Summer Intern Edition 

Congressman Womack and a few summer interns in front of the Capitol.

One of the best parts of my job is meeting and spending time with America’s next generation of leaders. Each summer, a group of motivated young men and women are hand-selected to intern in my Washington, D.C. and Arkansas offices to support the Third District. Interning on Capitol Hill or in the Natural State is an incredible experience. During their time with us, students are immersed in the legislative process, policies that affect Arkansans and citizens across the nation, constituent casework, and the interworking—and often complex nature—of government.

My team and I make it a priority to ensure this experience is one of growth and value, and not just another “routine” internship. What does that mean? Interns see firsthand what my staff and I do on a day-to-day basis, they learn how to research bills and help with casework, talk to constituents, participate in meetings and local events, and are mentored and gain knowledge they couldn’t receive in the classroom.

The focus is always helping them develop professional skills that will support their future career paths, wherever they may lead. It is an honor to have had these students intern in my office. These young leaders are the future of America and Arkansas, and I am very appreciative of their dedication to serving the Third District. I know they all have bright futures ahead of them!

I wanted to give them a chance to share a little about themselves and their work in their own words—so scroll below to read more!

Team Womack Summer Interns

Congressman Womack gives leadership advice to a group of summer interns.

Washington Office

Joel Cook is a student at Bishops University and a native of Ontario, Canada, though his mom resides in Northwest Arkansas. He is majoring in Political Studies and plays for the varsity rugby team.

Adam Fuqua is a student at the United States Military Academy at West Point and a native of Wildwood, Missouri. He is majoring in International Affairs and is a member of the Sprint Football team.

Claire Hollenbeck is a student at the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith and a native of Fort Smith. She is majoring in Political Science, with a minor in Business Administration and concentrations in International Business and Community Leadership. Claire was our John Paul Hammerschmidt (JPH) Fellow for 2021. The JPH program, named for former Arkansas Representative John Paul Hammerschmidt, recognizes highly-motivated college students with an interest in public service and the legislative process.

Will Litzinger is a student at the University of Arkansas - Fayetteville and a native of Fayetteville. He is double majoring in Accounting and Agriculture Economics.

Beckett McDowell is a student at the University of Saint Andrews in Scotland and a native of Bentonville. He is majoring in International Relations and Economics.

Jackson Thompson is a student at the University of Arkansas - Fayetteville and a native of Bentonville. He is double majoring in Finance and Political Science with a minor in Economics.

Mackenzie Shell is a student at Southern Methodist University and a native of Fort Smith. She is pursuing a double major in Accounting and Political Science with a minor in History.

Rogers District Office

Grace Hatfield is a student at the University of Arkansas - Fayetteville and a native of Little Rock. She is double majoring in Political Science and Criminology with a minor in Legal Studies.

Fort Smith District Office

Caroline Beland is a student at the University of Arkansas - Fayetteville and a native of Fort Smith. She is majoring in Supply Chain Logistics and Political Science with a minor in Business Analytics.

Emillie Burgess is a student at the University of Mississippi (“Ole Miss”) and a native of Fort Smith. She is majoring in Public Policy Leadership.

Grace Kindy is a student at the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith and a native of Fort Smith. She is majoring in Political Science with a minor in History.

Q&A

A group of summer interns on the Speaker's Balcony, arguably one of the best views in Washington.

Why did you apply for a congressional internship?

Washington Office

Joel Cook: “I applied for this Internship to improve my leadership skills, as well as learn from some of the best leaders in the world.”

Adam Fuqua: “I applied for an internship with Congressman Womack because I wanted to gain a greater understanding of how Congress functions. I knew that this internship would allow me to gain experiences and knowledge that I would be able to use during my future career in the Army and beyond.”

Claire Hollenbeck: “I applied for the JPH Fellowship because I wanted to be able to learn more about work done on Capitol Hill, but knew I still wanted to be connected to my hometown, district, and university.”

