“I realized that so much legislation at a state or local level is enacted because citizens brought their concerns to their elected officials.” 

Summer Responsibilities: Kelsea helped Senator McClellan’s constituents secure unemployment benefits from the Virginia Employment Commission, which was facing a record caseload due to the pandemic. In addition to working with other state agencies to address constituent issues, Kelsea conducted basic policy research for future legislation.

Background: STEM exposure and representation as well as energy policy are areas in which Kelsea works to improve for future generations. She believes science policy has a more direct influence and is the trajectory needed to implement these changes.