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 Four 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
A COHORT EXPERIENCE
Mr. Schaeffer established the program in 2015, inspired by his experience as an undergraduate congressional intern. The program supports a distinguished cohort of Fellows annually and maintains a thriving alumni community. Schaeffer Fellows come from different backgrounds, political perspectives, and academic disciplines.
Schaeffer Fellows are selected from five universities - Harvard University; Princeton University; the University of California, Berkeley; the University of Southern California; and the University of Virginia. During ten-week, full-time government internships, Fellows:
- interact with government officials and constituents
- track legislation
- conduct research
- draft policy memos and constituent letters
- attend meetings, hearings, and events
- support program development and implementation
- contribute to daily office operations
- develop lasting professional networks with government officials and other interns
Meet Our Team
Erica Lovano McCann, Ed.D.
Executive Director
Dr. Erica Lovano McCann has been with the Leonard D. Schaeffer Fellows in Government Service program since its inaugural year at the University of Southern California. As Executive Director, Erica works closely on developing strategic partnerships, liaising with participating universities, and overseeing the implementation of programming and events. As the program grows, Erica works closely with Leonard Schaeffer and the Schaeffer Fellows Advisory Board furthering the mission and vision of the program.
Willa Erickson, M.Ed.
Assistant Director
Willa Erickson began working with the Leonard D. Schaeffer Fellows in Government Service program in January 2019 to assist with planning program events, communicating with the national cohort of Schaeffer Fellows and alumni, and continuing to build a strong program identity. She facilitates the Alumni Ambassador program and maintains the Online Community. Willa also plays a dual role at the University of Southern California coordinating the University’s cohort selection and internship matching process.
Contact Us
Our staff is available to answer questions about the Schaeffer Fellows program, partnerships, and events.