Will Litzinger: “One of the reasons I applied for an internship is my respect for Congressman Womack as a leader. I also wanted to gain experience in public service and serve the Third District.”

Beckett McDowell: “I applied to intern for Congressman Womack so I could better understand how government operates and give back to my community.”

Jackson Thompson: “Congressman Womack is the first person that has always come to mind when I think of public servants. I remember meeting him at an event when I was 10 years old and have lived in his district ever since. The Third District is diverse, but Congressman Womack's character seems to pull people together.”

Mackenzie Shell: “I applied for this internship to better understand what the foundation of government is and what it takes to be a part of a congressional office.”

Beckett McDowell and William Litzinger in Congressman Womack’s office.

Rogers District Office

Grace Hatfield: “I applied for an internship with Congressman Womack because I have always wanted to see and experience the behind-the-scenes work that goes into being on the congressional side of the government.”

Fort Smith District Office

Caroline Beland: “I have been infatuated with politics and public service for as long as I can remember. I have followed Congressman Womack since I was in high school and was eager to join his team.”

Emillie Burgess: “I’ve always been interested in working within government, and I felt this internship was the perfect way to start working in that direction. Because of this internship, I feel much more confident in my ability to succeed and excited about what the future holds.”

Grace Kindy: “I really wanted to get an up-close and personal view of how politics works in a congressional district office and gain experience and knowledge in an area related to my major.”

Mackenzie Shell of Fort Smith and Adam Fuqua of Wildwood, MO.

What has been your favorite part of your internship?

Washington Office

Joel Cook: “My favorite part of the internship was learning how leaders such as Congressman Womack navigate complex, multifaceted issues that we are currently experiencing.”

Adam Fuqua: “My favorite part of the internship was interacting with the staffers and other interns every day. They were all wonderful people to be around, and I learned a lot from them during my time in the office.”

Claire Hollenbeck: “My favorite part of being a fellow in Congressman Womack’s office was the different perspective and greater appreciation I have gained of Arkansas’s Third District. Not only did I receive course credit for my fellowship, but I also learned so much about how Washington D.C. works on Capitol Hill and in the city itself.”

Will Litzinger: “My favorite part about the internship has been gaining knowledge on so many different issues. Each day is filled with different tasks or activities.”

Beckett McDowell: “I’ve enjoyed learning more about the process through which bills are written, amended, and debated before we ever hear about them in the news.”

Jackson Thompson: “I would say that my favorite part about this internship is learning the interworking of how change is actually made here in D.C. Before I came, I knew textbook definitions. Nothing except this experience alone could have taught me how many people, hours, and work go into every step of the process.”

Mackenzie Shell: “My favorite part has been getting to run errands around Capitol Hill and having the opportunity to meet so many Congressmen and women.”

Interns in our district offices, like Grace H., assist our team with gathering information for critical casework issues and helping constituents.

Rogers District Office

Grace Hatfield: “My favorite part of this internship has been all the people that I have been able to help through this experience. Listening to and helping the constituents has allowed me to gain a better insight into the direct impact that our congressional leaders make on their community.”

Fort Smith District Office

Caroline Beland: “Getting to connect with constituents and helping resolve their various predicaments has been extremely rewarding. I have enjoyed being a small part of an amazing team.”

Emillie Burgess: “My favorite part of interning for Congressman Womack has been how much I’ve been poured into by my supervisors. I am encouraged to answer questions on the phone, to ask questions while I’m completing my work, to sit in on calls, and really understand the importance of the office. I felt challenged and supported.”

Grace Kindy: “I have absolutely loved being able to speak to constituents and help them resolve issues. This has been a great opportunity to help better people’s lives in my community, and I have loved being a part of such a great congressional team!”

Grace Kindy and Caroline Beland, both of Fort Smith.

How can being an intern in a congressional office make a difference?

