florida. Born and raised in Miami, he enjoys stock option trading and the financial markets. He founded the Financial Freedom Club at his high school and the Pickleball Club at his college. Clark also experienced various entrepreneurial ventures, including his latest internship with Raymond James, reselling game consoles on eBay in 2021, owning multiple e-commerce stores and doing social media marketing for a prominent comedian. Clark boxed for six years and is beginning to train in mixed martial arts. He loves self-improvement; his inspiration is David Goggins, and he enjoys running and doing things that push him to be a better man. Clark is excited and grateful to have the opportunity to embark on this new journey, creating valuable friendships and meeting new people while gaining invaluable experience.
Demaree Clark
University: North Carolina State University
Major: Political Science
Hometown: Fayetteville, North Carolina
Internship: Association of Prosecuting Attorneys
Demaree Clark is a sophomore at North Carolina State University majoring in political science with a minor in nonprofit studies, aspiring to a career in labor law. He has extensive leadership experience, including managing events, coordinating student outreach and supporting faculty operations. Demaree also mentors peers and promotes public speaking and advocacy skills through campus involvement. His academic interests include labor rights, workplace equity and the role of nonprofits in advancing public policy. Passionate about fostering fairness and opportunity, Demaree is eager to collaborate with the TFAS community to deepen his advocacy and public service knowledge. He enjoys reading, exploring local events and honing his networking skills in his free time.
Diana Esters
University: Western Carolina University
Major: Economic Analysis
Hometown: Fayetteville, North Carolina
Internship: Americans for Tax Reform
Diana Esters is a first-generation graduate of Western Carolina University. On campus, she served as the lead economics tutor and student fellow for the College Debates and Discourse Alliance. She was also the president of the Ballroom Dance Club and the director of communication for Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).
Daniel Fredericks ’24
University: United States Coast Guard Academy
Major: Government
Hometown: Kingsland, Georgia
Internship: Rep. Austin Scott of Georgia
Daniel Fredericks ’24 is a dedicated student pursuing a government major with a concentration in public policy and law at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. Passionate about service, he took a gap year volunteering in Poland and plans to continue this work after completing the TFAS Washington Fellowship. An alumnus of the 2024 TFAS Summer Program in Prague, Daniel eagerly returns to TFAS to engage in rigorous academics, intern on Capitol Hill and build meaningful connections. Beyond his studies and service, Daniel enjoys exploring nature, attending concerts and embracing new experiences.
Audrey Guess
University: Hillsdale College
Major: Economics
Hometown: Prescott, Arizona
Internship: Rep. Andy Biggs of Arizona
Audrey Guess recently graduated from Hillsdale College, where she studied economics and applied mathematics. She gained hands-on experience in economic research and guest services through an internship with the American Institute for Economic Research and participation in the Disney College Program. At Hillsdale, Audrey was involved in Kappa Kappa Gamma, the Praxis Political Economy Club and the Admissions team. Her experiences cultivated a passion for the Austrian School of Economics, free-market principles and classical liberalism. Audrey plans to pursue a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in economics, aspiring to advance research and contribute to the academic discourse on free-market economic theory.
Garrett Hanson
University: University of Arizona
Major: Philosophy, Politics, Economics, & Law
Hometown: Burr Ridge, Illinois
Internship: Club for Growth
Garrett Hanson is a hard-working, second year student who is heavily involved at his campus and looking to make an impact in Washington, D.C. He is currently head of communications and outreach for Tucson Effective Altruism, event coordinator for Arbol de la Vida Hall Council and an active member of the Filipino American Student Association. Through his first year of study, he has developed a strong interest in AI governance, social science research and data analysis and, also, intelligence operations.
Annie Heim
University: Cedarville University
Major: Economics
Hometown: Lizton, Indiana
Internship: House Oversight Committee
Annie Heim is planning to continue her education in law or economics. At Cedarville University, she is dedicated to her role on the mock trial team. In her free time, she likes exploring the local area around the university like hiking in local parks, going to museums and plays and taking drives on the scenic roads nearby. She loves traveling around the country; in 2023, she visited New York City and Los Angeles for the first time. Now she is eager to spend more time in the nation’s capital.
Luca Kamieniecki
University: Clemson University
Major: Political Science
Hometown: Greer, South Carolina
Internship: Lobbyit
Luca Kamieniecki is a junior at Clemson University, majoring in political science and minoring in criminal justice. After graduation, he hopes to attend law school and work for the State Department. A South Carolina native, Luca worked on Capitol Hill this past summer for his senator, Tim Scott of South Carolina. He is excited to return to Washington, D.C., this spring to learn and make new friends.
Arman Luthra
University: Wabash College
Major: Computer Science
Hometown: Crawfordsville, Indiana
Arman Luthra is a Wabash College junior majoring in computer science and art with a minor in economics. He is the president of the International Students Association and the president of the indoor soccer club. He also serves as the Class of ’26 Senate Representative and a resident assistant. In his spare time, Arman enjoys coding applications and playing soccer.
