Joshua is a first generation college student majoring in Public Relations at the University of Cincinnati His favorite career experience was interning with the Anthony Muñoz Foundation. His favorite past time is spending time with his family and riding his quarter horse, Freckles. Joshua has faced many challenges in life including losing his father at 14 years old It was from this loss that Joshua gained a valuable task: using the time he has on earth to make a lasting impact on the lives around him Joshua hopes to establish a non-profit that provides young adults the building blocks for cultivating workplace ministry.
Josiah is a dedicated Christian, music enthusiast, and an aspiring entrepreneur He plans to complete college and use his degree to further his endeavors in software development. Forge has enabled him to network with a plethora of individuals who will guide him along his journey
Brayden Byrne is an Eagle Scout and Christian who has worked in several schools and ministries in the service of others He seeks to enter journalism and the public service, with the goal to serve others, share the gospel, and defend objective truth in a world that despises it. Brayden is interested in theology, politics, and the variance of cultures.
As a Sociology graduate student at the University of Illinois - Chicago, Saidy is fascinated by the role government plays in producing cultural frameworks and, conversely, how cultural actors can garner mass consent for government power(s). Saidy is blessed with the gift of teaching and has served children in her church’s Sunday School She intends on combining her teaching gift with her interest in government and culture to provide urban communities with programs that target pervasive government influences and degenerate cultures She aims to open an urban-based school “New Creations”, and serve as an Education & Family Legislative Consultant for local and state leaders.
Jeremias Contreras is a devout Christian looking to combine faith and technology to kindle revival in whichever industry God calls him to. Combining his creative and analytical mind, this Brooklyn (NY) native has taught himself fine art, graphic design, computer programming, photography, and video editing. He is working towards his Business Management degree in hopes of merging all his knowledge to serve the vulnerable, such as foster youth, victims of sex trafficking, and the needy On his free time, you can find him playing tennis, making YouTube videos, and drumming at his church every Sunday
Esther's mission is to empower young classical musicians to discover and develop their unique potential in artistry, faith, and leadership. Growing up as a missionary in Spain, she trained in professional music conservatories in Málaga before returning to the USA to pursue advanced studies at the Peabody Institute. After graduating in 2021, Esther settled in Colorado Springs, where she teaches classical music, performs as a cellist and pianist, and serves in her local church Esther is also creating a special training program for classical musicians that develops rigorous artistic excellence, moral character, and professionalism from a civically conservative, Judeo-Christian worldview
Emma DelGrosso is a sophomore at Cedarville University. She plans to major in history with hopes of becoming a museum curator someday She was a competitive dancer for 15 years and now teaches dance classes at a local studio. Emma is an avid reader and lover of history. She hopes to preserve the history that is being attacked and stripped from our schools
Duncan S DeMarsh is a 3rd Generation Floridian, a Legislative Aide in the Florida House of Representatives (HD-30), and a Commissioned Officer in the Florida Army National Guard. Duncan is a previous employee of Ron DeSantis' Gubernatorial Re-Election Campaign and of the Republican Party of Florida (RPOF) and previously served as the Chairman of the Florida Federation of Teenage Republicans. Duncan graduated from James Madison University with a B.A. in Political Science and Stetson University with his Master of Business Administration
Alex is a native of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, and he is studying accounting at Samford University. Alex has a passion for sports, working on cars, and spending time with his family. One day, Alex hopes to own his own business in the automotive industry.
Anderson James Dickey: a proud Christian who will stand for his faith and beliefs. 18 years old, current Samford University student Athlete, sports enthusiast, energetic and fun lover. Someone who is passionate about getting to know people and make a positive impact in their life.
