Institute of Politics

Overview of the Organization: The Coastal States Organization (CSO) is a nonpartisan nonprofit that represents the nation’s coastal states and territories on ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resources issues. Our members consist of Governor appointed delegates of the 34 states and territories with approved coastal zone management programs. CSO works at the nexus of coastal science research, policy and social science research, outreach, and decision-making — striving to provide coastal communities with tools to inform coastal management and to improve their capacity to understand, plan for, and respond to changing coasts now and into the future.

CSO plays a critical role ensuring state and territory interests are reflected in the development and implementation of national ocean and coastal policy. CSO does this through engagement with Congress to shape legislation and advance federal funding. CSO also works with federal agencies to influence the implementation of new and existing laws.

Internship Summary: The Coastal States Organization (CSO) is seeking an intern to work with our Legislative Director over summer 2025. The goal of the internship is for the Policy Intern to learn about the legislative process in Washington, D.C. while working with CSO to advance organizational objectives.

Responsibilities: Track the introduction of, and subsequent activity on, coastal management related legislation and maintain a database of this information. Assist in the analysis and development of policy positions on priority legislation; this may also lead to the development of support letters and materials for congressional hearings such as questions for the record. Work with the Director of Federal Affairs and CSO Members to identify opportunities for congressional briefings or site visits, help with the planning and logistics, invite Congressional staff, and support the successful execution of these events. Engage in the process of developing CSO’s Fiscal Year (FY)2027 appropriations requests.
Undertake a research project, such as developing a list of coastal policy champions over the past 100 years at the federal and state level, or another topic as agreed upon by intern and supervisor. Additional legislative and policy tasks as they arise. The intern may also be tasked with research and content development for organizational comments on proposed federal agency regulations.

Qualifications: An interest in the legislative process Experience with or an interest in learning about environmental policy, coastal resource, and management issues The ability to work independently and on tight deadlines Strong interpersonal skills Strong organizational skills

About the Supervisor: The intern’s direct supervisor will be Rebecca Dennis, CSO’s Federal Affairs Director; the position will also work with Derek Brockbank, CSO’s Executive Director (UChicago BA’03).

Modality Notes: This summer internship will be in-person in Washington, D.C. at the CSO offices 3 days a week. The start and end date can be flexible to start after the Spring semester ends and to end prior to the beginning of the Fall semester.

Start and End Date: Summer internships will take place from June 9 to September 19, with specific dates to be determined by the employer partner and intern during the interview process.