Political science major selected as Herndon Fellow

ISSUED: 25 November 2024
MEDIA CONTACT: Hans Fogle

SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV - Shepherd University junior political science major Josiah Wink, Inwood, West Virginia, has been selected for the Judith A. Herndon Fellowship.

Wink is one of only 10 West Virginia students to be awarded this prestigious fellowship.

The Herndon Fellows are invited to Charleston, West Virginia, to participate in the 60-day legislative session, where they will assist a legislator from the West Virginia Senate or House of Delegates, fulfilling intern-level responsibilities and performing research.

During this fellowship, the participants will experience the legislative process first-hand, learning about politics, research, and the bill drafting process.

Wink said he is grateful for this recognition and looks forward to seeing where this opportunity will take him.

"I feel honored to have been named a Herndon Fellow," he said. "I feel that this experience is going to grant me valuable skills that will highlight my future career. I want to thank Dr. Sam Greene, Dr. Stephanie Slocum-Schaffer, and Dr. Aart Holtslag, as well as my advisors with the Stubblefield Institute for helping make this opportunity possible."

Throughout the Fall 2024 semester, Wink has interned for the Stubblefield Institute for Civil Political Communications at Shepherd.

"His dedication, professionalism, and attention to detail have greatly contributed to the success of our events," said Alison Mee, communications and events manager for the Stubblefield Institute. "His enthusiasm for public service and commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue has been an important part of the behind-the-scenes support of this fall semester."

The West Virginia Legislature awards the Judith A. Herndon Fellowship to undergraduate students in the state who have completed political science or public affairs experience and have earned 60 undergraduate hours with a 3.0 GPA or higher.

Fellows are determined through a competitive application and interview process.

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