Political Science Student Wins Public Policy Fellowship
JONESBORO – Rashad Kirksey, a junior political science major at Arkansas State University, has been named a Public Policy and International Affairs Program (PPIA) Fellow for summer 2020.
Kirksey will be studying at the University of California-Berkeley’s Goldman School of Public Policy with a cohort of fellows from across the country. PPIA promotes the inclusion and full participation of underrepresented groups in public service.
“Excited is an understatement to express the joy that I have experienced by receiving this fellowship," Kirksey said. "Through this wonderful opportunity, I can capitalize on my interpersonal skills to network in my future field of work, as well as learn in-depth fundamental basics and advanced skills needed to prosper in law school and my career as a whole."
A graduate of The Academies at Jonesboro High School, Kirksey, 21, is pursuing a pre-law emphasis. He serves as president pro tempore for the Student Government Association and is an A-State Chancellor's Ambassador.
"I am happy to hear that the PPIA Program has recognized Rashad’s academic excellence," commented Dr. Hans Hacker, associate professor of political science. "Rashad has made impressive contributions in our political science and pre-law courses. Receiving the PPIA fellowship underscores not only Rashad’s dedication, but also how seriously our students take academic achievement at Arkansas State University."
Kirksey's other campus organizations include the Student Philanthropy Council, Student Activities Board, Black Student Association, and Brother 2 Brother. He also performs with the Concert Choir and Male Chorus. After graduation, Kirksey plans to attend law school and continue to study public policy with a long-term goal of becoming a Supreme Court justice.
His parents are Steven and Felicia Kirksey of Jonesboro.
# # #
