Amir Mason CC'29 & Chaeeun Yoo CC'29 named Roosevelt Institute Forge Fellows!

Congratulations to Amir Mason CC'29 & Chaeeun Yoo CC'29, 2026 Roosevelt Network Forge Fellows!

The Roosevelt Institute's new Forge Fellowship serves as the entry point to the Roosevelt Network for students. Forge is the Network's introductory program for first-year and sophomore students who are just starting out in their understanding of policy. Supported by Network staff and multiple mentors, Forge Fellows engage in foundational policy skills training and leadership development programming.

Amir Mason CC'29 plans to study Urban Studies and Political Science. The Forge Fellowship first piqued his interest for its work bridging the gap between grassroots passion and high-level policy, making society and policy work better for everyone. He hopes the program will bolster his foundational research and policy analysis skills. The fellowship runs from June to December 2026, comprising a 7-8 week summer "Boot Camp," an in-person event at Hyde Park in July to engage with the broader Roosevelt ecosystem, and a dedicated fall semester of advocacy training. Amir is looking forward to completing a capstone policy analysis project, allowing him to apply technical tools like power mapping and coalition building to address systemic inequities in the built environment.

Chaeeun Yoo CC'29 plans to study History and English. She was drawn to the Roosevelt Institute’s mission of advancing humane, impact-driven approaches to public policy. By learning how to approach policy-making through an equitable and inclusive lens, Chaeeun believe this experience will teach her how to ensure that marginalized voices are not only heard and considered, but also uplifted and atoned. She hopes the fellowship will provide her with the technical skills necessary for effective policy development, such as critical analysis and strategic planning. The leadership development aspect of the program is especially appealing to her, and she anticipates that working on skills such as empathy, integrity, and vision will empower her to contribute meaningfully to societal change and inspire others to do the same.