2024-2025 Forge Mentorship Academy Class

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Pate Anglin is a finance major at East Tennessee State University and graduate of the Atlas Institute for business Pate plans on attending seminary for pastoral ministry upon graduation, but also enjoys politics and business. He is the co-founder of Students for Abolition, which seeks to advocate for the abolition of abortion through education, activism, and evangelism

Kaylee Ashley is 19 years old and a freshman at Northwest Arkansas Community College. She lives in Northwest Arkansas and is the event intern at Counteract USA. She is trusting God with what her future holds in whatever career He calls her to She loves the Lord and has a passion for learning more about Him, making Him known, and standing for Biblical truth Kaylee loves politics, the outdoors, health, family, and friends Her life verse is Romans 12:2 "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect "

Collin Bonnie is an ambassador for the Herzog Foundation. Herzog works to advance Christian education in states all across the nation while helping educators and their students Collin also spends time knocking on doors and promoting strong conservative candidates across the Midwest.

Fernando Bravo is excited to settle into Canton, Georgia, where he’s focused on investing in God’s kingdom through meaningful conversations and serving in his local church Originally from Portland, Oregon, and a recent graduate of Hillsdale College in Michigan, Fernando’s diverse experiences and Hispanic upbringing have fostered a deep appreciation for the “timeless and good things of life,” such as big band music, carne asada tacos, jazz, great books, the Book of Common Prayer, American history, and, of course, the Bible. Wherever he goes, Fernando strives to participate in a loving community of believers and never misses an opportunity to burn calories on the dance floor or embark on a spontaneous adventure!

Naomi Bromke is a law student at the University of North Dakota School of Law. She is a writer for the New Guard Press, a board member of a conservative non-profit, and an advocate for judicial transparency. Naomi has a passion for taking complicated law topics and court cases and portraying them in a way that the general public can understand

Macy Brookhouser is currently pursuing a general business degree in college Alongside her academic journey, she works as a social media coordinator at Blue Moon Bentonville and is interning in the social media department with Convention of States Macy has participated in mission trips to Nepal and serves in children’s church. Although she’s still uncertain about her future career path, she’s excited to see where the Lord leads her

Julia Campbell is a passionate, young Christian conservative currently attending Liberty Online University and majoring in apologetics and cultural engagement She hosts a podcast, is on Counteract USA’s curriculum writing team, and is involved in her local cell She hopes to become a Biblical Studies Professor, author, and speaker while being involved in politics however the Lord leads

Georgia Chapa is a junior political science student at Texas A&M University She is a member of the Corps of Cadets, Fightin' Texas Aggie Band, First Sergeant in the Corps Recruiting Company, Young Women for America Ambassador, and most importantly is a devout Christian Her passions lie with defending the unborn, and through her leadership in college she has learned she thrives best in face to face leadership roles.

Sara Contreras is a New York City native and rising junior at Hunter College. She is majoring in Human Biology with a concentration in Body, Mind, and Health and a minor in Chemistry An aspiring neurosurgeon hoping to specialize in pediatrics, she is eager to provide the compassionate and ethical care found sorely lacking among the health professionals who served her sick family members Recognizing the important role that healthcare policy plays in patient care, she aims to use her on-the-ground knowledge of healthcare in America to back her advocacy for healthcare reform.

Abigail DeJarnatt is the founder and CEO of Counteract USA, a 501(c)(3) non-profit ministry with a mission to equip young Christians to apply Biblical truth to cultural and political issues. Her “why” is to see the church engage in and influence culture for the Gospel of Jesus Christ Abigail was born and raised in Northwest Arkansas, where she currently lives and does full-time ministry with Counteract USA: writing, hosting the Counteract Podcast, and speaking to young Christians and conservatives across the country, encouraging them to be bold for the Biblical truth, no matter the cost.

Mark den Hollander is an English Major and Classical education minor at Hillsdale College He is involved in the education movement and understands that in order to be part of education, the current state of politics must be understood. Mark works with Christian Council International as a USA representative to better understand international politics.

Pursuing a career in law and public policy, Atlanta native Lindsey Dernavich is currently earning her degree in Political Science and History at Samford University. Through various internships with civil litigation and lobbying firms, a stint working for a Member of the UK Parliament, and an internship under Judge Stephen Dillard at the Georgia Court of Appeals, Lindsey has developed a strong foundation in legislative processes and judicial interpretation. Following her graduation in May 2025, Lindsey is preparing to attend law school as well as enter the workforce in state legislatures to contribute to meaningful conservative policy development and family advocacy

Born and raised in the great state of Texas, Susannah Ely studies political theory and journalism at Patrick Henry College in Virginia. She enjoys vintage fashion, classical music, and strong coffee You can often find her reading God’s Word and spending time with her seven younger siblings. Susannah's work has been featured in New Guard Press and The Federalist. She writes on femininity, politics, and history.

