Hinckley Institute of Politics

Hinckley Institute of Politics Furthering civic engagement through non-partisan student internships, forums, events, and classes at the University of Utah.

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Why does Nevaeh recommend a Hinckley Legislative Internship? 🏛️Nevaeh is a Political Science major with minors in Sociol...
09/15/2026

Why does Nevaeh recommend a Hinckley Legislative Internship? 🏛️
Nevaeh is a Political Science major with minors in Sociology and African American Studies. She participated in a legislative internship through the Hinckley Institute last spring.

“The experience is one I couldn’t be more grateful for. One of the biggest things I took away is that understanding the unique language of the legislative session is a superpower, no matter who you are. It opens doors professionally, but it also gives you the ability to help others understand the process of policy making and become more civically engaged in the issues that affect their communities.”

And her biggest takeaway?
“The program offers a once-in-a-lifetime view of the way our state government functions and how policy affects everyone and everything.”

Spring 2027 Legislative Internship applications are due today, September 15!
Have questions or need a little more time?
Please email [email protected]
👉 Learn more and apply through the link in our bio.

September Alumni Spotlight: Erin Kucic 🌟 Erin graduated in 2010 with bachelor's degrees in Political Science and Strateg...
09/14/2026

September Alumni Spotlight: Erin Kucic 🌟

Erin graduated in 2010 with bachelor's degrees in Political Science and Strategic Communication. Her college career serves as an inspiration for future students looking to maximize their college experience. During her time at the University, she participated in three Hinckley internships that took her from local political campaigns in Salt Lake City to Washington, D.C., and ultimately to Chiang Mai, Thailand working with the Burma Volunteer Project. 

 Catching up with Erin today as she reflects on her career trajectory:

"Since graduating, I’ve built a career in public service spanning education, workforce development, and higher education. I began with Teach For America, where I was a corps member and K-5 special education teacher in South Carolina. I later earned my Master of Science in Public Policy and Management (MSPPM) from Carnegie Mellon University where I strengthened my skills in data analysis and program management.

In roles with organizations like Partner4Work and Educational Data Systems, Inc., I managed large-scale workforce programs, partnered with employers and training providers, and helped connect individuals to career opportunities. Today, as an Academic Program Manager at CMU, I support the MSPPM program, working with students who are in the same position I once was and who are passionate about social impact, data analysis, and public service.

This role feels especially meaningful because it comes full circle. The opportunities I received through Hinckley helped launch my career, and now I have the privilege of creating similar experiences for students pursuing paths in public service. It’s incredibly rewarding to help lift up the next generation of leaders who will go on to make an impact in their communities and beyond."

We're so proud of Erin and the many ways she is helping the next generation succeed!

The Hinckley Institute team felt truly lucky to host author McKay Coppins with the The University of Utah. Drawing on hi...
09/11/2026

The Hinckley Institute team felt truly lucky to host author McKay Coppins with the The University of Utah. Drawing on his recent cover story for The Atlantic , "Sucker: My Year as a Degenerate Gambler,” Coppins discussed his personal experience with the world of sports betting and the broader implications for what he terms, "The Casinofication of America". Attendees leaned forward, listening intently as Coppins presented a deep dive into the rapid rise of online sports betting and what it reveals about sports, technology, politics, and American culture. It was a fascinating topic that will undoubtedly continue to be debated across the country.
 
Thank you to everyone who helped us produce this great event and sincerest thanks to McKay Coppins and team for your visit!


It was so fun to reconnect with U at our open house! Introducing students to the amazing internship opportunities availa...
09/03/2026

It was so fun to reconnect with U at our open house! Introducing students to the amazing internship opportunities available at the Hinckley Institute is such a fulfilling part of our mission.
A huge thank you to our crew of student helpers and Hinckley intern alumni who answered all the questions and shared their own experiences.
If you didn't get a chance to come by, or you have additional questions, please stop by our offices! Gardner Commons, room 2018. 


