This summer, six students from the University of Georgia stepped onto Capitol Hill for a 12-week immersive experience in Washington, D.C. As Congressional Agricultural Fellows representing the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), these students gained an insider’s perspective on federal governance and agricultural policy.

During the program, fellows took on daily responsibilities in congressional offices, attending high-level agricultural committee hearings, drafting policy briefings, conducting critical industry research and engaging directly with visiting constituents. The fast-paced environment offered participants a comprehensive view of how agricultural decisions impact communities nationwide.

Meet the 2026 Congressional Agricultural Fellows

Selected from a competitive pool of applicants, the 2026 cohort featured Luke Cody, Jesse Cronic, Madeline Elliott, Rebecca Evans, J.R. Goodman and Emma Pastor.

Luke Cody, Office of Rep. Sanford Bishop

Cody is a fourth-year student pursuing dual degrees in agribusiness and agricultural and applied economics with a minor in environmental law.

One highlight was attending a U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service roundtable on issues affecting American agriculture.

“Serving as a Congressional Agricultural Fellow in Congressman Sanford Bishop’s office was one of the most formative chapters of my education. I researched agricultural issues, attended hearings, and watched the concerns of producers travel from the farm gate to the halls of Congress.” -Luke Cody

Madeline Elliott, Office of Rep. Brian Jack

Elliott, a fourth-year student majoring in agribusiness and agricultural and applied economics, with minors in political science and food and fiber marketing and a certificate in sustainability, served as a liaison in Rep. Jack’s office.

“My experience as a Congressional Agricultural Fellow was one of the best decisions I have ever made because it pushed me outside of my comfort zone and helped me grow both personally and professionally. The experience gave me legislative skills and a level of understanding of the political process that I never could have gained from a classroom alone.” -Madeline Elliott

Rebecca Evans, Office of Rep. Rick Allen

Evans, a fourth-year student majoring in poultry science, gained direct insight into legislative operations and civic outreach while serving in Rep. Allen’s office.

“I loved seeing firsthand how a congressional office works and how policy decisions are made. The biggest thing I learned was the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone. I became much more confident communicating with constituents and taking on new responsibilities.” 

-Rebecca Evans

J.R. Goodman, Office of Rep. Austin Scott

Goodman, a fifth-year student majoring in agribusiness and agricultural and applied economics with a minor in political science, found that observing day-to-day interactions provided insight into effective governance. He also appreciated the chance to share his own perspective, noting that Scott took time to listen to both interns and fellows, making them feel included on the staff.

“Rep. Scott would talk to his interns and me and ask for our opinions on political issues, both in Georgia and abroad.” - J.R. Goodman

Emma Pastor, Office of Sen. Jon Ossoff

Pastor, a fourth-year student double-majoring in political science and agricultural and environmental science communication, said the experience she gained extended beyond agricultural issues.

“Having an opportunity to witness the policymaking process from a firsthand viewpoint was extremely insightful. It gave me more confidence in our legislative process.” -Emma Pastor