Zoë is a Politics, Philosophy, and Economics student who attended The King's College before it closed in the summer of 2023 She is passionate about law, journalism, history, and coffee. She hopes to attend law school after finishing her undergraduate degree, and study Constitutional and civil law
Rebekah Flanders, or Bek as friends and family call her, is the seventh born of twelve children. Raised and homeschooled in Texas, she has a love for her home state, country and quality education Following in the footsteps of her father and older siblings, and greatly inspired by WWII vet Desmond Doss, she decided to pursue a career in the medical field Now working as an RN, Bek hopes to eventually take her God given skills abroad (10/40 window) and serve with organizations like Samaritans Purse and the Free Burma Rangers. As an older sister to five and aunt to twenty+ she has a passion for protecting the young and holding medical providers accountable to first do no harm
Austin Gergens a capitol news reporter for Michigan News Source in the Wolverine State. He graduated from Hillsdale College, located in the cornfields of southern Michigan There he studied Literature and Journalism while also developing his hockey skills during the unending winter months. He has served as a charter school teacher for Valor Public Schools in Austin, TX where he taught middle school English and American history. During the weekends, he enjoys exploring the Michigan backwoods and beaches.
Delaney Greim graduated from Benedictine College in 2023 with a Bachelors in Journalism and Mass Communications. She is currently an Ambassador of The Herzog Foundation, where she strives to accelerate K-12 Christian education across America. Her hobbies include dancing, tennis, or spending time with her 9 siblings
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
Davis Hale is currently working on his Masters in Business Administration at Lee University in East Tennessee. Having attended the Atlas Institute, an entrepreneurial residency, in the summer of 2023, Davis aspires to start his own product-based company in the future He also has a love for architecture, traveling, good movies, and anything that takes him off the beaten path. Above it all, his faith leads and guides him wherever he goes in politics, business, or life
Bradley Haley hails from a small town along the Ohio River in Southeastern Ohio. He is currently a student at Hillsdale College in Michigan, and plans to attend law school after completing his undergraduate degree. Bradley is at his best when he is analyzing complicated texts or developing creative solutions to problems In his free time he enjoys hunting, fishing, writing, reading old books, playing music, and various sports
An Eagle Scout at a young age, Taylor felt called to minister in the political field from his teen years. He worked on multiple different campaigns, including Brian Kemp’s successful 2018 Gubernatorial race He also promoted out of the International ALERT Academy in Texas, helped operate several small businesses, and ran a congressional campaign, before joining Frontline Policy Council as a Policy Associate during the 2021 legislative session Taylor now serves as Director of Advocacy for Frontline, whose goal is to protect Christian and Family values in the realms of politics, policy, and culture in the state of Georgia.
Elizabeth Holland is a recent graduate from Georgetown University's Walsh School of Foreign Service She graduated with a B S F S in International Politics and a minor in Theology. Elizabeth plans to attend law school in the near future and has a strong interest in studying international and constitutional law. As a Christian, she is convicted that she should use her career to help others Elizabeth hopes to combine her passion for her faith and interest in the law to make America and the world a better place.
Lane Hufford is a senior at Ohio Christian University. Lane is pursuing a Political Science major with a concentration on organizational leadership with a business minor He has volunteered multiple times for Samaritan’s Purse ministries, and has also interned with an Ohio State Representative throughout high school and college. He seeks to work within the nonprofit or state government sector when he graduates from OCU in 2024 He also aspires to be involved within governmental relations or lobbying after graduating
Isaac Kantola is a current junior at Liberty University, where he studies business/marketing and the social sciences. He currently serves as the Communications Director for Liberty's Student Government Association, and plans to pursue a career in either communications or academia. His previous roles include a woodworking small business, a maintenance role, and a Digital Productions Intern at the Heritage Foundation. He enjoys reading, backpacking, and mountain climbing. He originally hails from Michigan, and has two younger brothers.
Elisha Kenniv is a freshman at Sinclair Community College studying video production. She hopes to transfer to Hillsdale College next fall to pursue a degree in history and philosophy. It is her dream to co-host a podcast to teach the next generation to think critically and learn from the past. Elisha is a follower of Christ and is determined to spread the Gospel wherever the Lord sends her!
Jacob Kersey is a podcast host, former Georgia police officer, and FRC Action's Operations Coordinator In 2022 he joined a local police department, a fulfillment of his childhood dream to become a police officer. In January of 2023, he resigned from his position as a police officer after being placed on leave for sharing his Christian belief on marriage on his private Facebook page Jacob has a passion for history, theology, and religious liberty.