David Korn is currently a 1L law student at Arizona State University Law. After he graduates, David wants to pursue corporate law and constitutional litigation David's undergraduate was in Government: Politics and Policy at Liberty University. Born and raised in Flagstaff, AZ, he enjoys all the typical mountain town activities like hiking, kayaking, and running

Ian Foster grew up in the rural suburb of Smithville, MO. He graduated from the University of Missouri with a Bachelor's of Science in Mechanical Engineering He has spent time working in a variety of industries, including medical device manufacturing, food and beverage, and non-profit organizations. Additionally, he's part of the founding team on an early-stage defense startup and holds a provisional patent As of the summer of 2024, Ian works as an Ambassador for the Herzog Foundation, focused on the advancement of Christian education. Ian is driven by an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for business and innovation

Seth Gowen is an aspiring Real Estate developer currently studying at Dallas College He's President of his campus's Phi Theta Kappa chapter and is an already accomplished young man in multiple aspects of the Real Estate business. Seth's time before college was spent interning for a private development firm on an acquisition research team, and he eventually obtained a Realtor's license in Texas at 19 where he leased and sold client's properties Outside of his academics and career, Seth campaigns for local, statewide, and national political candidates with the Dallas County Republican party where he also served as a Precinct Chairman in the 2022-2024 term.

Jaylynn Hall is currently an Ambassador with the Herzog Foundation in Smithville, MO. She graduated from College of the Ozarks in May with a degree in Accounting Three hobbies of hers include reading, running, and camping with her family. Jaylynn’s mission in life is that people would know they are fully known and loved by their Creator

Abigail Heaston currently resides in Perrysburg, OH. She attended Liberty University and is working towards a degree in International Relations and Government She works with businesses to merge prayer alongside marketplace. She is passionate about defending marriage,family and children. She desires to change laws that affect people who have been in human trafficking or are sexual abuse survivors She is excited to be a part of Forge and to collaborate with like minded believers to take a stand for truth in this generation.

A native Texan and K-12 homeschooler, Wyatt Henry grew up in the middle of all things politics through TeenPact, NCFCA Debate, Texas Boys State, and now Forge Currently, Wyatt is a senior majoring in International Business at Houston Christian University and aims to build a career post graduation that bridges the gap between business and politics to better his community, while also prioritizing a healthy personal and family life. Wyatt’s hobbies include all things outdoors (sports, hunting, fishing, etc.), spending time with family and friends, and participating in church activities and mission trips

Daniel Hince is a Junior, History pre-law major at Longwood University in Virginia. He coleads a campus Christian ministry called Invitation To Freedom and strengthens interministry relations through a collaborative organization called Longwood United Daniel serves as a Resident Assistant and intramural referee at Longwood, fostering positive experiences among students in their living spaces and through athletics He enjoys spending time outdoors, singing, and helping others make connections and try new things.

Maggie Jernas is currently pursuing two bachelor's degrees in Political Science and Broadcasting from Cedarville University She is passionate about the pro-life movement and freeing kids from sex slavery. She is looking forward to seeing what God has in store for her through Forge and the years to come. She loves books and people so feel free to reach out to her because she would love to get to know you better

Ty Keller is a Senior at Ohio Christian University. During his time at OCU, he has worked in Student Development as both the Student Body President and the Lead Male Disciple He has also been apart of the baseball team at OCU. Carrying the life of student athlete and student leader, Ty has loved working with others to get things done and enhance the culture and community at the university

Riley Lang is a bubbiy extravert who enjoys achieving difficult goals Whether it be graduating from an extremely liberal university as a Christian conservative, or running a pro-life club on said university. Riley graduated with her degree in English and currently works as the Marketing and Events Coordinator for a prominent Real Estate Agency in North Atlanta, who participates in many community service projects. She is most passionate about defending the lives on the unborn and supporting American families in social conservative policies

Carter Langhofer is currently a government finance analyst for the Reason Foundation He has served in this role since graduating from Patrick Henry College in May, 2024 Carter is an aspiring lawyer, and hopes to attend law school in 2025. He is an avid piano player, theology nerd, and a massive fan of the Kansas City Chiefs

John Larson is a freshman at Pensacola Christian College He is ambitious and driven and always looks for ways to get involved He is very passionate about local politics and wants to find ways to influence the political sphere, particularly in his home state of Kansas John is also an entrepreneur and enjoys exploring new business ventures and ideas.

