Vanderbilt University: Office of Federal Relations

The Office of Federal Relations directly supports the University's academic mission by providing Vanderbilt's faculty and students with excellent opportunities to engage in the national policymaking process. We have office space and a conference room for faculty members who come to Washington to provide congressional testimony; meet with members of congress and their staffs; visit executive branch agencies and federal courts; and attend sessions of various national associations and societies that represent higher education and various research disciplines.

An important part of our mission is to facilitate dialogue between policymakers and Vanderbilt’s faculty and staff, who can provide outstanding insight and expertise on a host of important national issues. We also are pleased to provide guidance to Vanderbilt representatives who testify before Congress or meet with federal government officials. Our office also helps facilitate summer Internship Opportunities for Vanderbilt’s undergraduate students, so many of whom demonstrate great interest in politics, public policy and civic engagement.

In addition, the Washington office hosts 10-12 Vanderbilt undergraduate students each year for an intensive Maymester course, "Foundations of Public Service and Active Citizenship" (HIST 294). The course is organized by the Office of Active Citizenship and Service.