Throughout our community, young minds are brimming with potential — eager to learn, contribute, and shape the future of Nampa. As someone who has served in both elected and administrative roles, with experience at various levels of government, I’ve seen firsthand how meaningful exposure to public service can ignite a lifelong commitment to civic engagement. As chief of staff, I helped supervise an internship program that included both high school and university students, working on projects with an emphasis on civics, policy, and public administration. It was exciting to also help our interns secure admission, scholarships, and future employment.
I believe the mayor’s office must be a place where emerging leaders are not only welcomed, but empowered.
Internship opportunities in the Mayor’s office are more than résumé builders — they’re bridges between aspiration and action. They allow students to witness the complexities of governance, participate in real-time problem solving, and understand the ethical responsibilities that come with public leadership. These experiences cultivate a deeper appreciation for the role of local government in shaping community outcomes.
Moreover, internships foster a culture of mentorship. When seasoned public servants take time to guide and invest in the next generation, we create a ripple effect of stewardship and civic pride. Interns bring fresh perspectives, technological fluency, and a hunger to innovate — qualities that enrich our decision-making. I learned as much or more from our interns as they learned from me.
As mayor, I will prioritize structured internship programs that reflect our city’s commitment to empowering our future leaders. Whether assisting with policy research, community outreach, or administrative support, interns will be given meaningful tasks and the opportunity to reflect and grow. In return, they’ll gain insight, confidence, and a clearer sense of how they can contribute to Nampa’s future.
Let’s make the Mayor’s office a launchpad for public service. Because when we invest in young leaders today, we secure a stronger, more resilient Nampa for tomorrow.
