About the Program

Our Mission: Support

The Leonard D. Schaeffer Fellows in Government Service program funds government internships, provides professional development, and fosters mentorship for undergraduate students with exceptional potential. Schaeffer Fellows gain experience-based knowledge of government operations, a deeper understanding of the impact of public service, and the skills and motivation to join the next generation of civic leaders.

Grounded in Key Themes

The Schaeffer Fellows program is grounded in the following four key themes. These themes are explored through a variety of sessions throughout the summer and Schaeffer Fellows Resource Guide.

Reflecting on Core Values

Exploring Leadership Lessons

Collaborating & Networking

Developing Transferable Skills

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A Cohort Experience

Leonard D. Schaeffer established the Schaeffer Fellows in Government Service program in 2015, inspired by his experience as an undergraduate congressional intern. Today, the program supports a cohort of 50 undergraduate students from five universities in government internships each summer. It is a flagship program of the USC Schaeffer Institute for Public Policy and Government Service, which develops evidence-based solutions to address the nation’s most pressing policy issues and supports students in becoming involved citizens.

Schaeffer Fellows come from different backgrounds, political perspectives, and academic disciplines. During ten-week, full-time government internship, Fellows track legislation, conduct research, draft policy memos and constituent letters, attend meetings and hearings, support programs and events, contribute to daily office operations, and develop lasting professional networks with peers and government officials.

Learn More About the Fellows

2015-2024: A Decade of Impact

Over the past decade, the program has expanded to support 50 Fellows each year, offering living stipends, mentorship, and career development opportunities. As it celebrates its tenth anniversary, the program takes pride in its thriving alumni community and is well-positioned for continued impact in the years ahead.

View Our Milestones

Meet Our Team

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Erica Lovano McCann, Ed.D.

Executive Director

Erica Lovano McCann partnered with Leonard Schaeffer to establish the Schaeffer Fellows in Government Service program at the University of Southern California in 2015 and subsequently led its expansion to additional partner universities. As Executive Director, she works closely with the Schaeffer Fellows Advisory Board to advance the program’s strategic priorities. She also oversees the design and implementation of all programming, and ensures a consistent and high-quality experience for Fellows. Under her leadership, the program has strengthened institutional collaboration and cultivated a vibrant nationwide network of alumni.
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Willa Erickson, M.Ed.

Assistant Director

Willa Erickson joined the Schaeffer Fellows program in 2019 and has since played a central role in strengthening its visibility and operations. As Assistant Director, she coordinates communications, supports programming for Fellows and alumni, and facilitates assessment and reporting to demonstrate program impact. Based at USC, Erickson also manages the university’s annual selection and internship placement process, collaborating with government offices and agencies to secure meaningful opportunities and pairing Fellows with supportive alumni mentors.

Contact Us

Our staff is available to answer questions about the Schaeffer Fellows program, partnerships, and events.

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