Samantha Lehner works full time at the Center for Christian Virtue. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Ohio University's E W Scripps School of Journalism She is a public relations and communications professional passionate about public policy, reform and philanthropic work. A native of Johnstown, Ohio, Samantha is the second oldest of 4 children and loves spending time with her close-knit family and volunteering at her local church. In her free time, Samantha enjoys reading, dining at new restaurants, advocating for the pro-life generation and she serves as the Secretary on the board of the Young Republicans of Licking County

Erin Leone is a student at the George Washington University studying International Affairs with a minor in GIS In her time in DC, she has interned in the U S Senate and House, at the Heritage Foundation’s Center for National Defense, and with CPI Studios She loves to learn, write, and produce meaningful work, and is most passionate about defense, military, and international security issues. She is President of NeW at George Washington University and loves to encourage other conservative women. Aside from working and going to school in Washington, Erin loves to run middle to long distances and has her own photography business.

Spencer LeStrange is a senior Theology and Philosophy major at Franciscan University in Steubenville, OH. Originally from Tampa, FL, he is the youngest of five children. He loves to spend time outdoors immersed in creation and be drawn into wonder about the beauty of the life he has been given.

Darcy Mitchell is a current graduate assistant for Dr. Monty Lobb at Ohio Christian University working towards her dual MBA and MA in Ministry For her undergrad, she attended OCU graduating in '24 with her degree in interdisciplinary studies with concentrations in leadership and coaching In her first four years at OCU, she was a starter, captain, and/or chaplain for the women's basketball and soccer teams. She was also a student leader in charge of planning campus events, a tutor, and a co-founder and co-leader of an Athletes in Action chapter Darcy is passionate about reflecting Christ in all she does while pursuing excellence in every area.

Isaac Monday is a proud patriot and strong Christian. He is passionate about making men masculine again, a strong reason why he currently works for Wears Valley Ranch, a Christian children's home in Tennessee dedicated to house, school, and raise children from crisis homes. Isaac aspires to be a great father of many one day, just as his dad was to him He is enthusiastic to be a Forge student and make a tangible difference in America so that future generations can live at peace in the Land of the Free.

Nate Mundy is a passionate and driven community leader who hopes to inspire and connect young people to make a difference in their community. He was elected to the West Carrollton, OH school board in 2021 and currently serves as vice president, making him one of the youngest elected officials in the state Nate also is on the board of Pirate Packs, West Carrollton Education Foundation, Hope 4 West Carrollton, and is the Treasurer for West Carrollton Lions Club. In his free time he helps other organizations that serve his district to help make a positive change in his community

Janae Myers is the Senior Student Recruiter and Volunteer Coordinator at God's Bible School & College She will be graduating in 2025 with a Bachelors in Business and Political Science In the spring of 2025, she has accepted an internship at The Heritage Foundation in their professional development department. Her passions are Christ, conservative policy, and grassroots politics. She loves networking and making genuine connections with people Her favorite quote is by Eleanor Roosevelt, “Light a candle, instead of cursing the darkness”. She tries to live that quote each day.

Chloe is a junior at Hillsdale College majoring in History and Religion. She's from the mountains of Washington state and loves kayaking, hiking, and being out in God’s creation! As a student at Hillsdale, Chloe enjoys being a Resident Assistant, co-hosting a conservative podcast called Against the Tide, competing with Hillsdale’s Mock Trial team, working in Career Services as a Career Coach, and serving with her brothers and sisters in Christ for campus ministries.

Leah O’Donnell is a member of Hillsdale College’s Class of 2024 with a history major, Spanish minor, and participation in the music department. In her home state of West Virginia, her education began through homeschooling and later continued in a private academy. As pastimes, she enjoys reading a range of books, swimming in the summer heat, and walking with her dogs in nature.

Cassalyn Orr is a sophomore at Ohio Christian University where she studies business with a concentration in digital multi-media production. She serves as an ambassador for Young Women for America and has held a variety of leadership roles on her campus

Cassalyn is passionate about glorifying God and doing her part to contribute to a better country for our future children.

Faith Ozenbaugh is the National Director of Young Women for America (YWA), a project of Concerned Women for America (CWA), the nation's largest public policy organization for women Through discipleship and leadership training, the program equips conservative, Christian women to advocate for biblical values and constitutional principles on their campuses and in their communities. Faith is a recent graduate of California Baptist University (CBU) where she studied Public Relations and Biblical Counseling She was the founding president of YWA Inland Empire and the co-president of the University Choir and Orchestra during her time at CBU. Before moving full-time to Washington, D.C., she interned for several conservative organizations including CWA and Alliance Defending Freedom

Allie Paris is the co-founder and COO of Counteract USA. She graduated college in 2022 with a degree in Business Marketing She uses the skills she learned from college and her internships to now plan events, fundraise, work on strategic partnerships, along with marketing strategies and more for Counteract USA She loves spending time with her family and friends, going to rodeos, making pizza, and traveling! Above all else she is a girl who loves Jesus, and wants others to know Him too!