August alumni spotlight!Blake Hrubes graduated from the University of Utah in 2018 with a Bachelor of Science in Interna...
08/28/2026

August alumni spotlight!
Blake Hrubes graduated from the University of Utah in 2018 with a Bachelor of Science in International Studies. During his time as a student, he fully embraced the opportunities available to him and tackled impressive challenges.

Among his many successes, he completed a hinckley global internship with the Southern Institute of Social Sciences in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

He credits this experience as being transformative both personally and professionally. The cross-cultural communication, adaptability, and professional skills Hrubes developed through the Hinckley Institute continue to shape his work today.

Great job Blake! We are so proud of you!

Visit hinckley.utah.edu/alumni-spotlight to read more of his story and learn about some of our other fantastic alumni!


U Alumni

08/26/2026

We’re looking forward to another amazing academic year as students return to campus.
Join us Wednesday, Sept 2nd from 12pm - 2pm for our Student Open House. This is the best way for students to learn about what the Hinckley Institute has to offer and snag some free pizza. Come learn about potential internships, classes, forums, and the other fun events we host throughout the year. It’s never too late or too early to start adding great experiences to your resume and get more engaged on campus.



Hinckley Alumni Summer Spotlight:Thaiss Del Rio Sanchez was a stellar student who graduated with bachelor’s degrees in b...
08/25/2026

Hinckley Alumni Summer Spotlight:

Thaiss Del Rio Sanchez was a stellar student who graduated with bachelor’s degrees in both Sociology and Political Science as part of the class of 2022.

During her time at the University of Utah, she participated in multiple internships through the Hinckley Institute that helped define her professional path and affirm her commitment to community-centered leadership.

She excelled as a legislative intern in 2021, assisting Senator Escamilla as the Legislature navigated the pandemic and worked to keep the government running smoothly.

Today, Thaiss serves as Community Outreach Liaison for the PROG Foundation's Development Center in West Valley City.
Way to go Thaiss! We're so proud of your journey!



U Alumni

Welcome back to the U! As students are navigating their way across campus and planning the rest of their college careers...
08/24/2026

Welcome back to the U! As students are navigating their way across campus and planning the rest of their college careers, the Hinckley Institute's talented student teams are here to help! Our student staff are here to answer any and all internship questions from our front desk (1). Our team of ambassadors will be tabling and visiting classrooms to let students know about the amazing opportunities available at the Hinckley Institute (2). And the Andrew Goodman Foundation ambassadors are here to make sure every eligible student is registered to vote!(3)

Acclaimed journalist and author McKay Coppins visits the U! Join us for a special lunch event, Sept 10th, 12pm at Rice E...
08/21/2026

Acclaimed journalist and author McKay Coppins visits the U! Join us for a special lunch event, Sept 10th, 12pm at Rice Eccles Stadium. Coppins will discuss his recent story for The Atlantic, "Sucker: My Year as a Degenerate Gambler," an examination of the rise of online sports betting and what it reveals about sports, technology, politics, and American culture. Coppins is a staff writer at The Atlantic covering politics, religion, and national affairs, and a New York Times bestselling author. Don't miss this timely and thought-provoking conversation. Seats are limited, reserve yours today - https://shorturl.at/60eSA or visit link in bio.

A summer in Washington, D.C. is like no other! From the workplace to exploring the city together (and even catching a Na...
08/03/2026

A summer in Washington, D.C. is like no other! 
From the workplace to exploring the city together (and even catching a Nationals game ⚾️), our Hinckley interns are making the most of every opportunity. Along the way, they're gaining firsthand experience in public service, making professional connections, creating lasting friendships, and proudly representing the University of Utah.
Swipe through for a few of their favorite moments from the summer so far. ❤️
Ready to apply and make your semester unforgettable while taking advantage of automatic scholarship support? The priority deadline for spring 2027 is September 15th.
Visit Hinckley.utah.edu/DC to submit your application and discover how affordable your semester in DC can be!

Address

260 S. Central Campus Drive
Salt Lake City, UT
84112

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

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