Washington Office

Joel Cook: “You make a difference as an intern if you keep the value of ‘service’ in mind. It is not about climbing any political ladder; it is about how you can serve people.”

Adam Fuqua: “By being an intern in Washington D.C., you are able to help the office run smoothly while also assisting constituents in the district. You are able to see firsthand how policymaking can influence constituents, while simultaneously working on legislation that will further impact constituents.”

Claire Hollenbeck: “I feel that you can make a difference by interning in Washington D.C. by the work you are able to do to help the Congressman succeed. In Congressman Womack’s office, the mentality is a team mentality because when Congressman Womack succeeds, the Third District succeeds. I am proud to be a part of Team Womack!”

Will Litzinger: “Being an intern is a big role in Congressman Womack’s office. The staff depends on you for different roles and expects you to accomplish those. You really feel like you are a part of Team Womack!”

Beckett McDowell: “We make sure that the voice of the constituent is heard and that their concerns and ideas are considered when the Congressman and his staff are making important decisions.”

Jackson Thompson: “You get to spend time with and support people that make this city move. From Congressman Womack himself to interns I've met from across the country, I have never been surrounded by individuals with such a broad range of backgrounds and skills. We all share that drive to thrive in our careers.”

Mackenzie Shell: “As an intern, we help ensure that everything is in order so the office can run smoothly. A large part of our job is to make the staff's life a little easier so that all of their work can get done.”

Interns take a selfie while touring the Capitol grounds.

Rogers District Office

Grace Hatfield: “I believe that my work as an intern in the District office makes a huge impact on the workload of others in the office, as well as on the constituents that are calling for help. My work allows those in the office to complete the tasks that they need to complete, as well as be able to interact and assist constituents with their needs whatever they may be.”

Fort Smith District Office

Caroline Beland: “As interns, we get to witness firsthand the impact congressional offices have in the community. Getting to serve constituents is gratifying work that truly makes a difference.”

Emillie Burgess: “You make a difference in a lot of small ways. While I’m not the one speaking on the House floor, I do get to help work on cases that directly influence the lives of those around me. I can be a kind and helpful voice to constituents who are dealing with serious issues that the office then helps solve.”

Grace Kindy: “As a district intern, I feel like I have been able to make a big difference in the smallest and simplest way. Just listening and being helpful in sympathy to people’s needs, while making them feel fully seen and heard, really makes a huge difference in itself.”

Joel Cook of Ontario and Jackson Thompson of Bentonville.

What advice would you give to those who are interested in pursuing a congressional internship?

Washington Office

Joel Cook: “Humility is key to being successful in this internship. It is essential that you work to help those around you so the office may perform its duties at the highest capacity.”

Adam Fuqua: “If you are interested in a congressional internship, do everything you can to get accepted. The experience is one of a kind, and you will not regret it. While you are here, do not be afraid to ask questions, and try to see and do as much as you can!”

Claire Hollenbeck: “Apply! My congressional internship has helped me grow in ways I did not even know that I needed. I have become so much more confident in myself, what I am doing, and where I am going!”

Will Litzinger: “It is an opportunity of a lifetime! Being on the front lines of our government gives you a completely new appreciation for our leaders. No matter what you are studying, it is a great experience.”

Beckett McDowell: “This internship provides a window into Capitol Hill that very few people get to experience in their lifetime, and you should take every opportunity you have while you’re here.”

Jackson Thompson: “If you are someone who has always been interested in the world of politics but feel as if you don't know enough about the House or Senate or the government in general, you should apply. I learned more about what goes on in D.C. in six weeks than the past 15 years at school. It's a fast-paced environment, and if you are able to take home a fraction of the knowledge that the staffers possess, it will be worth your time.”

Mackenzie Shell: “If you are even slightly interested, apply! The possibilities that you will experience through this internship are unlike any others in most other jobs. Being here is the best way to understand how our government works, while also spending time in such a great city.”

