Charles B. Rangel International Affairs Program

It is with deep regret that we announce the untimely passing of 2014 Rangel Fellow Alum, Moises Mendoza. The Rangel Program and our extended community offer our sincere condolences to his family.

We mourn the passing of Congressman Charles B. Rangel, a prominent figure in American politics and diplomacy. As the namesake of the Charles B. Rangel International Affairs Program, Congressman Rangel dedicated his life to public service and strengthening America’s role in the world.

His vision led to the creation of a program that has opened doors for countless aspiring leaders to represent the United States with integrity and excellence. We are deeply grateful for his commitment to service and to preparing the next generation of global leaders.

Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who were impacted by his remarkable life. We will continue to honor his legacy through our mission and work.

It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Madeline (Maddie) Kleinschmidt, a beloved member of the 2022 Rangel Summer Enrichment Program cohort. Maddie passed on April 19th in Cuenca, Spain, at the age of 26. Originally from Kenai, Alaska, Maddie graduated with honors, earning a bachelor's degree in international business from West Texas A&M University. With her Venezuelan and German roots, she embraced a truly global perspective that enriched every endeavor she pursued. Before embarking on her Fulbright journey, Maddie was proud to serve as a Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) Public Policy Fellow, where she merged her business acumen with her passion for supporting small businesses and democracy on a worldwide scale.

Her commitment to international affairs was further highlighted by her internships at the State Department’s Bureau of Populations, Refugees, and Migration and the Public Affairs Office of the U.S. Embassy in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Maddie also volunteered as an ESL teacher for adult refugees and made significant contributions as a U.S. Cultural Orientation intern, focusing on transitional justice during her time as a McNair Scholar. In 2023-2024, Maddie served as a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant at Space Quixote in Cuenca, Spain. Following her ETA year, she continued her impactful work with FabLab Cuenca, where she coordinated initiatives to empower local makers and learners. Our deepest condolences go out to Maddie’s family, friends, and everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her unwavering passion for diplomacy and contributing to the global greater good will forever embody the spirit of the Rangel Summer Enrichment Program community.

2024 Rangel Scholar and University of Georgia student Jocelyn Castro reflects on the unique value and impact of the people-to-people connections she cultivated through SEP. Apply today for by the February 5th deadline! apply.rangelprogram.org

Only one week left to apply for the Summer Enrichment Program! This is a unique opportunity for undergraduate students who are interested in exploring careers and professional networks in international affairs. Apply today for by the February 5th deadline: apply.rangelprogram.org

Did you know that Rangel Summer Enrichment Program Scholars take two for-credit courses and a writing seminar? These courses and seminar are designed to expand their content knowledge and writing abilities in preparation for careers in the international affairs field. Apply today for : apply.rangelprogram.org

2024 Rangel Scholar and Louisiana State University student Alexis White reflects on how SEP exposed her to the diverse range of skills that helped prepare her for an internship in the international affairs sector. Apply today for : apply.rangelprogram.org

The Rangel Program invites you to attend a webinar on drafting personal and financial needs statements for the 2025 Summer Enrichment Program application. We look forward to connecting with you then! Register at rangelprogram.org/events/.

Are you an undergraduate student attending an HBCU? Are you interested in learning more about careers in the Department of State and within the international affairs sector? Join us in a presentation for the HBCU community to learn more about the unique opportunities of the 2025 Rangel Summer Enrichment Program! Register at rangelprogram.org/events/

The 2025 Summer Enrichment Program application deadline is just less than a month away! Check out these common application mistakes to avoid as you review and finalize your materials. Be sure to submit your application by February 5th at 11:59pm EST! apply.rangelprogram.org

Apply to be a Rangel Scholar and explore current issues and trends in international affairs, gain a greater understanding of international affairs career opportunities, and better understand the knowledge and skills needed to pursue such careers. Apply today for : apply.rangelprogram.org

Join Rangel Staff and Rangel Summer Enrichment Program Alumni in a webinar to learn practical tips for ensuring your recommenders write a letter of recommendation that best showcases your background, skills, and the impact you want to have in your community. Register at rangelprogram.org/events/