Government Affairs Intern

Intern Job Title:         Government Affairs Intern  

Department:               Public Policy and Government Affairs

Reports To:                Senior Vice President Public Policy & Government Affairs

FLSA Status:             Non-Exempt               

Stipend Amount:      Stipend of $4,000 total for the duration of the program(equivalent to approximately $19.05/hour. This does not include lodging or transportation)

Hours Per Week:       21 Hours

Location:                    Washington, DC

End Date:                   August 7, 2026

JOB DESCRIPTION 

The Public Policy and Government Affairs (PPGA) department is a strategic priority for UNCF. With over 25 years of Capitol Hill and advocacy experience, the team informs and influences critical national policy discussions. PPGA works to build a robust pipeline of underrepresented students who become highly qualified college graduates and supports member institutions in improving student outcomes.

ABOUT UNCF  

The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) has been an engine of educational achievement for more than 80 years. UNCF’s mission is to build a robust and nationally recognized pipeline of HBCU students who, because of UNCF support, become highly qualified college graduates. In addition, UNCF ensures that its member institutions remain respected models of best practices in moving students to and through college. Since its inception in 1944, UNCF has raised over $6 billion in private support, distributed scholarships to help students attend school, and enabled more than 500,000 scholars and low-income students to graduate from UNCF’s member historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and launch professional careers. UNCF is committed to closing the educational attainment gap by increasing postsecondary access and success for student groups, particularly low-income and first-generation students.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES: 

The Government Affairs Intern will support the PPGA team in advancing UNCF’s advocacy and policy goals. Responsibilities include:

• Tracking legislation and amendments moving through the congressional process


• Attending congressional hearings, markups, and policy events


• Assisting with policy analysis and issue tracking


• Compiling and summarizing materials on emerging and existing public policy


• Monitoring statements from policymakers and tracking positions of allies and opponents


• Supporting coalition-building efforts and maintaining partnerships


• Assisting with the coordination of webinars, conference calls, and policy briefings


• Providing general administrative support as needed

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

No supervisory responsibilities. 

QUALIFICATIONS: 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE 

• Current undergraduate or graduate student in Political Science, Public Policy, Government, or a related field


• Academic Standing: Minimum GPA of 2.5 or higher preferred.


• Strong research, writing, and communication skills


• Interest in public policy, advocacy, and civic engagement


• Ability to work independently and collaboratively


• Professionalism and attention to detail


• Availability to work onsite during our core hours Monday – Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm 


• Availability for occasional evenings and weekends event(s).

   

LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

At the conclusion of the internship, the intern will complete a final project that reflects their contributions and learning. This may include a policy analysis, advocacy campaign proposal, or legislative tracking report. The intern will also submit a 1-page written reflection summarizing their experience, key takeaways, and how the internship supports their future goals.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

To apply for this internship, please submit your application online and include the following uploaded documents with application for consideration:

• A current resume


• Applicants must provide an unofficial transcript demonstrating a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5


• *Professional Reference (include name, email, and phone number)


• *Recommendation Letter

*Cannot be a family member. 

Only completed applications submitted through the online portal will be considered. 

Background checks required.

UNCF is EOE M/F/D/V

This is an excellent opportunity to gain experience supporting impactful programs while networking within the organization. Please apply if you are proactive, highly motivated, and excited to share your organizational skills!