We are thrilled to welcome our 2026 Legislative Intern!

Legislative Interns assist in our efforts to pass our top legislative priorities over the course of the 90-day session, with the goal of building a more equitable and inclusive democracy here in the state of Maryland. Read more and get to know them below:

Ihemanma Ugo-Akwada

Pronouns: She/They
School: University of Maryland, College Park
Major: Public Policy with a concentration in International Relations and Policy

Hi, my name is Ihemanma Ugo-Akwada. I am a senior at the University of Maryland, College Park, majoring in public policy with a focus on international relations. I aspire to work in international development and infrastructure projects, particularly with organizations like the United Nations Development Programme, to support the redevelopment of weakened political, economic, and social structures and facilitate positive change around the globe.

I am a Spring 2026 legislative intern at Common Cause Maryland, where I work on advocacy and legislative work related to voting rights, redistricting, and democracy reform. My responsibilities include planning and executing events such as Lobby Night, supporting outreach to volunteers and coalitions, and assisting with legislative research and policy development. Through this internship, I am gaining hands-on experience in the Maryland legislative process.