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Governor’s Fellowship empowers Wilder Students to shape policy and make an impact

This summer, Sofia Tortolero Calanche and Nathan Joyner, Master of Public Administration students at VCU’s Wilder School, made significant strides in public policy through the prestigious Governor’s Fellowship Program.

By Tiffany Murray-Robertson

This summer, within the bustling corridors of Virginia’s state agencies, two standout students from Virginia Commonwealth University's L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs made notable impacts through the prestigious Governor’s Fellowship Program. Sofia Tortolero Calanche and Nathan Joyner, both Master of Public Administration students distinguished by their academic prowess and drive to effect change, immersed themselves in the intricacies of state governance, contributing to policies with far-reaching implications.

Sofia Tortolero Calanche: bridging health policy with practical impact

Tortolero spent her summer embedded in the Secretary of Health and Human Resources office, focusing on synthesizing complex health data and policy implications to support initiatives aimed at enhancing maternal health and reforming foster care—areas critical to the state’s human services framework.

“Working within the healthcare system, my goal was to turn detailed health directives into clear, actionable policies that effectively meet community needs and manage resources wisely,” Tortolero explained. Her efforts during the eight-week fellowship not only supported ongoing health reforms but also allowed her to influence new policy directions directly.

Nathan Joyner: Reforming criminal justice through a lens of compassion

Similarly, Joyner's placement in the Office of Transformation placed him at the forefront of criminal justice reform, particularly focusing on prison reentry strategies. His summer project centered on developing programs to support the reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals, emphasizing familial bonds and social support pre-release.

“I focused on ensuring that our reentry strategies offer more than just integration; they should instill hope and provide a real pathway back into society,” said Joyner. His contribution of research for the development of an executive act on prison reentry showcases a proactive approach to criminal justice, aiming to position Virginia as a leader in innovative and humane correctional practices.

A fellowship experience rooted in real-world applications

Both Tortolero and Joyner view the Governor’s Fellowship as a transformative stage in their careers, offering them unprecedented access to the inner workings of state government and the opportunity to apply their academic knowledge in meaningful ways. They engaged with policy leaders, contributed to high-stakes projects, and developed solutions that resonate with the realities of everyday Virginians.

“The fellowship not only allowed me to contribute to important policy decisions but also refined my skills in research, analysis, and strategic thinking,” said Joyner.

Tortelero also noted the significant impact of her experience, “The real-world exposure to health policy challenges and the mentorship from seasoned policymakers have been crucial in shaping my approach to public service.”

Looking forward

As they concluded the fellowship experience, both Tortolero and Joyner expressed they were poised to continue their journey in public service, armed with deep insights and enhanced capabilities gained through their intensive engagements with Virginia’s state agencies. They plan to leverage their fellowship experiences in future roles, aiming to impact policy at higher levels and continue their commitment to public service.

“The Governor’s Fellowship has been a cornerstone of my professional development, providing me with the tools and confidence to pursue a career that aligns closely with my values and aspirations in public health,” Tortolero said.