Internships and scholarships for women students interested in polling and campaigns

Washington D.C. (April 30, 2024) — The American Association of Political Consultants Foundation is launching the Lake / DiVall Scholarship in honor of trailblazing women pollsters Linda DiVall and Celinda Lake, both recognized in the AAPC Hall of Fame.

“We’re proud to launch this new scholarship program to encourage and support talented young women with a passion for politics and encourage them to explore a career in polling and campaigns,” said Larry Huynh, president of AAPC.

Recipients of the Lake / DiVall Scholarship will have the opportunity to participate in a 9-week, full-time internship placement within a polling firm that is an AAPC member firm. In addition to this invaluable hands-on experience in the field, the scholarship program will make separate direct financial grants to worthy women students interested in a career in politics to provide support for their undergraduate education, as funds permit.

“It’s great that the AAPC Foundation is encouraging young women to explore a career in campaigns and polling by creating a new scholarship and internship program. I couldn't be more honored to have it named after Linda DiVall and myself. That’s the kind of bipartisan respect and collaboration that the country needs more of.” said Celinda Lake, founder of Lake Research Partners. Lake was inducted into the AAPC Hall of Fame this year.

“I am truly honored that the AAPC Foundation has established this intern and scholarship program to guide young women who have an interest in political survey research.

Celinda has been a wonderful partner over the years as we have worked together on numerous bipartisan projects. The respect and collegiality we have for one another is what has made our careers so enjoyable. We could not be more thrilled to see future generations share this kindred spirit” said Linda DiVall, founder of American Viewpoint. DiVall was inducted into the AAPC Hall of Fame in 2021.

Former President of AAPC and Foundation Board Member Rose Kapolczynski spearheaded creating this scholarship program with the support of the Foundation Board of Trustees.

“As a pioneering woman pollster who has risen to work on the most important national Democratic campaigns, Celinda Lake has been a role model for so many women in politics,” said Kapolczynski.

Becki Donatelli, President of the AAPC Foundation, said “Linda’s unwavering determination and innovative approach not only redefined the boundaries of success, but also inspired countless women to break barriers and make their mark in the world of political consulting.”

To learn more about the AAPC Foundation, or to support the next generation of future women in political consulting, click here.