Wake Forest has been named the “Private University of the Year” for its WAKE Washington program by The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars. Wake Forest offers a study and internship program in Washington, D.C., through The Washington Center.
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Wake Forest named top private university
Washington Center recognizes WAKE Washington as a model program
By Kerry M. King ('85)
Office of Creative Services
Wake Forest has been named the “Private University of the Year” for its WAKE Washington program by The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars. Wake Forest offers a study and internship program in Washington, D.C., through The Washington Center, the largest provider of educational programs in the nation's capital.
“Wake Forest has been extraordinarily intelligent and effective in developing its program at The Washington Center,” said Joe Johnston, senior vice president of The Washington Center. “WAKE Washington is a program that's done so many things right that it is a model for others.”
Wake Forest was recognized during The Washington Center's annual awards ceremony Sept. 22 at the National Press Club in Washington. Several other universities, organizations and individuals were also recognized during the program.
“Each year The Washington Center honors a group of individuals and organizations that have contributed significantly to the experience that our students have in our programs,” said Eugene J. Alpert, senior vice president of The Washington Center. “As a result of their efforts, many students have gone on to careers in Washington, D.C., and in the realm of public service.”
Wake Forest began its Washington program — which is offered during the spring semester and summer — two years ago. Since then, 34 undergraduates have studied in Washington and held internships at the White House, Congress, various government agencies and departments, non-profit organizations and media outlets. In addition to their internships, students take classes through The Washington Center and undertake an independent study project with a Wake Forest faculty member. The Washington Center offers academic coursework and internships tailored to students' interests.
Wake Forest also was recognized as a Gold Sponsor at The Washington Center's Gala 2008, also held on Sept. 22, at the Newseum in Washington. Wake Forest President Nathan O. Hatch, Provost Jill Tiefenthaler and Associate Dean of the College Paul N. Orser ('69) hosted a number of Washington-area alumni and friends of the University at the dinner. Hatch serves on The Washington Center's Council of Presidents. Orser, who is also director of WAKE Washington, is a member of the center's Liaison Advisory Board.
During the gala, Bob Schieffer of CBS News, the anchor of “Face the Nation,” was recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award from The Washington Center. Wake Forest senior Lauren Wright, who attended the gala with her parents, held an internship at CBS News through The Washington Center last summer and worked with Schieffer on “Face the Nation.”
(WAKE Washington is open to undergraduates from any major. Interested students should contact Paul N. Orser, associate dean of the College. Applications for the summer 2009 program will be accepted in early January.)
