Dr. Paul Nolette, associate professor of political science in the Klingler College of Arts and Sciences, has served as the director of the Les Aspin program for over 18 months. During this time, he has worked to introduce sweeping changes aimed at creating a more accessible and meaningful experience for students interested in life in Washington, D.C.
While he has been assisting the growth of the Les Aspin program since 2011, Nolette’s new role has allowed him to further develop the program into a transformative experience for students.
Upon arriving in Washington, D.C., students can expect to engage in a full semester’s worth of courses, complemented by an internship placement in the D.C. area. The diverse internships offered by the Les Aspin program cater to any major, regardless of academic discipline. While some students may work on Capitol Hill with politicians, others pursue experiences with nonprofits, private businesses and international affairs. For instance, some students have interned for companies such as the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America, while others have taken more traditional positions.
“It’s not just about politics; there’s really great opportunities for students to do a range of different things in D.C.,” says Nolette. He highlights that one student currently works for the James W. Foley Legacy Foundation, a journalistic nonprofit foundation pioneered by Diane Foley — Marquette’s 2025 undergraduate Commencement speaker.
The Washington, D.C., experience extends far beyond the academic semester as “over 50 alumni work on Capitol Hill at any given time” according to Nolette. Les Aspin alumni have continued to support the program while developing strong careers ever since the program’s inception over 35 years ago. Between transformative education and an active alumni network, the Les Aspin program equips students with skills to succeed in professional job placement that speaks to their vocation.
Starting in 2025, Nolette will introduce semester themes to the program to highlight a specific area of work and education within Washington, D.C. The fall 2025 semester will explore the topics of banking, economics and finance, while the spring 2026 semester will center on international affairs and diplomacy.
“There’s no part of the university, no discipline, that’s untouched by public policy or D.C. This program is not just for students going into government, but for any student who wants to get a better understanding of the world around them.”
Dr. Paul Nollete, director of the Les Aspin Center for Government
If an internship is not for you, the Les Aspin Center features a new two-week course in May with no internship component. With D.C. sight visits and a focus on applicable skills, two intensive two-week courses will focus on the history and humanities surrounding our nation’s capital.
Dr. Leah Flack, professor of English, will teach about literature and memory, while Dr. Sarah Gendron, chair of languages, literatures and cultures and professor of French, will teach on the influence of propaganda.
This new immersive learning experience engages students with D.C. as a city and a center for policy, equipping them with worldly skills that will flourish long after graduation. Students interested in this program should apply online.
“We hope this experience will get students to think about what it means, not just to get a job, but really to get a vocation that they’re called to that they’re going to thrive in and enjoy.” says Nolette. “This is an opportunity for students to really reflect upon themselves in a different environment, contributing their talents and skills to better the world in a variety of ways.”
For more information on the Les Aspin Center for Government please fill out this brief questionnaire or explore their website.
