Wei Li Werner, a Madison, Wisconsin native, received the prestigious Bryce Harlow Foundation Fellowship.
Werner, who is pursuing a Master of Arts in Government at Johns Hopkins University, views this fellowship as a pivotal moment in her burgeoning career in government relations.
“It’s a great opportunity, and the scholarship was super helpful,” said Werner, 25. “I’m really looking forward to the mentorship component of the program and connecting with other passionate professionals in the government relations space.”
Werner’s journey in public service began with her undergraduate studies at George Washington University, where she earned a BA in Political Science. Now, as she balances her hybrid graduate program—taking online and in-person classes—she continues to make strides in her professional life.
Currently serving as a Legislative Assistant for U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, Werner plays a crucial role in the senator’s office.
“In my current position, I lead on various issues for Senator Kaine,” Werner said. “I mainly help coordinate the annual appropriations process for the office and also cover other topics such as technology, science, space, federal employees, and consumer product safety issues.”
The Bryce Harlow Foundation Fellowship is a recognition of Werner’s past achievements and an investment in her future. As she looks ahead, Werner is eager to make the most of the fellowship’s resources.
In addition to a $9,000 award, Fellows are assigned mentors from the Foundation’s board of governors.
“I hope to meet new people and gain new perspectives,” she said. “I’m currently working in government, so connecting with other folks in the field will be great. I think this program will provide great career guidance.”
Werner is set to graduate from Johns Hopkins in August 2025, and she believes the fellowship will be instrumental in shaping her future career.
“This program provides great career guidance,” she reiterated, underscoring her commitment to leveraging the fellowship for professional growth.
As she continues to navigate her dual roles as a student and a legislative professional, Werner stands as a testament to the power of dedication, ambition, and the opportunities that can arise when talent meets recognition.
Bryce Harlow fellowships are awarded annually to exceptional graduate students who aspire to have careers in government relations and lobbying. Bryce Harlow Fellows attend graduate school part-time while working full-time in a variety of settings, including Capitol Hill, government agencies, lobbying firms, non-profit organizations, corporations, and trade associations.
The foundation was established in 1981 in honor of the late Bryce Harlow to promote integrity in the lobbying profession and to increase the understanding of its role in developing sound public policy. Bryce Harlow, who served with four U.S. presidents, established the first White House Congressional Liaison Office and was director during the Eisenhower and Nixon administrations. The Foundation provides scholarships to graduate students who work full-time and foresee a career in government advocacy. The Foundation is dedicated to keeping Bryce Harlow’s values alive and to promoting high standards in lobbying, government relations and related professions.
Learn more about the Johns Hopkins MA in Government degree program.