Governor's Fellows Program Taps Two UR Students

Two University of Richmond students will participate in Virginia Governor Ralph Northam’s 2019 Governor’s Fellows Program this summer. 

Sean Clair and Taylor Hoogsteden were two of 28 Virginia students selected for this year’s program, which offers rising college seniors, recent graduates, and graduate students an opportunity to gain experience working in the Office of the Governor.

“Every summer, I look forward to the arrival of the Governor’s Fellows and the unique experiences, perspectives, and energy that each one of them brings,” said Governor Northam. “This program aims to cultivate the next generation of Virginia leaders by introducing young Virginians with a desire to serve to the workings of the executive branch and helping them build the skills and relationships to create a positive impact in our Commonwealth.”

Clair, of Voorheesville, New York, graduated from UR earlier this month with a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in chemistry and minors in environmental studies and geography. Clair received the Garnett Ryland Award, an honor awarded to the top chemistry graduate each year. He plans to work in science policy after he completes his time in the Governor’s Office this summer.

“This fellowship was a great way to complement my science background with policy experience,” said Clair. It is exciting to be involved with state-level government and make connections between the two.”

Hoogsteden, a rising senior from Princeton Junction, New Jersey, is majoring in leadership studies and double minoring in education and society and law and the liberal arts. She plans to earn her master’s degree in education and ultimately work in government to influence education policy.

“The Governor’s Fellows Program provides a unique opportunity to increase my understanding of how policy is created and influenced at the state level and to dig deep into the issues I am most passionate about,” said Hoogsteden.

For more information on the Governor’s Fellows Program, visit: governor.virginia.gov/the-administration/fellows/.

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