Institute of Politics

Overview of Organization: Current is an independent nonprofit water innovation hub, founded in Chicago in 2016, with a mission to grow a circular blue economy, accelerate water innovation, and solve pressing water challenges. Current collaborates with industry, innovators, communities, nonprofits and governments to advance innovative water technologies and policies that boost our economy while protecting our water resources. To date, Current has helped raise over $76.4M for regional water innovation and economic development, supported 19 R&D projects, 15 pilots, and 110+ startups, and engaged more than 55,000 people through events and convenings. Learn more: currentwater.org

Internship Summary: Current is seeking a Communications Intern to support strategic communications and content development for the NSF Great Lakes RENEW Engine. This role contributes to the creation of content and collateral across multiple programs, platforms, and audiences, while supporting execution of Current’s broader communications strategy. The Communications Intern will gain hands-on experience translating complex regional, economic, and policy issues into clear and engaging communications. The intern may also support additional Current programs and events as needed.

Responsibilities:

• Draft briefings and blog content on relevant policy issues
• Identify opportunities for thought leadership through events and convenings
• Support the policy team in translating complex topics into one-page educational briefs
• Create engaging social media content (captions and visuals) to promote Current’s initiatives and key policy priorities
• Assist with drafting and distributing marketing and communications emails

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience using social media platforms including Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and Twitter/X
• Familiarity with design tools such as Canva or Adobe Creative Suite
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Familiarity with Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, and virtual collaboration tools such as Zoom and Slack

Eligibility Availability to work both remotely and in person at Current’s Chicago office (111 N. Canal St, Chicago, IL) Authorization to work in the United States (Current does not offer visa sponsorship at this time)

About the Supervisor: Haylee Gemeiner is the Senior Communications Manager at Current and the NSF Great Lakes RENEW Engine, where she leads strategic communications, marketing, and events. She oversees content, media, and overall creative direction and messaging, ensuring communications advance organizational goals and impact, while supporting the visibility, reach, and growth of the Engine’s water innovation ecosystem. Previously, Haylee Gemeiner Haylee was Marketing and Events Associate at mHUB, boosting audience engagement and regional brand visibility, and Program Manager for the Savannah Book Festival, managing logistics and programming. She holds a BFA in Writing from the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Employer Modality Notes: This is a Chicago-based internship with a hybrid schedule. The Current team typically works in the office Tuesday through Thursday and remotely on Mondays and Fridays. Interns are ideally in the office at least two in-office days per week, as their schedule allows. Current’s office is located at 111 N. Canal St, Chicago, IL, and is accessible via multiple bus and train routes from Hyde Park.

Start and End Date: Summer internships run from June 1 through September 26. Exact start and end dates will be determined during the interview process.

Required Materials:

• Resume
• Cover letter