Breanna Kinsey graduated from Ohio University in 2020 with a Bachelors Degree in Communications. She worked for a consulting company for two years writing grants for non-profits, planning events and doing fundraising. Currently, she serves on staff with Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) in Coshocton County, where she leads Bible studies, youth and community events, and seeks to reach her community for Christ. In her role with FCA, Breanna interacts with various community leaders and strives to be aware of the political climate affecting the schools where she serves
Libby Krieger is a political and crisis communications consultant in Columbus, Ohio She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Grove City College with degrees in Political Science and Communication Arts. Before entering consulting, Libby gained experiences in grassroots activism, conservative non-profits, and political journalism
Anna Lamoreaux is from Lebanon, Ohio and is a current sophomore at Hillsdale College where she runs track and will either major in history or American Studies Anna loves learning about American history, the character of those who founded this great nation, and their ideas that have helped the American experiment succeed She thanks God for the opportunity to be apart of the Forge Academy of 2024 and cannot wait to continue to grow and learn about herself, her country, and God.
Jenna Larson graduated from Bob Jones University located in Greenville, SC with a bachelors degree in elementary education She currently uses this degree as a 3rd grade teacher working at the public school in her hometown, which is located in Kansas. She believes her degree, partnered with her experience in the field of education will help prepare her for her future in politics As schools are responsible for preparing the future generation of leaders in our country, Jenna is motivated to seek improvements to the education system that will help those raised in it be prepared to lead and secure the freedoms we enjoy in America
Simone Mahan is a Columbus native who currently works for the Ohio Senate as a Legislative Service Commission fellow. Before joining the fellowship, Simone attended Miami University where she received degrees in public health policy and organizational leadership. Her background is in epidemiological research and adult health promotion. Simone is passionate about advocating for women’s health policy and bringing a Christcentered worldview into her field
Elizabeth Martin is a junior at Miami University, studying Professional Writing and Strategic Communications Her favorite classes include Rhetorical Strategies for Writers, Digital Writing and Rhetoric, and Strategic Communication Writing. Elizabeth is an editor for The Miami Student Magazine and is involved in an organization called Cru. Cru’s mission is to help students live a life empowered by the Holy Spirit while building up leaders to fulfill the Great Commission. Cru has allowed Elizabeth to lead a weekly Bible study of twelve girls, where they have intentional conversations and dive deep into God’s word
Bridget McCaughey is a driven student of Political Science and Economics currently attending Christendom College in Virginia She grew up Nashville, Tennessee, and has been blessed by her Christian faith and large family. From a young age, she has possessed a strong desire to defend these core values that later inspired her current major and career goals. Bridget plans to pursue the truth by investing in the conservative movement to create a social environment conducive to justice, virtue, and living in reality
Sarah is a small business owner living near Dallas, TX. She specializes in sales, forming connections with people online via social media, social media growth, and networking/recruiting. She loves sports, anything design-related, pilates, beaches and meeting new people.
Jasper Murphy is currently working towards a B A in Theology from Boyce College and a M.Div. from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has a desire to lead and to teach people about God's Holy Infallible Word. He is a lover of Reformed Theology, and is also passionate about the unborn He has lead a group from his church to Washington D.C. for the March For Life. He is a car enthusiast, his 1979 Malibu is lovingly named Laverne. "When I think I'm unfairly hated, I try to remember that I'm unfairly loved."R C Sproul
Kathrynne is a freshman at Middle Tennessee State University studying business As the oldest of six kids, she has a passion for Jesus, serving others, foster care, and special needs. In her free time, she loves tennis, hanging out with friends, challenging people to really understand what they believe and why they believe it, starting and dreaming up new entrepreneurial ideas, pouring into her many middle school mentees, and traveling. At 15, her first job was a paid internship for Bill Hagerty's U.S. Senate Campaign This taught her valuable skills that she now uses in her multiple leadership positions at work and in the community
Annabelle Pechmann is a Strategic Communications major at Liberty University and a southern conservative who wants to serve Jesus Christ through non-for-profit ministry. She is in the beginning stages of her ministry, Reclaimed Living, and is thankful for the growth she has experienced by attending the Forge Leadership Summit in Nashville. She is ready to learn more as she enjoys growing in new areas, experiencing different cultures, having adventures, and challenging herself as a Christian Besides these, she likes incorporating conservatism and apologetics to help the public understand them. Most importantly, she loves people and knowing their stories, from family to strangers.
