West Fargo grads serve as Dorgan interns

Scott Brand, a recent University of North Dakota graduate from West Fargo, and Alison Kelly a student at UND, also from West Fargo, have completed a three-month internship with U.S. Senator Byron Dorgan (D-ND) in his Washington, D.C., office.

Brand provided legislative support in the office, concentrating on energy and financial market regulation issues. As an intern, he had the opportunity to attend congressional and Senate floor proceedings, conduct Capitol tours, assist in office management, and conduct legislative research.

During her time in Washington, D.C., Kelly worked alongside Senator Dorgan's press staff. She had the opportunity to write press releases, attend press conferences and committee hearings, conduct legislative research, observe Senate floor speeches, and assist North Dakota constituents.

"An internship is a wonderful way to gain first-hand experience that cannot be taught in the classroom," said Dorgan. "Interns have the unique opportunity to see our government at work and to make a difference in people's lives - all at a young age."

Brand is a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom and graduated from UND in the spring of 2009 with a degree in Political Science. He will attend UND Law School in the fall.

"The internship allowed me not only to learn more about the legislative process, but to also be a working part of it," noted Brand. "Getting to work with Senator Dorgan and his staff and to see how diligently they work for North Dakota was an honor of a lifetime."

Brand graduated from West Fargo High School and is the son of Bruce and Debbie Brand.

Kelly will graduate from UND in the spring of 2010 with a degree in Communications and minor in Political Science.

"I really enjoyed the time I spent working for Senator Dorgan. I have learned a great deal and look forward to using the skills and knowledge I gained while in D.C. in the future," Kelly said.

Kelly graduated from West Fargo High School and is the daughter of Mark and Jane Kelly.