Communications Intern (October - December, 2026)

The Institute for Higher Education Policy (IHEP) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan research, policy, and advocacy organization committed to building a more equitable and just society through higher education. Through research, advocacy, policy development, and field engagement, IHEP drives systemic change in higher education to advance equitable outcomes and generational impact for communities historically marginalized on the basis of race, ethnicity or income.

 ABOUT THE POSITION:

IHEP is seeking a communications intern to join our team for the fall term (October - December, 2026). The communications and government affairs team amplifies the impact of our research and policy work by creating strategic communications to reach key audiences. IHEP focuses on federal, state, and institutional policies related to racial and socioeconomic equity; postsecondary data and transparency; college access, affordability, success, and value; and projects that further the practical application of promising practices that drive postsecondary attainment for all students, particularly Black, Latinx, Indigenous, and underserved Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) students and students from low-income backgrounds. We do this through strategic use of both online and offline mechanisms, including traditional press engagement, editorial content development, digital and multimedia, and advocacy materials/efforts to reach specific audiences, including policymakers. In this role, interns are likely to participate in team and staff meetings, play a key role in developing and executing our communications strategies. The communications intern will collaborate with researchers, policy analysts, and other staff to translate complex research findings into clear and compelling messages for diverse audiences.

Although IHEP is headquartered in Washington, D.C., we operate fully remotely on a day-to-day basis and welcome remote applicants for this position.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Social Media Management: Assist in developing and implementing social media strategies to amplify IHEP research, drive engagement, and engage with our target audiences.
• Media Relations: Support media outreach efforts by tracking news coverage of state and federal higher education issues and policies, drafting talking points, pitching stories that highlight IHEP’s research and expertise, and supporting relationships with journalists.
• Data Analysis: Analyze social media performance, email marketing metrics, and website traffic to measure the effectiveness of communication campaigns and identify areas for improvement.
• Content Creation: As opportunities arise, develop creative and engaging content for various communications channels, including social media, website, newsletters, and/or blog posts.
• Event Support: Assist with promoting and supporting external presentations, events, and convenings by creating materials and managing logistics (as needed).
• Other tasks that support efforts to increase understanding of the need for improved access to and success in higher education.

QUALIFICATIONS and EXPERIENCES:
We are looking for a combination of the following skills and experience:

• Availability to work 20-25 hours per week October through December, 2026.
• A strong writer with excellent oral and written communications skills and the ability to craft clear and concise messages for diverse audiences.
• Interest in and/or familiarity with strategic communications, public policy, social media (LinkedIn and X) and/or public relations.
• Experience writing outside of academia, for example: blog posts, newsletters, for a school or local paper, etc.
• Desire to work in an equity-minded, advocacy environment, and an interest in education policy and/or practice.
• A critical thinker who is self-motivated and able to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Excellent organizational and follow-through skills, attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Proficiency in MS Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Preferred, but not required:
  • Knowledge of communications platforms (e.g., Wordpress, Constant Contact, Canva, Google Analytics, Cision).
  • Experience or study in graphic design.

WORKING at IHEP:

IHEP recognizes that a talented and inclusive workforce of people with diverse backgrounds and experiences benefits individuals, partners, and IHEP as a whole. We recognize that all employees bring their own capabilities, experiences, and characteristics to their work. IHEP believes in treating all individuals with respect and dignity and strives to achieve a supportive environment in which all employees reach their maximum potential. The wide array of perspectives promotes innovation and business success, further supporting the organization’s mission.

IHEP values a healthy work-life balance and offers sick and holiday pay, flexible work arrangements, and a $100 technology stipend. Salary is commensurate with experience and the hourly pay range for our internship program is $20-24 per hour.

Employees must reside and work within the United States. IHEP is not able to sponsor work authorization; therefore, candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship. 

HOW TO APPLY:

Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience. Interested candidates should apply through this site and provide:

1. a cover letter
2. a resume
3. a list of at least three references (including at least one direct supervisor)

We will review applications on a rolling basis, with a priority deadline to apply by September 18, 2026.  

The Institute for Higher Education Policy is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages inclusion in all facets of the organization’s work.

IHEP participates in E-Verify and confirms all employees are authorized to work in the United States through a Form I-9. For more about your right to work, see this information from the Immigrant and Employee Rights Section of the Department of Justice.