Emma R. Johnson is the first WSU student to become a Udall Native American Congressional intern and has also been selected to become an intern for Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV).
Johnson, a senior majoring in cultural anthropology, is also a member of the Cowlitz Indian tribe, said she began the Udall application process in October 2018 and submitted it in January 2019.
Johnson said the Udall Foundation awards scholarships according to three different categories: environmental, tribal policy and Native American healthcare.
As a scholarship winner, Johnson was required to attend a four-day conference with other Udall scholars. During the conference, Johnson learned about congressional internships.
After being chosen as one of the finalists, the Udall Foundation and Sen. Cortez Masto’s staff interviewed Johnson, she said.
She said Sen. Cortez Masto is on the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, as well as the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, which are two of Johnson’s interests.
Johnson said she will be working in Sen. Cortez Masto’s office, and her responsibilities as an intern will include giving tours of the capital and speaking with constituents.
“I’ll be given portfolios on Indian Affairs and Energy and Natural Resources, so I can work with what I’m interested in,” she said. “I will also get the bigger picture of everything that goes on in her office.”
Find out more