“The internship program in Washington, D.C. is designed to expose students to our federal government and the legislative process that simply cannot be learned in a classroom,” said Ross.  “I am very proud of this proactive, eager group of interns who have already immersed themselves into the hard work and long hours that takes place in our nation’s capital.  Congressional internships provide a unique setting for student leaders to not only understand the importance of public service, but also to work on behalf of the people of Arkansas’s Fourth Congressional District.  I am confident this internship experience will be very rewarding, and the students will be successful in all their future endeavors.” 

Delcenia Collins, a Pine Bluff native, is a senior at Mississippi State University, pursing a bachelor’s degree in English.  Delcenia is a student recruiter, president of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, and active in the Student Association and Alpha Kappa Alpha, Inc. Sorority.  Delcenia is the daughter of Lazenie and Bennie Collins and plans to pursue a Master’s Degree in Public Policy and Public Administration. 

Valerie Hendrix hails from Antoine, Arkansas and is a senior at Harding University.  Valerie plans to graduate in May 2006 with a degree in Public Relations, and her activities include writing for Harding’s student Newspaper, The Bison, and yearbook, The Petit Jean.  Valerie is the daughter of Darwin and Beth Hendrix. 

C.J. Hunt, son of Jeff and Janice Hunt, is from Hot Springs Village and will attend the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in the fall.  A recent graduate of Jessieville High School, C.J. was involved in Environmental and Spatial Technologies and Future Business Leaders of America.  Additionally, he helped charter the Jessieville chapter of Young Democrats.  

Information on Congressman Ross’s internship program is available at www.house.gov/ross or by calling (800) 223-2220.