Communications Intern (October - December, 2026)

Institute for Higher Education Policy•Washington, DC

5d•$20 - $24•Remote

About The Position

The Institute for Higher Education Policy (IHEP) is seeking a communications intern 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. This is achieved 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. Interns are likely to participate in team and staff meetings and play a key role in developing and executing 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., the organization operates fully remotely on a day-to-day basis, and remote applicants are welcome for this position.

Requirements

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).
Must reside and work within the United States.
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of communications platforms (e.g., Wordpress, Constant Contact, Canva, Google Analytics, Cision).
Experience or study in graphic design.

Responsibilities

Assist in developing and implementing social media strategies to amplify IHEP research, drive engagement, and engage with our target audiences.
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.
Analyze social media performance, email marketing metrics, and website traffic to measure the effectiveness of communication campaigns and identify areas for improvement.
As opportunities arise, develop creative and engaging content for various communications channels, including social media, website, newsletters, and/or blog posts.
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.