Stephanie Machinova
University: Ohio State University
Major: Economics
Hometown: Avon, Ohio
Internship: Federalist Society
Stephanie Machinova recently graduated from Ohio State University. She studied economics and French and was a member of the American Enterprise Institute’s Collegiate Network. Her work experience includes Moritz College of Law and the Ohio House of Representatives. She will attend law school in the fall and is interested in tax law, antitrust law, economics and public policy.
Patrick McGrath
University: Ball State University
Major: Political Economy
Hometown: Fortville, Indiana
Internship: Advancing American Freedom
Patrick McGrath is a sophomore at Ball State University studying political economics. Patrick served in a leadership role as the secretary of the Economics Club at Ball State. Patrick also works as a high school football coach.
Liliana Myers
University: College of Charleston
Major: Economics
Hometown: Wilmington, North Carolina
Internship: Rep. David Rouzer of North Carolina
Lilliana Myers is a junior at the College of Charleston, majoring in economics and minoring in dance and Spanish. She also serves as the president of the Women in Business Club, a Student Government Senator and a Market Process Scholar through the Center for Public Choice and Market Process. Originally from Wilmington, North Carolina, she studied abroad in Prague, Czech Republic, in the summer of 2023, taking European history and literature courses. She used her passion for international affairs in her recent participation in the Southeast Regional Model United Nations Conference, where she received a best delegate award representing the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in the General Assembly Plenary.
Phillip Petersen
University: Arizona State University
Major: Civic & Economic Thought & Leadership
Hometown: Tuscon, Arizona
Phillip Petersen is a senior at Arizona State University studying civic and economic thought and leadership from Tuscon, Arizona. He is a political guru who has taken an international focus and classes in Italy, Thailand, Brazil, Israel, Romania and Antarctica.
Rajeev Rai ’24
University: Ohio State University
Major: Economics
Hometown: Columbus, Ohio
Internship: Lobbyit
Rajeev Rai actively engages in a plethora of interests within both formal and informal organizations. He is an active member of the Undergraduate Economics Society and the psychology movie club at The Ohio State University along with the Boxing Club and the rock-climbing community. Prior to returning to Columbus, Ohio, for university, he lived in Malaysia for 13 years where he completed his A-Levels. While living in Malaysia, he visited India, Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia, where he was exposed to a variety of different people and cultures. One of the key highlights of his education in Malaysia was participating in Inspreuner 2019, a two-day Business and Innovation Summit between India and Singapore. Rajeev is an alumnus of the 2024 TFAS D.C. Summer Program in the Business + Government Relations track.
Ian Schedler
University: Xavier University
Major: Philosophy, Politics, & Political Science
Hometown: Wauwatosa, Wisconsin
Internship: Rep. Troy Downing of Montana
Ian Schedler is a junior at Xavier University studying philosophy and political science. He serves on the board of the Xavier College Republicans and is a member of the pre-law society and student government. He previously worked in politics, interning last summer for Rep. Scott Fitzgerald of Wisconsin. This fall, he will intern for former Rep. Brad Wenstrup of Ohio. Ian hopes to work for Congress after graduation and is excited to be back in Washington, D.C., this spring.
Colton Schmanderer
University: Creighton University
Major: Economics
Hometown: Omaha, Nebraska
Internship: Healthcare Leadership Council
Colton Schmanderer is a sophomore at Creighton University from Omaha, Nebraska. He is studying economics at the Heider College of Business and is exploring the different career paths of the major. As a part of the Spring 2025 TFAS cohort, he is interning at the Healthcare Leadership Council. He looks forward to meeting his peers, honing his skills and engaging with many theories and concepts that serve as the foundation of Washington, D.C., throughout the Washington Fellowship.
Jessica Schwalb
University: Columbia University
Major: Human Rights
Hometown: Jeffersonville, New York
Internship: Washington Free Beacon
Jessica Schwalb is a graduate of Columbia University from the Catskill Mountains of New York. She studied human rights with a specialization in psychology and began her freelance journalism career as a junior while covering the Israel-Hamas protests. Jessica was interviewed on live television numerous times to discuss her investigative work revealing a culture of antisemitism at Columbia. These experiences catalyzed her goal to become a full-time journalist focusing on exposing civil and human rights violations throughout the United States and the world. Jessica is beyond excited to continue her studies with TFAS and join the Washington Free Beacon to sharpen her craft. On campus, Jessica was a member of TFAS’s Student Journalism Association, where she wrote for campus paper, the Columbia Sundial.
Eric Tarpinian-Jachym
University: University of Massachusetts Amherst
Major: Finance
Hometown: Aberdeen, Mississippi
Internship: Advanced Advocacy
Eric Tarpinian-Jachym is a junior at the University of Massachusetts Amherst studying finance and political science. He is an active learner engaged in numerous clubs on campus, including the finance society, investment club, investment banking club and ski club.
For more information about the Fellowship, please visit TFAS.org/WashingtonFellowship.