Summer Intern, E Pluribus Unum: Executive Office
6Overview
Emerson Collective (EC) is a company of investors, changemakers, creative thinkers, and problem solvers working to make a lasting mark on the world.
For our summer internship, we’re looking for college students who think big, are eager to take on challenges, and are ready to collaborate with their teams and with one another.
Emerson Collective’s summer internship program places rising college sophomores, juniors, and seniors - and, for select opportunities, recent college graduates - in paid internship opportunities across Emerson Collective and our longstanding nonprofit partners XQ Institute, E Pluribus Unum, and Chicago CRED.
Candidates may apply to a maximum of three positions. Any additional submissions will not be considered.
The Opportunity
E Pluribus Unum (EPU) works with leaders and communities across the American South, equipping them with tools, programs, and support to bridge divides and foster connections across differences.
As an Executive Office intern, you’ll work closely with senior leadership, gaining valuable experience in nonprofit management, strategic operations, and organizational governance. You will assist with administrative tasks, project coordination, strategic planning, research, and communication efforts that support the organization’s mission.
Role and Responsibilities
- Provide general administrative assistance to the Executive Director and senior leadership, including scheduling meetings, preparing materials, managing communications, and maintaining records.
- Assist in organizing meetings and other executive functions, including drafting agendas, taking notes, and following up on action items.
- Conduct research on topics relevant to the organization’s programs, initiatives, and funding opportunities, and summarize findings for senior leadership.
- Assist with the coordination and execution of special projects, including event planning, program development, and outreach efforts.
- Maintain and organize documents, records, and files in both digital and physical formats, ensuring confidentiality and accessibility.
- Support daily office operations, such as answering calls, managing office supplies, and assisting with any ad-hoc requests from the Executive Office.
Qualifications, Skills, and Requirements
- Rising undergraduate junior or senior, preferably pursuing a degree in public policy, nonprofit management, or a related field.
- Strong research and data analysis skills.
- Demonstrated interest in nonprofit work, community development, and social impact.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to write clear, concise reports and summaries, and engage in briefings and cross-functional discussions with colleagues and external partners.
- Proactive and resourceful problem solver with a collaborative approach to teamwork.
- Interest in bringing people together across the American South to address shared challenges through dialogue, leadership, and collaborative problem-solving.
Application Questions:
- What draws you to E Pluribus Unum’s mission to bring people together across the American South and strengthen communities through shared understanding and collaboration? Please describe any skills, experiences, or past projects that have shaped your interest in this work. (Please answer in 250 words or less)
- What do you hope to gain from this internship, and how do you see it shaping your professional journey moving forward? (Please answer in 250 words or less)
Internship Details
The internship is onsite, 40 hours per week from June 15 through August 7, 2026. A mandatory paid virtual onboarding and orientation will take place June 10 - 12.
Compensation
- All interns are paid $25 per hour and can expect to work 40 hours per week from June 15 to August 7 (eight weeks).
- Interns will also be paid $25 per hour for onboarding and orientation sessions taking place June 10–12.
- All interns receive a lunch allowance and a commuter allowance, and may also receive travel and housing allowances as needed.
Key Dates
- November 18 - January 6: Internship applications accepted, and interviews commence on a rolling basis (Please note that not all applicants will be selected for interviews.)
- January 12 - March 7: Interviews continue, and offers are extended
- June 10-12: Mandatory virtual onboarding and orientation
- June 15: Internship program begins
- August 7: Internship program concludes