First-year food science and technology major, Fatima Madero, is spending her spring semester interning with Nebraskans for the Arts (NFTA), supporting arts advocacy across Nebraska! Madero’s most significant contribution has been planning and organizing the Arts Advocacy Day at the Nebraska State Capitol. Working closely with NFTA’s Executive Director, Dr. Nielson, she helped plan logistics, coordinate with external audiences, and organize over 120 advocacy folders for Nebraska senators, the governor, and other attendees. On event day, she also served as a photographer capturing key moments for social media and the NFTA website. “Through this hands-on experience, I’m building a foundation in policy, organization, and strategic communication- skills that will support me in making an impact beyond the arts sector,” she shared. After the conclusion of the event, she will transition to legislative monitoring, tracking key bills and providing updates on testimony dates and votes affecting the arts. Madero will also use her voice to bring awareness to these key issues and advocate through forums and the NFTA social media. “This experience has strengthened my ability to communicate complex issues, manage large-scale projects, and understand how advocacy influences policy,” she said. “These skills are essential for my future in food science, where I hope to drive conversations around food accessibility, public health, and industry innovation.”