[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 32 (Wednesday, February 25, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E248]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   A TRIBUTE TO SALLY KNOWLES-JACKSON AND THE UNI-CAPITOL WASHINGTON 
                           INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOE COURTNEY

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 25, 2015

  Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, as one of our closest allies, the nation 
of Australia has stood steadfast with the United States as we tackle 
issues of great importance to both nations. Like any strong friendship, 
our bilateral relationship requires that we collaborate and exchange 
ideas. I have been fortunate to work with Ambassador Kim Beazley to 
foster commerce between Connecticut and Australia, and have had the 
pleasure of hosting the Ambassador in my home state. And for many 
years, I have continued learning about Australia's goals and priorities 
by hosting a series of intelligent, dedicated, and curious young 
professionals in my office through the Uni-Capitol Washington 
Internship Program.
  The program places 15 students of Australia's best and brightest 
students in internships in Congressional offices, federal agencies, and 
committees to lend an able hand to office operations, learn about 
American government, and serve as what they often call themselves: 
Unofficial Ambassadors.
  I would be remiss not to note that this important relationship would 
not be possible without the dedication of Mr. Eric Federing, who year 
after year shepherds a new generation of Australian students into our 
nation's capital. Over the course of its 16 years, the Uni-Capitol 
Washington Internship Program has brought an impressive 170 students 
from 10 Australian universities to the United States Congress.
  This year I was privileged to have Sally Knowles-Jackson join our 
office from the University of Melbourne where she is studying to be a 
lawyer. I would like to offer my sincere thanks to Sally for her hard 
work and dedication. Curious and positive, she quickly adjusted to the 
fast-paced life of a Congressional office and eagerly took on the tasks 
and responsibilities of her position. While in the UniCapitol program, 
she has had the opportunity to meet with officials from the Australian 
Embassy and the UN, attend briefings and hearings, meet with White 
House officials, members of the DC media, and learn the ins and outs of 
the Capitol building's historic halls. Sally has been able to learn not 
only about life in D.C., but also about our constituents back home in 
Connecticut.
  When she returns to Melbourne next week it is my hope that Sally will 
bring with her an understanding of the American legislative process, 
knowledge of Washington, DC, and an appreciation for the enduring 
friendships our two nations have maintained.
  Mr. Speaker, I would like to once more thank Eric, Sally, my 
colleagues who have also hosted their own Unofficial Australian 
Ambassadors, as well as the nation of Australia for sharing in this 
truly one-of-a kind experience. I look forward to welcoming future Uni-
Capitol Washington Internship students into my office.

                          ____________________