Internship program gives Native students experience in municipal government

Gilbert, Arizona, is providing Native college students with hands-on experience in local government, according to Your Valley Independent. The Native American Management Internship program partners with tribal communities and Native students to offer exposure to municipal operations, including policy, public safety, community resources and administration.

Gilbert currently has two interns in the program: Erica Kleinman and Rose Starlin Jacket. Kleinman is a biology major at Northern Arizona University and a citizen of the Navajo Nation. Jacket is an English major at Arizona State University with tribal affiliations to the Navajo Nation, Hopi and Ute. Gilbert officials said the internship aims to strengthen relationships with tribal communities while preparing Native students for future leadership roles in government and public service.