First-year law student Michaela Parks has been selected for the Udall Foundation’s U.S. Congressional Internship Program from May 25 to July 30 in Washington, D.C.

The Native American Congressional Internship Program offers Native American and Alaska Native students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with the federal legislative process to understand first-hand the government-to-government relationship between tribes and the federal government. The internship is funded by the Native Nations Institute for Leadership, Management, and Policy.

The internship program gives students access to a network of Native American professionals and alumni who work on behalf of tribal nations. Interns also receive housing, a living allowance, transportation to and from Washington, DC, and a school allowance of $1,200.

“I am extremely honored and grateful to have been selected for this internship and delighted to have the opportunity to learn more about tribal law and politics this summer from government officials, organizations and expert professionals in the domain,” Parks said. “My passion lies in maintaining the sovereignty and prosperity of Indian Country, so I look forward to taking the knowledge I have gained from this internship and applying it to the issues facing Indian Country. .”

Parks is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and has always been very aware of the importance of her tribal heritage. In law school, she reactivated herself and is the current president of the Native American Law Students Association.

Parks is the recipient of the Cherokee Nation Graduate Scholarship, the U of A Law School Dean’s Scholarship, and the Razorback Award Scholarship. She is also a member of the Student Bar Association and the Women’s Law Student Association.

“Michaela is an extremely dedicated student and a talented legal researcher and writer,” said Professor Amanda Hurst. “I am so inspired by her commitment to connecting her legacy to her practice of law and thrilled to see her receive this tremendous honor and opportunity to achieve this goal.”

The Udall Internship honors the legacy of Morris Udall and Stewart Udall, whose careers had a significant impact on American Indian self-reliance and health care, as well as the management of public lands and natural resources.

About the School of Law: The law school offers a competitive JD as well as an advanced LL.M. curriculum, which are taught by nationally recognized faculty. The school offers unique opportunities for students to participate in pro bono work, internships, live client clinics, competitions, and food and agriculture initiatives. The school strives to identify, discuss and challenge issues of race, color, ethnicity and the impacts they have on students, faculty and staff members with the aim of create a diverse, inclusive and equitable community. From the admission of the six pioneers who were the first African-American students to attend law school in the South without a court order, to the governors, judges, prosecutors and graduate professors who became President of the United States and Secretary of State, Law The school has a rich history and culture. Follow us on @uarklaw.