News

By Merritt Jenkins

Lee University junior Brandon Newell participated in a summer six-week internship under senator Bill Hagerty in Washington, D.C.

Newell is from Dayton and majors in public administration. He received this internship opportunity after working on senator Hagerty’s campaign the previous summer and was able to get connected to his team in D.C.

“The internship has taught me how our government actually works and how key members can shape legislation,” said Newell. “I also learned how to work as a team for the good of the member as well as dealing with constituents.”

As part of his six-week internship, Newell worked in the main office answering constituent calls and mail, as well as assisting the other departments. He performed tasks such as researching Olympic athletes from Tennessee or those attending a Tennessee college, working on daily press clips, legislative research on specific bills coming to the Senate floor, and researching the history of the rooms in the Capitol for a tour template for future interns.

Newell credits his Lee advisor, Dr. Mark Scully, for being “an incredible asset” during his time in D.C. “Dr. Scully had previously lived in D.C. and spoke candidly about how to navigate t he city and how to make the most of my internship,” said Newell. “One of the things he suggested was I reach out to people and stay connected, and that was a great piece of advice because once you get connected with people on the Hill, it is easy to return.”

According to Scully, Newell is a student who works hard to create opportunities that allow him to put into practice many of the lessons they spend time discussing in the classroom.

“It helps that he is a very respectful and amiable young man, both of which quickly earn him the trust and confidence of people around him,” said Scully. “I am sure he will continue to experience success if he pursues a career in public service.”