Two University of Dayton programs dedicated to developing the next generation of public servants will continue their work with continued financial support from the AES Ohio Foundation.

The Foundation is providing $25,000 each to the Statehouse Civic Scholars program, an eight-week summer residential internship opportunity in Columbus, Ohio, and DC Flyers, a similar program in the nation's capital. In addition, the Foundation donated $2,000 to the University's general fund.

The Statehouse Civic Scholars, has provided internships to 170 UD students, will celebrate its 15th anniversary this summer. More than half of Statehouse Civic Scholars program alumni have remained in the public service sector, including in roles in and related to state government, associations and nonprofits. Others have been involved in public service in the Dayton region through city government, the Dayton Chamber of Commerce and the Dayton Development Coalition. Some Statehouse Civic Scholars alumni have moved to Washington, D.C. to continue their careers.

DC Flyers, entering its 11th year, provides similar opportunities in the nation’s capital. Multiple students have participated in both programs before beginning their careers in public service.

Logan Groff, a senior from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, interned at the Supreme Court of Ohio Office of Court Services through the Statehouse Civic Scholars program. He conducted legal research, updated citations, and observed court proceedings in the Children and Families Section. 

“The collaborative environment and guidance from my mentors greatly enhanced my abilities in communication, teamwork and problem solving,” Groff, a senior political science major in the pre-law program, said at the end of his externship. “I’m also grateful to the team at the Ohio Supreme Court for providing me with this enriching experience. I look forward to applying the knowledge and skills I have gained as I continue to pursue my career path in the political science and legal fields.”

Ikeyaira Metcalf, a senior from Clayton, Ohio, joined DC Flyers in 2024. Metcalf said her internship with The Alpine Group, a governmental affairs lobbying firm, helped solidify her career goals.

“Coming to UD, I knew I wanted to be a lawyer, but I didn’t know what was out there and I didn’t even think of D.C. as a place where I’d want to live,” said Metcalf, a senior double majoring in political science and international studies. “I now want to be a lawyer in D.C., just because of the connections I made with lobbyists, lawyers, members of Congress and people in all different sectors. If it wasn’t for DC Flyers, I wouldn’t have been able to make those connections.”

More about Statehouse Civic Scholars: 12-15 students each year intern in state government offices and with interest groups and lobbying firms, among others. Scholars have worked in the offices of the governor, attorney general, secretary of state, speaker of the house, budget and management, and several legislators. Students receive three credit hours, a stipend and accommodation in apartments near state offices.

More about DC Flyers: Since 2014, the program is open to University Honors students interested in civic engagement, governance, public policy, human rights, non-profit work or leadership, with preference for students engaged in the UD community and committed to a career in public service. Students receive housing in Washington, D.C., and a fellowship of up to $3,000 to cover expenses. Students work in federal government or other agencies according to their interest. 

"We express our deep gratitude to the AES Ohio Foundation for its longstanding partnership and support, which includes all 15 years of the Statehouse Civic Scholars program,” said University of Dayton Vice President for Advancement Chris Morrison. “Support from generous organizations like the AES Ohio Foundation help break down financial barriers to experiential learning and ensure these critical programs can be available to future UD students.”

Anyone interested in supporting the programs can contribute to the Statehouse Civic Scholars endowment fund and the DC Flyers endowment fund.