UofL legislative interns, leaders participate in Cardinals at the Capitol

University of Louisville executive and student leaders recently spent time in Frankfort connecting with lawmakers to discuss recent successes, ongoing priorities and the university’s impact across the Commonwealth.

During this year’s Feb. 26 Cardinals at the Capitol day, President Gerry Bradley explained priorities of UofL’s Strategic Plan 2026-2030. Advances in student success and workforce preparation, research and innovation, health care and community service were a focus of conversations with Kentucky’s lawmakers.

At least 40 UofL students participating in the Frankfort internship program were part of the vital cadre of student leadership represented at Cardinals at the Capitol. These students represent more than a dozen different majors and 15 counties across the Commonwealth. Interns are assigned to both political parties and members of the House of Representative and Senate within the Kentucky General Assembly. Students learn from legislators ranging from freshmen to party leaders and committee chairs.

Two interns part of this year’s dynamic and energetic cohort are Gabriel Reed and Reese Cameron.

Gabriel Reed is a Northern Kentucky native following in his mother’s footsteps interning in Frankfort while attending UofL. The sophomore political science major is assigned to UofL alumnus Rep. Matt Lehman ’99, (D-67) where he serves in a district just 15 minutes from where Reed grew up.

Reed said his legislative tasks have given him a greater appreciation of the collaboration and communication that goes into decision making, as well as a greater sense of empathy for those whose issues he may not fully understand.

“No matter how small, I feel like my impact is ensuring that somebody out there is better represented than they may be without me,” he said. “I have met so many intelligent, gifted and passionate legislators, staff and fellow interns and their dedication inspires me daily. I have not just learned about the legislative process, but about myself in terms of new ways to think, analyze and express my views.”

Reese Cameron, assigned to Sen. Julie Raque Adams (R-36), hails from Flatlands, Ky. and is a sophomore double major in political science and business economics. Cameron said being able to experience the legislative process from the inside has enhanced her understanding of and passion for the work. “The environment I’ve experienced at the Kentucky Capitol is the epitome of professional, and everyone is so passionate about what they do and works so hard to make a difference. In the future, I hope to use this experience as a guideline that I can carry forward with me forever.”