Legislative internship awarded to NAU student at Glendale Community College

Courtney Pigaga credits her Northern Arizona University degree program offered at Glendale Community College for helping her secure an internship with the Arizona Legislature.

Pigaga, who is earning a Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies with an emphasis in Organizational Communication, recently was chosen as a legislative intern for the 2012 spring semester.

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Courtney Pigaga, an NAU speech communication major through NAU-Extended Campuses at Glendale Community College is now serving as a legislative intern.

Pigaga said her learning experience through NAU-Extended Campuses prepared her for the intern opportunity, where she is conducting research and analyzing proposed legislation. She also is earning 12 credit hours, a $4,200 stipend and a tuition waiver.

Pigaga considers public service the ultimate form of civic engagement and is honored to represent NAU in supporting her state officials.

"The classes I have taken at NAU, including mediation and conflict, advanced presentation skills, leadership within organizations and cultural diversity, can be applied to this internship," Pigaga said. "I have been exposed to positive leadership and a scope of viewpoints I could never have experienced otherwise."

NAU's School of Communication lead faculty at GCC Marie Baker-Ohler said, "I am so proud of Courtney. I have no doubt that Courtney will make a significant difference in this new role. She is a dedicated, driven and compassionate student and team member. This opportunity will allow her to apply her skills and excel."

Pigaga plans to graduate in 2012 and hopes to pursue a master's degree and a career at a state agency.

To learn more about how to earn an NAU degree at one of the university's 35 campuses, visit nau.edu/extended or speak with an NAU Service Center representative at (800) 426-8315.