[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 159 (2013), Part 1]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 925]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




       IN HONOR OF THE UNI-CAPITOL WASHINGTON INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. SAM FARR

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, February 4, 2013

  Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Uni-Capitol 
Washington Internship Program. Since its inception 14 years ago, the 
program has placed some of Australia's best and most passionate 
university students 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 culture and people of Australia.
  This year, I am delighted to welcome Elizabeth Flora into my 
Washington, DC office. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to 
participate in this valuable exchange program, meeting Australian 
students that have a passion for American politics. Since its 
commencement, the program has seen more than 130 young Australians walk 
the halls of Congress in various capacities 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.
  Elizabeth joined my office on January 2, 2013 from the University of 
Canberra where she is pursuing her B.A. in Communications and Media. 
During her time in my office, Elizabeth has proven herself to be a 
caring, humorous, 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 has assisted my staffers with a variety 
of important research projects.
  In addition to working in offices throughout Congress, all Uni-
Capitol Washington interns are given the opportunity to explore our 
brand of democracy through panel discussions with political 
correspondents, Members of Congress and representatives from various 
government offices as well as professionals at non-government agencies.
  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 and dedication in coordinating 
this program, and the support and opportunities he provides to all 
participants is truly incredible.
  Mr. Speaker, I cannot fully express how critical this program is to 
strengthening ties with America's allies and offering inspiration for 
the students of today that may become the leaders of tomorrow. 
Participating in this program has been a remarkable experience that has 
inspired Elizabeth for her future endeavors and gave my office the 
sincere pleasure of having an Australian working among us. I extend my 
sincere appreciation to Mr. Federing for developing and organizing this 
program, to my fellow Members of Congress and their dedicated staff for 
hosting, to Elizabeth for grasping this opportunity with an open heart 
and a curious mind and to all participants for engaging in public 
service. I ask my colleagues to join with me in recognizing the 
contributions of the Uni-Capitol Washington Internship Program and, 
again, thanking Elizabeth Flora for her admirable participation and 
diligent work.

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