WASHINGTON, D.C. — This fall, Belmont Abbey College is launching its American Semester at the Belmont House – an academic and formation program in Washington, D.C., designed to prepare students for principled leadership and policy engagement.
Open to sophomores, juniors and seniors, the American Semester will allow students to immerse themselves in specialized coursework on Catholic social teaching while completing full-time internships with congressional offices, federal agencies and policy organizations.
Located just steps from the U.S. Capitol, the Belmont House was created to build community, support lay apostolates, bring together thought leaders, and provide programs with concrete implications for public service. In addition to academic programs, it offers a residency program for Catholic undergraduates interning in Washington.
“The Belmont House experience has shown me what it looks like to live my faith in public service,” said Hannah Martin, a Belmont Abbey College senior participating in the program through an internship with Clare Boothe Luce Center for Conservative Women. “Between my internship at the Luce Center and the formation we receive here, I’ve learned that Catholic teaching isn’t just theoretical and that it can guide how we approach real policy decisions that affect people’s lives.”
As Belmont Abbey College President Dr. Jeffrey Talley said, “The Belmont House exemplifies our mission as a Catholic Benedictine College, which is to order the hearts and minds of students to Christ as they serve in the world as competent professionals. In a city where decisions shape the lives of millions, our students learn to act with conscience, courage and conviction.”
American Semester students will participate in an internship and a lecture series led by public and academic leaders and have options for additional coursework.
“Through our collaborations and discussion events, we facilitate meaningful professional opportunities for students,” said Emmett J. McGroarty, executive director of Belmont House. “We’re excited that the American Semester is open to students from across the country. In extending this hospitality, we draw on 1,500 years of Benedictine tradition of seeking truth and building the Mystical Body of Christ.”
“The Belmont House functions as a trusted resource where Catholic social teaching shapes public discourse,” he added. “It is a place where future leaders are formed to bring moral clarity and faithful witness to the public square.”
— Trish Stukbauer and Belmont Abbey College
More online
At www.belmontabbeycollege.edu/belmonthouse/american-semester: Learn more about Belmont Abbey College’s American Semester