FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, D.C.– The Joint National Committee for Languages and the National Council for Languages and International Studies (JNCL-NCLIS) is pleased to announce its recent addition of Alissa Rutkowski as Communications and Policy Intern at their offices in the Washington, D.C. area.
As Communications and Policy Intern, Rutkowski assists the Managing Policy Analyst and Executive Director in planning and executing high-level Congressional meetings and special events, including JNCL’s Language Advocacy Day in February. She also performs policy research on a range of topics, from current legislation regarding language education to federal appropriations, and creates content for public communications outlets.
Rutkowski attended Saginaw Valley State University in University Center, Michigan, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with minors in Communication, French, and English. During her undergraduate career, she participated in two study abroad programs, presented research at both domestic and international conferences, and lead multiple volunteer efforts across the country.
“Having worked closely with JNCL-NCLIS to support language education in Michigan, I have developed tremendous respect for all that they do on behalf of America’s languages,” said Dr. Julie Foss, Associate Professor of Modern Foreign Languages, Saginaw Valley State University, and Public Affairs Liaison for the Michigan World Language Association (MIWLA). “Having also worked closely with Alissa on our campus, I’ve developed tremendous respect for her many talents, her drive, and her passion for languages. I know she will work tirelessly as JNCL-NCLIS’ newest language advocate.”
Prior to her internship acceptance, Rutkowski worked as an undergraduate student research assistant for a faculty-lead project on interactional linguistics. “I really enjoyed having conversations with people from various backgrounds and areas of expertise about the implications of linguistic research and the importance of language education,” said Rutkowski. “I’m excited for the opportunity to use my knowledge and enthusiasm for language to help continue JNCL-NCLIS’ mission.” Alissa can be reached at arutkowski at languagepolicy dot org.
JNCL-NCLIS represents over 100 national, regional and state organizations encompassing virtually all areas of the language field: the major and less-commonly taught languages, including English and English as a second language, bilingual education, the classics, linguistics, exchanges, research, technology, and translation.