MSU students gain D.C. experience during the summer Demmer Scholars program

Contact: Mary Pollitz

STARKVILLE, Miss.—Several Mississippi State students will spend their summer in Washington, D.C., in the prestigious William A. Demmer Scholars Program, gaining hands-on experience in natural resource policy and federal governmental operations.

Running through August, the program places approximately 25 students each year from MSU, Michigan State University and Montana universities in internships with federal agencies and nongovernmental organizations focused on natural resources.

Established in 2009, the Demmer Scholars Program provides students with exposure to policymaking at the national level while building professional experience and career connections. Since its inception, more than 415 students have participated, with many continuing careers in Washington, D.C. More than 70 program alumni are currently employed in these positions in the nation’s capital. The initiative’s namesake is known for his support of natural resource conservation and is a former president of the Boone and Crockett Club, the nation’s first conservation organization.

2026 MSU Demmer Scholars include (by city):

GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas—Savannah Jones, wildlife, fisheries and aquaculture senior

GUNTOWN—Tanner Beasley, political science junior

KOSCIUSKO—Justin Hunt, wildlife, fisheries and aquaculture junior

HELENA, Alabama—Adrian Horsted, wildlife fisheries and aquaculture senior

MEMPHIS, Tennessee—Charles Treadwell, wildlife fisheries and aquaculture junior

PINOLA—Steven Berry, agribusiness junior concentrating in policy and law

STARKVILLE—Katie Hardwick, mechanical engineering junior

UNION—Hallie Smith, political science junior

Mississippi State University is taking care of what matters. Learn more at www.msstate.edu.