Indiana – From shaping national security strategies to influencing health policy, students from Indiana University’s Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs are making an impact in the nation’s capital. Through the Washington Leadership Program and the D.C. Accelerator program, these students are gaining hands-on experience that is preparing them to become future leaders in public service.
These programs, designed for both undergraduate and graduate students, provide an opportunity to work alongside policymakers, security experts, and researchers while receiving guidance from experienced professionals in Washington, D.C. Whether contributing to major national security efforts or analyzing Medicaid policies, IU students are proving that they have the drive and skills to influence real change.
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Strengthening National Security for a Historic Event
One of the students who took full advantage of this opportunity is Julia Hyde, a junior studying public policy and public safety. Hyde participated in the Washington Leadership Program, where she interned with the D.C. Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency. Her work played a key role in planning security measures for the presidential inauguration, a high-profile event requiring extensive coordination between local and federal agencies.
Hyde’s responsibilities included developing security plans and ensuring that multiple agencies could communicate effectively in case of an emergency. She was involved in crafting primary, ultimate, contingent, and emergency plans to guarantee seamless cooperation between departments. Her role allowed her to attend key meetings with agencies such as the Pentagon and the D.C. police, further expanding her understanding of crisis response and security operations.
Beyond her work on the inauguration, Hyde contributed to the first district-wide Unmanned Aircraft Systems Program and assisted in responding to a gas explosion that displaced 100 people. These experiences gave her valuable exposure to public safety challenges and reinforced her passion for serving the community.
Hyde’s journey to IU Indianapolis was not a straight path. Born and raised in Indiana, she initially joined the Army National Guard, specializing in aviation. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she was part of the Quick Reaction Force team, where she distributed personal protective equipment to election sites and helped track COVID-19 tests in nursing facilities. After working various jobs, she realized her calling was in public service and enrolled at IU to pursue her degree.
“The Washington Leadership Program provides incredible opportunities for students to work, learn and live in our nation’s capital,” said O’Neill Director of Career Services Stacy Lozer. “In college, I interned on the Hill, which led to a career focused on service. I love helping students make those connections so they can grow their careers.”
Following her experience in Washington, Hyde returned to Indianapolis, where she now works as a public safety coordinator for the Indiana State Fairgrounds. Reflecting on her time in D.C., she emphasized how transformative the program was for her.
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“Participating in the Washington Leadership Program is the best experience I’ve ever had,” Hyde said. “I’ve learned so much and gained experience in the real world. It was a turning point for me and solidified my passion for public service.”
Bridging the Gap Between Research and Policy
While some IU students are tackling national security challenges, others are focusing on improving public health policy. Madelyn Mustaine, a graduate student in policy analysis and health policy, is committed to ensuring individuals have access to the care they need. Her participation in the D.C. Accelerator program allowed her to work at the Evidence-Informed State Health Policy Institute within AcademyHealth, a nonprofit organization dedicated to using research to inform health policy decisions.
Through her internship, Mustaine researched state Medicaid policies, focusing on how different states use Medicaid to improve health outcomes. She also played a role in organizing a national conference that brought together health policy researchers and policymakers. One of her key contributions was analyzing focus group discussions with doulas to understand the challenges they face when working within the Medicaid system.
“The D.C. Accelerator program gives students a unique chance to work on high-impact projects, build their professional network and acquire skills that are invaluable in the public policy field,” Mustaine said.
Her work at AcademyHealth helped shape her career path, leading to a position at the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission. In this role, she will focus on how Medicaid can better provide long-term services and support to aging adults.
Mustaine’s instructor, Christina Motilall, is a fellow O’Neill alumna who now works at the Environmental Protection Agency. She understands the challenges students face when transitioning into public policy roles in Washington, D.C.
“Many of my fellow students and I were passionate about public service and getting our foot in the door on the East Coast,” Motilall said. “The D.C. programs offered by O’Neill serve as a springboard for students to grow their confidence and skills as leaders with dedicated support and training.
“Our federal, state and local governments all need your talent, passion and leadership. O’Neill’s D.C. programs are a great place to get started on that journey.”
Preparing Students for Future Leadership Roles
The success of Hyde and Mustaine is a testament to the strength of IU’s programs in Washington, D.C. By immersing students in the policymaking process, these initiatives equip them with the skills and experience necessary to make meaningful contributions in their fields.
The Washington Leadership Program and D.C. Accelerator program are more than just internships—they are opportunities for students to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world settings while forming connections with professionals in their industries. These experiences often lead directly to career opportunities, as demonstrated by Mustaine’s transition into Medicaid policy work and Hyde’s continued role in public safety.
For students considering a career in public service, the chance to engage with decision-makers in Washington, D.C., can be life-changing. The lessons learned in these programs extend far beyond their time in the nation’s capital, shaping their approach to leadership and problem-solving for years to come.
As more IU students take part in these transformative programs, they are proving that the next generation of public leaders is ready to rise to the challenge. Whether ensuring security at high-stakes events or improving health policies that impact millions, these students are making their mark—one step at a time.