Gabriella Peck is a senior at Liberty University She is organized, detail-oriented, and does her work with excellence. Gabriella has a servant heart, which is evident in her services at various church events, conferences, missions trips, camps, and volunteer opportunities Gabriella is hospitable, has an artistic perspective, and a passion to make things look pleasing to the eye. These certain characteristics about Gabriella plays a role in her interest for the events field
Ashley Poole is a student of Applied Mathematics at Hillsdale College Ashley plans to use her liberal arts education as a foundation for a career in law. Ashley’s firsthand experience working with survivors of human trafficking in Houston, Texas and passion for survivor care motivates her desire to serve in criminal prosecution. Furthermore, Ashley invested in her home of Houston through policy work in the County Judge’s Office and a United States Congressional Office Ashley looks forward to utilizing these experiences to serve her community, preserve the Constitution, and empower other student leaders.
Jacob Reese is a political science major at Grove City College A member of the class 2026, Mr Reese hails from Maidencreek, Pennsylvania He is a GCC Trustee Scholar, receiving one of twenty-four academic scholarships for the college’s highest-performing students. His interests include constitutional law, politics, public policy, political philosophy, and foreign affairs During the summer of 2023, Mr Reese served as a legal intern at Cornerstone Law Firm, a general practice law firm based in Berks County, PA. Mr. Reese aspires to pursue a career in the legal or public policy arena.
Aaron Retych is an Ohio native and a Senior at Cleveland State University studying Mechanical Engineering Technologies He enjoys working on machines, reading, discussing politics, and weightlifting. In his free-time, Aaron also plays banjo in a local bluegrass band His favorite authors/commentators are Francis Schaeffer, Mark Levin, Denis Prager, and William F Buckley Jr
Clay Robinson is currently is an Operations and Communications Coordinator for Winged Victory Agency, a Phoenix-based consulting firm. He was previously at the Resolute Group where he developed and executed messaging for political candidates and non-profit clients Clay also worked at Camelback Strategy Group where he crafted and implemented design and branding strategies to elevate client profiles. In 2021, he co-founded the Western Tribune, a digital publication with a mission to restore local journalism in the American Southwest. Clay also serves in the Arizona Army National Guard and is currently a graduate student at the Thunderbird School of Global Management.
Chloe Satterfield is a junior at Georgia Tech studying Public Policy and Pre-Law She is originally from Cartersville, Georgia. Upon graduation, she hopes to attend law school and become a civil litigation and public interest attorney in her home state. Chloe is passionate about science and technology policy, aviation, and state politics On campus, she enjoys being a part of a social sorority, SGA, campus ministry, and various political organizations, including Young Women for America Her favorite hobbies include tennis, reading, hiking, and trying new restaurants!
Benjiman Schlegel is a young entrepreneur and evangelist who is seeking to reach the world for Jesus through innovative paths such as building digital spaces in virtual & augmented reality as well as being a full-time content creator for both his local church and personal brand. Law & government has always had a piece of his soul as he enjoys studying current events and keeping up with national and local legislation
Ethan Schmidt is a follower of Christ. He grew up in Richland, Missouri and knows a thing or two about rural living and living within one's means He is always determined to see the good work reach its end and will help anyone out along the way. He studied History and Political Science at SBU in Bolivar, MO from 2017-2021 graduating Summa cum laude After school he sought to join Eric Schmitt's bid for US Senate helping to secure the big win in the 2022 cycle. In the summer of 2023 he joined the Ambassador program at the Herzog Foundation in Smithville, Missouri whose goal is to catalyze and accelerate K-12 Christian education across the United States.
