Jersey City, NJ – Saint Peter’s College alumnus Ismael Cid Martinez, a class of 2009 graduate, has been chosen for the 2010 – 2011 Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) Public Policy Fellowship Program in Washington, D.C. Martinez was one of 13 finalists selected from a pool of thousands of candidates nationwide for the program.
“I think of the opportunity with the CHCI as a testament to the very wise counsel and guidance I received as an undergraduate student at Saint Peter’s College,” noted Ismael. “I stand where I do thanks to Saint Peter’s professors and friends who guided me every step of the way. It’s now my turn to honor their efforts and to prove myself worthy of their many sacrifices.”
The CHCI Public Policy Fellowship Program offers Hispanics the opportunity to gain hands-on experience at the national level in the public policy area of their choice, such as international affairs, economic development, health and education policy, housing or local government. Its purpose is to enhance participants’ leadership abilities, strengthen their professional skills and produce more competent and competitive Latino professionals.
Ismael, who majored in political science and economics and had a minor in social justice while attending Saint Peter’s College, said, “I feel particularly proud to join a group of men and women who understand that better trained and more qualified professionals result in a more competitive and innovative 21st century America.”
Participants are placed in congressional offices, federal agencies, Washington-based media groups, corporate federal affairs offices, national nonprofit advocacy organizations, and government-related institutions to gain work experience. This intensive work experience is enhanced by weekly leadership training sessions that allow fellows to meet with national leaders and engage in substantive policy discussions. Participants also have the opportunity to engage in a group community service project, which allows them to identify areas of civic engagement and give back to the community.
In order to qualify for the CHCI Public Policy Program, applicants must have earned a bachelor’s degree within two years of the program start date, have obtained high academic achievement, and demonstrated leadership skills and potential for leadership growth as well as a commitment to public service-oriented activities.
The CHCI is one of the leading Hispanic nonprofit and nonpartisan 501(c) (3) organizations in the country. It was established in 1978 to help increase opportunities for Hispanics to participate in and contribute to the American policy-making process.
Saint Peter’s College, inspired by its Jesuit, Catholic identity, commitment to individual attention and grounding in the liberal arts, educates a diverse community of learners in undergraduate, graduate and professional programs to excel intellectually, lead ethically, serve compassionately and promote justice in our ever-changing urban and global environment.