Abi-Ananiah Prudent is a dedicated Christ-follower who has found purpose in proclaiming Christ's name in all spaces. Because she recognizes the kindness of the Lord to invite her into his presence, she seeks to make his name known to all those around her. At a young age, she learned that those who serve also need to have their cups filled and, as a result, she has dedicated time to pursuing how to connect with those leaders. Whether it be law enforcement, teachers, or nonprofit leaders, Abi-Ananiah seeks to advocate for the physical, mental, and spiritual needs of leaders nationwide.

Ella Rapp is a student at Ohio Christian University While earning her degree in business administration, she is also involved in many other extracurriculars both on campus and at home in Dayton, Ohio She is passionate about striving to become a better leader and future businesswoman by diving deeper into her walk with the Lord and sharing it with others who need the light of Jesus in their lives.

Esther Rea is from a small town called Nevada, Missouri She recently graduated from College of the Ozarks, located near Branson, Missouri She spent her time on campus studying public relations and working in the PR Office as her on-campus job. She loves biking, walking, playing pickle ball - really anything outside! She is always looking for adventures to go on with her friends and family!

Pyrce Renfroe is a sophomore at College of the Ozarks, studying public relations and marketing A lifelong Arkansan, he is committed to making a positive impact in his state through politics and advocacy. Pyrce leads pro-life efforts statewide, focusing on legislative and grassroots initiatives that bring new people into the pro-life movement As the Alumni Advisor to the Arkansas Teenage Republicans, he helps engage and encourage youth involvement in politics. As a Policy Associate at Opportunity Arkansas, Pyrce gained further experience in working with the legislature to improve his state through education and safety net reform. In his free time, you can find Pyrce running his photography business, reading, and playing the occasional video game.

Julian Scheiman is a college student from Ashland Ohio. Majoring in Political Science and Political Economy, Julian is passionate about conservatism and faith in public life Having canvassed for both JD Vance and Bernie Moreno's Campaign, Julian cares deeply about the practical success of conservatism in our republic. His aspirations are to work in either the state or federal government on conservative laws and earn the grassroots victories that affect people's lives.

Georgina Simonson is a proud native of South Florida. She was always very patriotic but never expected volunteering at a local grassroots organization would be the catalyst to the politically involved journey that she has been on so far She majored in marketing at Florida Atlantic University but is even more proud of her High School, Boca Christian, as it solidified her world view and introduced her to many of the friends and mentors she loves to this day. She loves being outdoors, trying new things, music, food, and spending time with her friends and family. A fun fact about her is that she is Native American, an official member of the Potawatomi Tribe

Madelyn Stout is an Ambassador for the Herzog Foundation, where she helps fulfill their mission to support K-12 Christian Education across the country She is a proud alumna of the University of Notre Dame, where she graduated with a degree in Political Science, English, and Constitutional Studies. As a student, Madelyn was a Tocqueville Fellow with the Center for Citizenship and Constitutional Government and a Sorin Fellow with the de Nicola Center for Ethics and Culture at Notre Dame She has interned twice in the Executive Office of Governor Ron DeSantis. However, while she will always call Florida home, she currently resides in Kansas City - where she loves to bake and read during her free time.

Dominic Vitale is a senior at Ave Maria University One of his gifts is engaging others to cultivate the heart of America toward God. Dominic came to Forge because he wanted to be sharpened by fellow conservatives, especially in the skill of arguing for the ideas that are true In his free time, Dominic loves playing sports and camping

Lauren Walsh is a lover and follower of Jesus, holds strong conservative values, and deeply loves people. She is majoring in communication at Liberty University and is in the graduating class of 2026. With a background in speech and debate, she enjoys thoughtful discussions and exchanging varying theological and political viewpoints In addition to her studies, job, and spending time with friends, she delights in playing guitar, swing dancing, watching the sun set, baking, worship nights, coffee dates, going on walks, and loving on animals (especially her golden retriever, Gracie).

Luke, a native of Alexandria, Virginia, and devout Presbyterian, is the middle of five children and was homeschooled. Now a student at Hillsdale College, he is deeply involved in the Christian conservative movement and mentors men struggling with pornography and other soul-sucking activities of the world, guiding them to revive godly masculinity. He leads Legio XII Fulminata, teaching dancing lessons, leading cold plunges, Bible and book studies, combat training, and off-grid living skills He also founded the Reformed Student Fellowship, the first distinctly Reformed Protestant ministry on campus. Luke’s mission is to shape anti-fragile men, liberating them from sin and mediocrity, and helping them pursue virtuous, Christ-centered lives with purpose and strength.

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