Congressman Womack introduces interns to Rep. Hal Rogers (KY-5).

Rogers District Office

Grace Hatfield: “I would advise them to do it. No matter how intimidating or scary it seems, putting yourself out there is the first step to learning and experiencing things that you never would have thought about.”

Fort Smith District Office

Caroline Beland: “Don’t be afraid to apply. As young people, we are lucky to have this amazing opportunity to learn about the inner workings of the House while serving constituents of our district through casework. It is truly a rewarding experience.”

Emillie Burgess: “Go for it! Life is too short to question whether you are good enough. This internship has been an outlet of growth for me in so many ways, and I almost didn’t apply because I thought I was too young. If you get the privilege of working in one of the offices, take advantage! Ask questions and engage in everything. It’s incredible how much you can learn.”

Grace Kindy: “Absolutely apply for this opportunity. It has allowed me to learn and see so much and has truly been the best decision I could have made. Being able to make such a positive impact on your community, while learning about the work a Congressman does, is so rewarding and is the best experience.”

Grace Hatfield of Little Rock and Emillie Burgess of Fort Smith. 

What is an experience you gained that was unique to D.C. or Arkansas?

Washington Office

Joel Cook: “Interning in D.C. enabled me to interact with some of the most intelligent people in America that are dedicated to their work.”

Adam Fuqua: “Interning in Washington allowed me to work in a place with such amazing people and history. The city is beautiful, and walking through the mall to work every day never gets old.”

Claire Hollenbeck: “Interning in Washington D.C. gave me an opportunity to make new relationships and connections. From friendships to professional relationships, I have met some of the most amazing people!”

Will Litzinger: “Living in D.C. allowed me to meet new people and see new places!”

Beckett McDowell: “D.C. is the center of the world in many aspects, and it’s amazing getting to see all the historical sites that played host to the founding of our nation.”

Jackson Thompson: “Interning on the Hill has been a goal of mine since before I graduated high school. Working in the Rayburn House Office Building has been a surreal experience. Walking to work, getting to know this incredible staff, using the Metro, or getting lost in tunnels that connect the buildings to the Capitol are all D.C.-specific experiences I could have never gotten at home.”

Mackenzie Shell: “I have loved exploring the monuments and local D.C. restaurants here with all of my new friends. The people that I have met here from all over have made the time well worth it.”

Congressman Womack talks about some of the history of the Capitol.

Rogers District Office

Grace Hatfield: “Interning in Arkansas enabled me to have encounters with all the constituents who walk into the office. Experiencing the gratefulness these constituents have for our work and witnessing firsthand the direct impact that our job has on these individuals is so rewarding.”

Fort Smith District Office

Caroline Beland: "Interning in a district office gave me the unique opportunity to witness the gratitude constituents have when we listen and help resolve their issues. I have sharpened valuable skills under the guidance of the caseworker and field representative in our office, and I am eager to carry these skills into professional and personal life."

Emillie Burgess: “Interning in Arkansas gave me the ability to work an internship I’m passionate about, while also being near my family for the summer. I don’t get to spend much time with them while I’m away for school, so being able to live at home while also working towards my goals has been an incredible experience.”

Grace Kindy: “An experience I gained that was unique to the Fort Smith, AR office was getting to see Congressman Womack discuss the new fighter jets coming to our local Air Force Base. I really enjoyed getting to attend the Aerospace Conference with Congressman Womack and his D.C. team and see their work on such an exciting addition to our community."

Beckett McDowell of Bentonville and William Litzinger of Fayetteville.

What was your biggest takeaway from this internship?

Washington Office

Joel Cook: “My biggest takeaway from this internship is to make sure I create quality work in everything I do. I also learned how to compile large amounts of information and synthesize it into clear concise points.”

Adam Fuqua: “My biggest takeaway from the internship is how much work and effort goes into running a congressional office. Everyone at the office is incredibly professional and very good at their jobs, which allows the office to run so smoothly.”

