In addition to collecting historical materials, investing in partnerships, and awarding grants, The Dirksen Congressional Center pursues its mission by awarding scholarships and supporting the Michel — LaHood Summer Congressional Internship Program.
Michel — LaHood Summer Congressional Internship Program
Established in 2023, the Michel — LaHood internship provides stipends covering at least $7,000 per student in housing, living and travel expenses for Bradley University students to participate in summer internships in congressional offices on Capitol Hill. The stipends remove an often-insurmountable cost barrier faced by many students.
The program supports the transformative influence of mentorships among those seeking careers in public service. Its namesakes, former U.S. Reps. Bob Michel and Ray LaHood (IL-18) both had early-career experience in congressional offices themselves, and in turn they each influenced countless young interns and staffers.
Members of Congress hosting interns through the program include U.S. Reps. Robin Kelly (IL-2), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Darin LaHood (IL-16), and Eric Sorensen (IL-17).
Bradley undergraduates of all academic majors are eligible to take part in the 10-week program, and also earn academic credit for their work. Students are selected by a panel including representatives from the Dirksen Congressional Center and Bradley University.
Financing comes from an endowed fund first established by Ray LaHood in 2004. Ongoing community and business contributions supplement the fund for the benefit of future cohorts of interns.
Donations can be made to the Ray LaHood Fund, c/o The Dirksen Congressional Center, 2815 Broadway, Pekin, IL 61554.
Internship Participants
2024 McKenzie Cobb, Will Cypert, Annabel Lomeli, Chase Wildermuth
2023 Luke Borri, Lavannya Deolalikar, Sarah Sweeney