Jake Kennedy grew up in San Diego, California and studied political science at Bucknell University, where he minored in environmental policy. Today he works as a Professional Staff Member for the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, where his portfolio includes policy work related to climate, hazardous waste, and chemical safety. He is also working to earn an MBA from the University of Maryland.
Before his role with the committee, Jake worked as a legislative assistant in former Arizona Senator Jeff Flake’s office. He also worked for a Member of Parliament in London, sparking an interest in government and politics that led him to the U.S. Senate. Jake would like to become an in-house lobbyist one day, explaining some of the regulatory uncertainty in DC to those making business decisions around regulations.
Combining his experience working on Capitol Hill with an MBA and being a Bryce Harlow Fellow will help equip him with the skills needed for eventually achieving that goal.
“Being awarded the Fellowship is an important honor, validating that I’m on the right path and among good company,” Jake said. “The values instilled by Bryce Harlow and the Foundation convey what federal advocacy really means and helps bring conversations about the role of integrity in advocacy to the forefront.” Jake adopted two hound dogs during the pandemic, Sadie and George.
