Michael Cochenour

Michael Cochenour graduated from the Ohio State University in 2020 with Bachelor of Arts degrees in political science, international studies, and Russian.  During his undergraduate career, Michael was involved in the Undergraduate Student Government, served Club Swimming at Ohio State as Competition Chair for three years, and directed the 2019 College Club Swimming National Championship at McCorkle Aquatic Pavilion.  

Following graduation, Michael served as Legislative Aide to Representatives Michael Sheehy and Michele Grim. Being the only full-time staffer in these offices, Michael was involved in every aspect of the legislative system, including policy research and development, constituent outreach and casework, lobbyist and media relations, and administrative management. Constituent casework, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, left a lasting impression on how public service can positively impact others’ lives. 

Michael chose the MPA-DC program for an opportunity to experience a new form of public service. Having served in the legislature, Michael learned what it was like to serve a community, bounded by their proximity to one another. Now, as a Program Assistant with the National Science Foundation’s Office of Integrative Activities, he is helping fund interdisciplinary scientific research across the nation, mainly through public educational institutions. The research being conducted today may bring about new theories and innovations that benefit future generations.