Boone County natives Joshua Jackson and Sarah McLendon are gaining experience as interns with State Reps. Mark Genda (R-Frankfort), Jeff Thompson (R-Lizton) and their fellow members of the Indiana House of Representatives during the 2023 legislative session.
“These interns are a driving force here at the Statehouse,” Thompson said. “Every day they’re putting in their best effort to help constituents and legislators alike. Sarah and Josh are both very talented and we’re fortunate to have them lending their skills to our team.”
Jackson, a Thorntown resident, is the son of Phil and Debra Jackson. He is a graduate of Jackson Academy and recently earned a degree in communications from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis.
“This internship has been a great opportunity to strengthen my skills and get to know legislators, who are passing laws impacting the entire state,” Jackson said. “This experience is helping me grow as a professional and prepare for my future career.”
As a communications intern, Jackson helps write news releases, prepare handouts for legislators and create email newsletters for constituents.
McLendon, a Jamestown resident, is the daughter of Andrew and Kimberlie McLendon. A graduate of Western Boone Jr./Sr. High School, she is currently attending Ball State University and majoring in business administration and entrepreneurship.
“Interning with the House of Representatives is a good way to develop yourself as a professional while working with legislators and staff to serve Hoosiers across our state,” McLendon said. “I’m building a great set of workplace skills and collaborative abilities that I’ll use for years to come.”
As a legislative intern, McLendon corresponds with constituents through phone calls, letters and emails while also staffing committee hearings and floor proceedings.
“Our interns are building valuable career skills while helping us stay connected with constituents and being prepared for session,” Genda said. “I highly encourage interested college students and recent graduates in our community to apply to intern in 2024 for an exciting and rewarding experience at the Statehouse.”
Each year, the House of Representatives offers paid internship opportunities to college students, law-school students, graduate students and recent college graduates for the duration of each legislative session.
Visit IndianaHouseRepublicans.com/internship for more information about the House Republican internship program.