Cora Smith is a senior at James Madison University pursuing a bachelor's degree in Intelligence Analysis with a minor in Geographic Science. Cora is an active member of the Delta Phi Epsilon Foreign Service Society and director of communications for Amnesty International at JMU Cora has worked on producing supply chain threat assessments for C2Integration. As part of completing her capstone deliverables, Cora is currently sponsored by NSA to complete analyses on Chinese biotechnology threats and implications. In her free time Cora enjoys cooking, baking, watching sunsets, and Ohio State football.
Tristan is a twenty-year-old college student studying political science at Chula Vista Christian University. The oldest of four children, he was originally born in Penang, Malaysia, and lived in Shanghai, China for five years before moving to America with his family. Tristan resides in San Diego, CA, and works part-time as the Resource Manager for Well Versed, a non-profit ministry In his spare time, Tristan Iove to listen to political podcasts, watch movies, read, and work out in the gym. He is also a passionate soccer fan, and his favorite team is FC Barcelona.
Jeremiah Thompson graduated from Wheaton College (IL) with a BA in Communication: Media Studies He is currently working in IT for Sub-Zero Group but is passionate about conservative media. He already has professional experience editing the Forge Leadership Podcast. He is married to his college sweetheart Hannah and they live in Madison, Wisconsin with their dog, Nugget
Bria Tijerina is from McClure Ohio. She attended Bluffton University for two years where she played collegiate volleyball and is majoring in communication and media with a minor in Spanish She is currently taking classes online while she launches her own business. She is very passionate about helping others, affecting culture in a positive way and living a life that honors God.
Gabrielle Tornow is a student at Liberty University completing her B S in Government: Politics and Policy in Fall of 2023. She has a passion for serving people and helping heal the deep division of our nation. Gabrielle believes sports are an important cultural avenue to bringing people together, which is why she plans to pursue a career in sports law representing and advocating for the interests of athletes and fans.
Arianna Villarreal, a college sophomore, studies Economics and International Studies. She serves as Student Government Vice-President and recently received the Erin Tierney Kramp Scholarship in recognition of her leadership. Arianna's upbringing took her through four Latin American countries before settling in Dallas in 2015. At The Highlands School, she held roles such as Student Body President, Pro-Life Club President, Varsity Basketball captain, and Mission Youth Leader. She received the Integer Award, the highest recognition for a Highlands graduate Arianna also has a keen interest in politics, contributing to Congresswoman Van Duyne's Youth Advisory Council and campaign.
Megan Vitale is a student at Ave Maria University, where she is studying Mathematics. She is a board member for Ave Maria’s YAF chapter As a Live Action Ambassador, Megan helps fundraise for Ave Maria’s Pro-Life club on campus In her free time, she enjoys participating in intramural sports, hanging out with friends, and participating in campus events Prior to College, Megan was the President and co-founder of a Students for Life Chapter back home.
Daniel Watson is from Pickens, South Carolina. He graduated from the Cyber Academy of South Carolina in 2021 as valedictorian Daniel then went on to study business administration at Southern Wesleyan University on a full ride academic scholarship. He will graduate in May of 2024 His post-graduate plan is to attend University of South Carolina Law School. Daniel is passionate about history, foreign policy, global economics, and politics. He hopes to one day hold public office in South Carolina.
Ginger Wiens is a 2022 graduate of Grand Canyon University, holding a bachelor's degree in Communications. With a strong passion for media and a desire to work within a Christian environment, Ginger aspires to lead and inspire teams in creating meaningful content that aligns with her faith and values She's on a dedicated path to creating a brighter future for the next generation.
Aidan is a sophomore at Liberty University studying Politics and Policy. Shaped through the lens of his Catholic Faith, he holds a deep and relentless passion for solving systemic issues ranging from education, immigration, public safety, climate change, and so much more. Aidan loves interacting with people of diverse views on political ideology, culture, religion, and self expression.