Claire Hollenbeck: "My biggest takeaways from this internship include being confident in who you are and what you are doing. Be willing to apologize when you make a mistake, but do not sell yourself short in doing so. Doing the right thing is not always simple, but it is always the best thing to do!”

Will Litzinger: “My biggest takeaway from the internship is seeing firsthand interactions between constituents and members of Congressman Womack’s office. It is awesome watching people serve those that they represent.”

Beckett McDowell: “The United States is truly a special nation. I’ve had the chance to meet people from countries around the world and none are as passionate of citizens as Americans are.”

Jackson Thompson: “Something I will leave D.C. with that I didn’t arrive with is my viewpoint of cruciality of connections. I look forward to expanding my network here in Washington, as well as wherever life takes me next.”

Mackenzie Shell: “I am leaving this internship with a higher respect for those in Congress and their work here. I can also take away a greater interest in our country's current events and how these affect us back in Arkansas.”

Congressman Womack stands with interns from his office and one from Rep. Westerman's office. They hail from Fayetteville, Bentonville, and Farmington.

Rogers District Office

Grace Hatfield: “My biggest takeaway from this internship is to be patient and kind with every person you meet. Sometimes just listening to a constituent’s problems and understanding their issues can have a huge influence over someone’s day. You never know what is really happening behind the phone.”

Fort Smith District Office

Caroline Beland: “This internship has only further solidified my passion for politics and public service. It has shown me all the possible ways to get connected in my community while making a positive impact.”

Emillie Burgess: “My biggest takeaway from this internship is how every single person can make the world a better place. Congressman Womack makes large-scale change daily through policies in the House that improve the lives of Arkansans as well as U.S. citizens. On top of that, representatives in the district office can help a veteran get their social security benefits or help a cancer patient file for disability. While these acts may not change the world, it does change the world for so many individuals. I feel proud to work in an office that helps others on a daily basis.”

Grace Kindy: “My biggest takeaway is all of my newfound knowledge. I have been able to gain new skills in this field and have loved being able to take away valuable work experience in the office.”

Claire Hollenbeck of Fort Smith was our 2021 John Paul Hammerschmidt Fellow.

How will you use the skills you have learned from this internship to reach your future goals?

Washington Office

Joel Cook: “I will use the skills I acquired in D.C. to help facilitate stronger relationships and produce work that will help people.”

Adam Fuqua: “This internship taught me multiple skills, such as the importance of networking and multitasking. These skills will be essential in my future careers, both in the Army and after.”

Claire Hollenbeck: “I feel like I have had the opportunity to learn so much here in Washington D.C. that will help me reach my future goals, most notably with my communication skills.”

Will Litzinger: “Working in a congressional internship can help you in many ways, including your communication, problem-solving, and time management skills. These are all skills you will need in your life, no matter your career path.”

Beckett McDowell: “I’ve gained a great deal of knowledge on how Capitol Hill operates. I hope to reapply those skills in future work back on the Hill in the years to come.”

Jackson Thompson: “This job completely updated my viewpoint of attention to detail. The fine print is small, and this job taught me that asking questions is more important than being 99% confident. Accuracy is imperative”

Mackenzie Shell: “The greatest skills that I can take away from this job are communication and networking. No matter what career field I pursue, these will always be important, and here I have been able to see firsthand how essential they are to succeed within an office.”

The star in the center of the floor of the Capitol's "Crypt" denotes the point from which the streets in Washington are laid out and numbered.

Rogers District Office

Grace Hatfield: “I have learned so much from this internship that will be extremely beneficial towards all my future goals. From basic office organizational skills to helping constituents solve their federal agency issues, I feel more prepared for any type of future career I may pursue.”

Fort Smith District Office

Caroline Beland: “I have been able to develop effective communication skills, organize my priorities, and gain a new level of respect for congressional offices. I hope to further expand my knowledge and carry these skills into my future endeavors.”

