Student interns have long played an essential role in almost every congressional office and have benefited from the experience. Now, thanks to the team effort of the U.S. Congress and Virginia’s George Mason University (GMU), the Congressional Internship Program for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (CIPIID) extends this unique Hill experience to some students who otherwise would not likely have the opportunity.
Initially launched in 2010 through the coordinated efforts of Congressman Gregg Harper (MS-3), the Committee on House Administration (CHA), and GMU’s LIFE Program, CIPIID has expanded to Senate and committee offices
According to Harper, “The Congressional Internship Program for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities was a similar concept to an internship program that I began in my law practice back home in Mississippi before coming to Washington, D.C. The program fosters independence and teaches interns workplace skills that can translate to permanent employment. Perhaps more importantly, the program demonstrates what people with disabilities are capable of achieving when given the opportunity. For some offices on the Hill, their intern is the first person they may have ever met with an intellectual disability. Being a part of this program has not only opened their minds, but their hearts as well. It’s very special to me to see these interns walking in the halls of the House office buildings, and to see them when they drop by my office just to say ‘hello.’ ”
South Carolina Senator Tim Scott’s experience with CIPIID interns has been a huge success. He commented, “We have been incredibly impressed with their work ethic and eagerness to learn, so much so that one of our interns has been hired as a part-time staff member.”
Congressman Eliot Engel (NY-16) would like to raise awareness about the program and encourage more organizations to participate: “The Program has been a great partner to me and my office, and has provided some truly excellent interns. The program has given both LIFE interns and office staff an opportunity to work with and learn from one another.”
