HWS News
25 August 2025 • Alums HWS Launches Frelinghuysen Summer Program in Washington, D.C.
A recent gift from former U.S. Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen ’69, L.H.D. ’01 (R-NJ) will expand public service, policy and advocacy internship opportunities for Hobart and William Smith students.
Hobart and William Smith announces the start of the Frelinghuysen Summer Program, a fully funded, Washington, D.C.-based internship initiative. Made possible by a gift from former U.S. Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen ’69, L.H.D. ’01 (R-NJ), the program provides qualified students with paid or stipend-supported internships, housing and enrichment opportunities in the nation's capital. The program complements HWS’ longstanding Day on the Hill program, now in its 17th year, initiated and funded by Frelinghuysen.
“The Frelinghuysen Summer Program embodies HWS’ commitment to prepare students for lives of consequence,” says President Mark D. Gearan. “Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of Congressman Frelinghuysen, we can provide a transformative Washington, D.C., experience, opening doors to careers in public service and ensuring our students can pursue their passions without financial burden.”
In 2008, Frelinghuysen, who represented New Jersey’s 11th District from 1995-2019, created an endowment to fund the Salisbury Center for Career, Professional and Experiential Education’s popular Day on the Hill career trek which provides students with three days to explore and experience D.C. over winter break. During Day on the Hill, students meet members of Congress, attend talks by politicians, network with alumni who work on the Hill, discover what it takes to get a job in the nation's capital, and discuss the day-to-day routine of D.C. life. They also tour government and private facilities such as the FBI, U.S. Secret Service, the Washington Post and the Ripon Society.
The new program will initially support 10 student internships each summer, with plans to grow to 25. Placements will span government agencies, think tanks, nongovernmental organizations and advocacy groups. In addition to their internships, students will participate in professional forums, cultural excursions, networking events and work on a community service project. A dedicated advisory board of Washington, D.C. professionals will mentor students and organize networking events.
Associate Professor and Chair of Politics DeWayne Lucas, who has led the Day on the Hill program from 2007 to 2017 and from 2023 to present, is grateful for the expanded program and says Frelinghuysen's life of public service is an excellent example of purpose-driven leadership in practice. “Congressman Frelinghuysen has been a dedicated advocate for student engagement in public service, particularly in the nation's capital. His continued support ensures that students can fully immerse themselves in Washington, D.C., through internships, networking and hands-on experiences to prepare for meaningful careers.”
“This program is not just an internship; it’s a fully immersive professional and civic development experience,” adds Brandi Ferrara, assistant vice president for career services. “From mentorship by our dedicated alumni to engaging in a Washington, D.C.-based community project, students will build a network and a resume that will launch their careers.”
Applications for the program will open in mid-September for Summer 2026. For more information, please contact Brandi Ferrara or Julia Walsh Postler.
Frelinghuysen’s longstanding commitment to HWS began as an undergraduate, where he served as president of the Kappa Alpha Society and president of the Hobart class of 1969. After graduating with a degree in American history, he served in Southeast Asia as a member of the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1971.
Upon his return, Frelinghuysen supported HWS and its alumni association, serving as chair of the alumni phonathon, a class agent chair and reunion campaign chair. He received an alumni citation and, in 2001, an honorary degree from HWS in recognition of his service.
During those years, Frelinghuysen entered public service, holding positions in state and local government. In 1983, he was elected to the New Jersey General Assembly, representing the 25th legislative district, where he served until 1994. He was chair of the Assembly Appropriations Committee during the 1988-89 legislative session. He was then elected to the U.S. House of Representatives.
Top: Former U.S. Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen ’69, L.H.D. ’01 (R-NJ) speaks to students during the Day on the Hill trip in Washington, D.C.
