Madelynn Neace, a recent political science graduate and former Columbus State soccer standout, has begun a high‑profile internship at Troutman Strategies in Washington, D.C., where she is applying her academic training to real‑world policy challenges.
Legislative Research and Coalition Building
During her tenure at the firm, Neace conducts legislative research, performs policy analysis, and works alongside seasoned government‑affairs professionals to shape partnerships and coalitions that influence both federal and state initiatives.
Her coursework in American government and public policy at Columbus State provided a solid foundation for the analytical demands of the internship, while her consistent presence on the Peach Belt Conference’s All‑Academic Team — recognizing a minimum 3.6 GPA — underscored her commitment to scholarly excellence.
Athletic Legacy Meets Academic Ambition
Neace’s athletic résumé includes contributions to four Peach Belt Conference championships and four consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, highlighted by a Final Four run in 2022 and another in 2024, reflecting the same teamwork and perseverance she now brings to policy work.
She also took the opportunity to brief Columbus State President Stuart Rayfield during his visit to the nation’s capital, sharing insights from her internship and reinforcing the university’s growing presence in policy circles.
Looking Ahead to Capitol Hill
Building on this momentum, Neace plans to return to Washington, D.C., this summer for a congressional internship with Georgia U.S. Representative Barry Loudermilk, a move that promises to deepen her understanding of legislative processes and expand her network within the political arena.