Emillie Burgess: “I believe the most important aspect of this job is working with and listening to the concerns of constituents. Helping and understanding others is an important skill that I will take with me in each aspect of my life- from college organizations to my future career.”

Grace Kindy: “Being able to further develop communication skills has been such a huge point regarding my future career goals. Speaking with both constituents of all backgrounds and opinions has really pushed me to new limits. I am grateful for this personal growth, as it will truly better my future.”

Congressman Womack walks with interns outside of the Rayburn and Longworth buildings. 

With Labor Day marking the ceremonial end of summer - and the new school semester already in full swing - I want to extend my gratitude and thanks to all of our 2021 summer congressional interns. They all excelled at working in a fast-paced environment and exemplified a commitment to serving their community. Those interested in learning about future internship opportunities can contact my Washington office at (202) 225-4301, Rogers office at (479) 464-0446, or Fort Smith office at (479) 424-1146.

A few notes from around AR-3 this week:

Economic Development Projects Discussion in Berryville – I joined Berryville Mayor Tim McKinney and Chamber President Dr. Dean Lee to discuss economic development and updates on local projects, including the new industrial park and library, vaccination rates, and updates from D.C.

Congressman Womack speaks with Berryville leaders. 

Retreat at Sky Ridge – There isn’t a day that passes where one doesn’t hear a tragic story of a life seized by substance abuse. I visited the Retreat at Sky Ridge, an addiction treatment and wellness center in Eureka Springs, to learn more about their facility and programs to help those struggling. They provide evidence-based treatment programs for men and women seeking long-lasting recovery.

Congressman Womack learns more about addiction treatment programs provided by the Retreat of Sky Ridge in Eureka Springs. 

NWA Human Resources Association (NOARK) – I appreciated sitting down with NOARK members in my Rogers office to talk about human resources, immigration policies, hiring issues, and the training of future HR providers.

Congressman Womack with NOARK members. 

EFOFEX Mask Manufacturing – I toured EFOFEX, a company in Rogers that is manufacturing disposable face masks. They have more than 20 full-time employees and can produce up to 750,000 masks daily. I got a direct look at production and learned more about their future plans to expand their team and capacity.

Congressman Womack with the EFOFEX team. 

NWA Economic Development District Conference – I spoke at the NWA Economic Development District Conference about my experiences as a Mayor and Congressman, the entrepreneurial spirit of Arkansas, growth of our region, and importance of strategic infrastructure investment. The Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport, Pinnacle Complex, interstate development – and if we want to look even further back - the Beaver Lake Watershed - are all examples of innovative ideas that have had a profound impact on our community.

Congressman Womack at the NWA Economic Development District Conference.

Hytrol Conveyor Company – I visited Hytrol, which designs and produces advanced conveyor systems, to meet with team members, see the manufacturing floor and processes, and talk about business development, workforce training, tariffs, and supply chain challenges. We also discussed their big news from yesterday, where they announced the plant will expand its product line. The decision is expected to add about 100 local jobs!

Congressman Womack tours Hytrol's manufacturing floor.

Van Buren Chamber Roundtable – I joined Van Buren Chamber of Commerce members for a roundtable discussion on business issues, pending infrastructure proposals in Congress, local efforts to enhance the region’s ability to recruit businesses, retain and expand current businesses, and support entrepreneurship.

Congressman Womack speaks to Van Buren Chamber members. 

Crawford County Adult Education Center – I toured the new Crawford County Adult Education Center, which opened its doors this summer. The facility is focused on providing ongoing learning opportunities and preparing individuals for career advancement, post-secondary education, technological innovation, and life enrichment.

Congressman Womack visits the Crawford County Adult Education Center.

Wishing you a great weekend ahead! Remember to keep an eye on my website or check out my Twitter and Instagram pages to stay up-to-date with the latest news from the Third District and Washington.