N.C. A&T Student Gains Insights into Politics, Public Service during Internship with Adams

EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (Aug. 22, 2023) – Jordynn Holley, a senior mass media production major at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, completed a highly sought-after summer internship with Congresswoman Alma S. Adams in Charlotte, North Carolina, representing the 12th Congressional District of North Carolina.

During her summer internship with Adams – a two-time N.C. A&T alumna – Holley worked closely with the congresswoman's media and communications team. Her responsibilities included compiling press clips, crafting social media campaigns, editing impactful videos, staffing the congresswoman at public events and drafting engaging press releases. Through this hands-on experience, Holley enhanced her media production skills and gained valuable insights into the world of politics and public service.

Holley, a native of Charlotte, has consistently demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence and community engagement as a student. She is an active member of several organizations including the N.C. A&T Section of the National Council of Negro Women, Nation Society of Leadership and Success, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, National Association of Black Journalists, Aggie Filmmakers and serves as the 2023-24 general council member of the Journalism and Mass Communication (JOMC) Student Advisory Council.

 “Congresswoman Adams has empowered and pushed me to strive for excellence, and she reminds me of the many great people in my life who share their wisdom, knowledge and understanding,” said Holley.

Adams has been an esteemed leader in North Carolina’s political landscape and was elected to her fifth full term Nov. 3, 2022. Her journey began when she won a special election in November 2014, making history as the 100th woman elected to the 113th Congress. Beginning her political career in the 1980s, she became the first African American woman elected to the Greensboro City School board, then went on to serve for nine years on Greensboro City Council. It was then that Adams made a lifetime commitment to effecting social change in her community and beyond.

“I encourage all of our students to seek out hands-on experiences during academic breaks, as they provide invaluable opportunities to enrich their knowledge, develop skills and pave the way for future success,” said Frances Ward-Johnson Ph.D., dean of the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. “Jordynn is an exceptional student and her internship opportunity is a testament to her outstanding abilities and the impact of experiential learning.”