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Announcement of the 2026 Frederick Douglass-Daniel O'Connell Global Interns in Ireland

The Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) is proud to introduce the 2026 Frederick Douglass-Daniel O'Connell Global Interns, a group of 14 outstanding American college students chosen for an eight-week internship experience in Dublin, Ireland. Co-sponsored by CIEE and several notable partners, including Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs and the African American Irish Diaspora Network, this program aims to honor the legacies of two pivotal figures in the fight for equality and social justice: Frederick Douglass and Daniel O'Connell.

The selection process was highly competitive, with more than 500 applicants from various reputable institutions, spanning Ivy League schools, historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), private colleges, and flagship public universities. The students selected represent a diverse array of academic backgrounds and are united by their desire to gain hands-on experience while connecting with Irish culture and history.

The Inspiring Interns and Their Backgrounds

Among the chosen interns are students from prestigious institutions such as Barnard College, Harvard University, and Spelman College, and they are majoring in fields including psychology, political science, business management, journalism, and sociology. Here is a glimpse of the exceptional cohort:

• - Ariadna Sanchez, Barnard College, Psychology
• - Joshua Looper, Bowie State University, Government
• - Daishanay Francis, Clark Atlanta University, Political Science
• - Zaire Floyd, Florida A&M University, Journalism
• - Sarah Darabadey, Georgia State University, Business Management
• - Michelle Chung, Harvard University, Philosophy
• - Garrison Andrews, Howard University, Political Science
• - Caroline Miller, Nova Southeastern University, Political Science
• - Hayley Ponds, Spelman College, Pre-Medicine
• - Sophia Wade, Spelman College, Political Science
• - Christopher Vega, University of Texas at Austin, History
• - Nebiy Petros, University of Texas at Austin, Economics
• - Chrisler White, Wofford College, History
• - Elijah St. Martin, Yale University, Sociology

The 2026 cohort is particularly noteworthy as four of the interns were awarded positions through the support of the John Lillian Miles Lewis Foundation, dedicated to enhancing opportunities for students from areas represented by the late Congressman John Lewis.

A Transformative Experience

Throughout their time in Ireland, the interns will gain work experience at various organizations aligned with their career interests, including opportunities in media, technology, transportation, and human rights advocacy. They will also engage in academic lectures about Irish history and culture while participating in extracurricular and networking activities in Dublin, Cork, and Belfast.

James P. Pellow, Ed.D., President and CEO of CIEE, emphasized the significance of the program, stating, "The Douglass-O'Connell program introduces a new generation of young leaders to today's diverse and vibrant Ireland." This initiative not only contributes to the students' personal and professional growth but also fosters essential connections between the United States and Ireland.

In line with promoting accessibility, all eligible applicants not selected as 2026 Global Interns will receive a Douglass-O'Connell Scholars Grant worth $1,500, applicable towards any of CIEE's extensive summer or semester study abroad programs until the summer of 2027.

Conclusion

The Frederick Douglass-Daniel O'Connell Global Internship Program seeks to create lasting impacts by developing future leaders who embody the values of social justice and equality. As Dennis Brownlee, Founder and President of the African American Irish Diaspora Network, aptly stated, "The program builds inclusive bridges of understanding and opportunity between Ireland and America," making a significant contribution towards a more inclusive and interconnected world.

For further information about CIEE's Global Internship program and how to get involved, visit ciee.org/fddo.