[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 11 (Wednesday, January 25, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E78]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       IN HONOR OF THE UNI-CAPITOL WASHINGTON INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

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                             HON. SAM FARR

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 25, 2012

  Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Uni-Capitol 
Washington Internship Program. Since its inception 13 years ago, the 
program has placed some of Australia's best and brightest university 
students, who have exhibited a passion for civic engagement and public 
service, with House and Senate offices for two-month full-time 
internships annually. These internships have enabled me and my staff, 
who have participated since the program's inception to share in our 
common values and ideals, while at the same time learning more about 
the Commonwealth of Australia.
  It is an understatement to say that the United States and Australia 
are close allies globally, or that we share many political and economic 
traits. We are in many ways akin to extended family, sharing much tied 
history and culture. It is in this spirit that the program was launched 
13 years ago to further such relations. Since its beginnings, the 
program has seen more than 130 young Australians walk the halls of 
Congress, and it is with the utmost pride that I recognize the 
importance of the Uni-Capitol Washington Internship Program in the 
United States House of Representatives.
  Ms. Jessica Boddington joined my office on January 3, 2011 from the 
University of Queensland, where she is simultaneously pursuing degrees 
in International Relations and in Economics. During her time in my 
office, Jess has proven herself to be a caring, intelligent and 
dedicated intern, and I am honored to host her. In addition to serving 
my constituents with professionalism and respect, she has attended 
hearings and briefings, drafted legislative correspondence and assisted 
my staffers with a variety of individual projects.
  Founded and directed by former House and Senate staffer, Eric 
Federing, the program fosters cultural and educational exchanges 
between the United States and Australia. Mr. Federing deserves 
distinguished praise for his efforts in coordinating this program, as 
well as for the support he provides to its individual participants. 
Outside of working in Congressional offices, the interns are given the 
opportunity to explore our brand of American democracy through panel 
discussions with political correspondents, representatives from various 
government offices and professionals at non-government agencies.
  Mr. Speaker, I cannot fully express how remarkable the Uni-Capitol 
Washington Internship Program is, and I once again extend my sincere 
appreciation to Mr. Federing for managing this program. As United 
States Members of Congress we have a responsibility to serve our 
constituents well, but also a unique opportunity to reach out to a 
myriad of people across the globe. As such, I would encourage all of my 
colleagues to open their doors to students from overseas, so that we 
can share our culture and democratic institutions. I ask my colleagues 
to join with me in recognizing the contributions of the Uni-Capitol 
Washington Internship Program and, again, thank Jess Boddington for her 
admirable participation and diligent work.

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