About
Leonard D. Schaeffer established the Schaeffer Fellows in Government Service program in 2015, inspired by his experience as an undergraduate congressional intern. Today, the program supports 50 undergraduate students from five universities in government internships each summer. It is a flagship program of the USC Schaeffer Institute for Public Policy and Government Service, which develops evidence-based solutions to address the nation’s most pressing policy issues and supports students in becoming involved citizens.
Our Mission
The Leonard D. Schaeffer Fellows in Government Service program funds government internships, provides professional development, and fosters mentorship for undergraduate students with exceptional potential. Schaeffer Fellows gain experience-based knowledge of government operations, a deeper understanding of the impact of public service, and the skills and motivation to join the next generation of civic leaders.
Key Themes
The Schaeffer Fellows program is grounded in the following four key themes. These themes are explored through a variety of sessions throughout the summer and Schaeffer Fellows Resource Guide.
Reflecting on Core Values
Exploring Leadership Lessons
Collaborating and Networking
Exploring Transferable Skills
A Cohort Experience
The Schaeffer Fellows program supports a distinguished cohort of 50 undergraduate students each year, selected from five universities: Harvard University; Princeton University; the University of California, Berkeley; the University of Southern California; and the University of Virginia.
Schaeffer Fellows come from different backgrounds, political perspectives, and academic disciplines. During the ten-week, full-time government internship, Fellows:
- interact with government officials and constituents
- track legislation
- conduct research
- draft policy memos and constituent letters
- attend meetings, hearings, and events
- support program development and implementation
- contribute to daily office operations
- develop lasting professional networks with government officials and other interns
Meet Our Team
Erica Lovano McCann, Ed.D., Executive Director
Dr. Erica Lovano McCann partnered with Leonard Schaeffer to establish the Schaeffer Fellows in Government Service program at the University of Southern California in 2015 and subsequently led its expansion to additional partner universities. As Executive Director, she advances the program’s strategic priorities, oversees the design and implementation of all programming, and ensures a consistent and high-quality experience for Fellows.
Lovano McCann works closely with the Schaeffer Fellows Advisory Board to carry forward the program’s long-term mission and aspirations. Under her leadership, the program has strengthened institutional collaboration and cultivated a vibrant nationwide network of alumni.
Willa Erickson, M.Ed., Assistant Director
Willa Erickson joined the Schaeffer Fellows program in 2019 and has since played a central role in strengthening its visibility and operations. As Assistant Director, she coordinates national communications, supports programming for Fellows and alumni, and facilitates assessment and reporting to demonstrate program impact.
Based at the University of Southern California, Erickson also manages USC’s annual selection and internship placement process, collaborating with government offices and agencies to secure meaningful internships opportunities and pairing Fellows with supportive alumni mentors.
Contact us
Our staff is available to answer questions about the Schaeffer Fellows program, partnerships, and events.