Ashtyn Daniel, Hess Fellow

I am from Prattville, Alabama. I was raised as a non-denominational Christian, but for the past couple of years, I have been involved in institutions related to the United Methodist Church. I attend Birmingham-Southern College (a Methodist university) in Birmingham, Alabama, and I am currently pursuing an undergraduate degree with a major in religion and a minor in English writing.

I felt led to intern with Church and Society due to the dual emphasis on faith and advocacy, topics I am passionate about. Regarding my work at Church & Society, my priority area will focus on Peace with an emphasis on economic justice. My work at Church and Society relates to my future vocation as a journalist. The research process will educate me on various topics and allow me to understand how various policies affect people.

Before interning at Church & Society, one of the past experiences that shaped me was taking a class named Homelessness in Birmingham. This class exposed me to how poverty and homelessness are systemically ingrained within the United States. Additionally, this class allowed me to understand better ways poverty can be eliminated. I am thankful to be interning at Church and Society, and I look forward to the impact I can make while I am here.