Undergraduate researchers will support broad Rockefeller Institute research portfolio in education and workforce development, economic development, climate and environment, and more

Albany, NY — The Rockefeller Institute of Government is proud to announce the selection of three outstanding young scholars to its Center for Law & Policy Solutions (CLPS) Fall 2023 Research Fellowship. The fellows will work under the guidance of CLPS Director Laura Rabinow and Rockefeller Institute Senior Policy Analyst Leigh Wedenoja.

“We’re excited to invite these students to support timely and relevant public policy analysis and develop hands-on research experience,” said Laura Schultz, executive director of research at the Rockefeller Institute. “It is critical that we prepare students entering the public policy sphere for the rigors of the professional research environment and the Institute is honored to play a role in that development.”

As part of their fellowship, CLPS students will assist with policy research projects across the Institute’s broad portfolio of research. Institute scholars will act as mentors for the fellows and direct their work on research projects.

This group of students represents the latest cohort for the Center for Law & Policy Solutions, which has, since 2018, provided professional development experience to students through research and development of practical solutions to pressing public policy issues.

The CLPS Fall 2023 Research Fellows are:

Ahtziri Campos
Ahtziri Campos is a combined bachelor’s and master’s student at the University at Albany, majoring in political science with a double minor in Latin American and Caribbean studies and legal studies. Ahtziri is very passionate about tenant issues and has been a tenant organizer with the Ridgewood Tenants Union for many years. She is an undergraduate research assistant with Professor Mary Ellen Stitt researching pre-trial diversion programs. Ahtziri also has experience working in the New York State Senate for Deputy Majority Leader Michael Gianaris, offering constituent and legislative support. After completing her bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Ahtziri plans to attend law school, focusing on constitutional law.

Annabelle Trowbridge
Annabelle Trowbridge is a sophomore in the Honors College at the University at Albany from Queensbury, New York, majoring in political science with a double minor in Spanish and international studies. In addition to her studies, Trowbridge works at the Office of Sustainability in Albany City Hall and is the constituent intern for Councilwoman Gabriella Romero, representing Albany’s 6th Ward. Last semester, she worked as an undergraduate assistant for Dina Refki at the Center of Women in Government and Civil Society. Later this school year, Trowbridge will spend a semester in DC as part of the Semester in Washington program at the University at Albany. After completing her bachelor’s degree, she intends to pursue her master’s in international relations.

Suhani Iyer
Suhani Iyer is a junior at the University at Albany from Guilderland, New York, majoring in public policy with a concentration in urban issues. In addition to her studies, she works for the university’s Office of Intercultural Student Engagement as the Asian heritage peer educator and serves as chapter vice president of Alpha Phi Omega National Service Fraternity. Iyer has interned for the Intergovernmental Affairs Division of the New York State Labor Commissioner’s Office and New York State Senator Michelle Hinchey. She has diverse experiences in project management, communications, and external research. After graduation, she hopes to continue her involvement in public affairs and advocacy.