Strategic Expansion from Capitol Hill to the Classroom

Published Date April 04, 2025
News Type Podcast

Glenn College Washington Academic Internship Program Fellows pose for a photo in front of the Capitol Building in 2023.

By Joan Slattery Wall 

Christy Amatos grew up with a love of American history and the moments and people that made the United States the nation that it is.

Former Glenn College WAIP Fellow Christy Amatos is assistant parliamentarian of the U.S. Senate.

“Walking up Capitol Hill every morning reminds me of those who served before — not just members of Congress but the congressional staff, the police, the folks who keep the lights on and the trains literally running — and reminds me of the obligation we all have to uphold their legacy of public service,” said Amatos, an Ohio State political science and anthropologist graduate who participated in the Glenn College Washington Academic Internship Program in 2007. 

“One of the things I enjoy doing most is mentoring and meeting with current WAIP students, and you can see the spirit of Sen. John Glenn’s vision in every one,” said Amatos, who is assistant parliamentarian of the U.S. Senate. “They come from diverse backgrounds and have different goals and dreams, but they come to D.C. and embrace the spirit of service and come away with an appreciation for the work being done here.” 

Like Amatos, Ohio State and Glenn College alumni are deeply invested in the success of the next generation of public servants and assist students in taking advantage of D.C.’s unmatched access to policymakers and industry leaders, said Associate Professor Amanda Girth, who teaches in D.C.

“Buckeye alumni in D.C. go beyond mentorship — they serve as connectors, advocates and advisors, leveraging their own experiences to help students break into competitive fields, build meaningful professional relationships, and develop the skills needed to thrive in high-pressure, high-stakes Washington,” Girth said. “Their guidance demystifies the transition from student to young professional, making what can feel like an intimidating move much more accessible and exciting. Ultimately, this strong Buckeye presence in D.C. empowers students to step confidently into careers in public service, policy and beyond, becoming active contributors to the future of public policy and management.” 

Leading the Way to Washington

Learn how the Glenn College builds bridges between Ohio State and the nation’s capital.

As the Glenn College celebrates 25 years of student programs in the nation’s capital, it aims to broaden its presence there in two strategic ways.

“First, we are exploring cost-effective options to enhance our physical footprint in the District,” said Mark Gaspar, the Glenn College senior director of Washington operations and an academic instructor. 

“Second, we are creating more opportunities for our researchers to teach and work in Washington, D.C.,” Gaspar said. “Associate Professor Amanda Girth is already serving in this capacity, and we intend to identify additional faculty appointments in Washington, D.C.” 

“I am incredibly grateful to live and work in D.C., while remaining deeply connected to my colleagues in Columbus. This dual perspective allows me to bridge policy and practice and enriches both my research and teaching,” Girth said. “I research federal acquisition policy and practice, and being in D.C. provides unparalleled access to the policymakers and federal agencies shaping these processes. Proximity to decision-makers fosters meaningful collaboration on research, grants and policy initiatives, ensuring my work remains relevant, timely and impactful.” 

Just as important as cutting-edge research, Girth noted, is that being in D.C. allows faculty to bring real-time insights to their classrooms. 

“By engaging directly with policymakers, attending high-level discussions and participating in ongoing policy debates, we ensure that students are not just studying government but experiencing and understanding it in action,” Girth said. “This exposure prepares them to navigate and lead in the ever-evolving federal landscape.” 

Gaspar said he has been impressed with the college’s students ever since he was first invited to join the then- John Glenn School of Public Affairs in 2014.

Buckeyes in the Beltway

Meet alumni leading federal service in our nation’s capital. 

“I was inspired by the exceptionally talented and motivated students, all eager to become change agents guiding our nation’s future,” Gaspar said. “When I was asked to step into the senior director of Washington operations position in late 2022, I saw an opportunity to blend what I learned through my global business and higher education careers. Helping such remarkable students launch their own careers is a privilege like no other.” 

Read the latest edition of Public Address, the Glenn College magazine.