Thomas S. Foley Institute for Public Policy and Public Service
Learn. Serve. Lead.
Advancing democracy through education, research, and public service.
Upcoming News and events
- The 2026 midterm elections are over. How do Washingtonians want elected leaders to govern? Read our new analysis of survey findings co-authored by Foley director Thessalia Merivaki and Foley Fellow Carah Ong Whaley here.
- Tuesday, November 17, 12pm, Pullman. Election Observation: Non-partisan observers and the midterms with Daniel Bruce.
- Have a question about the election? Check out our Ask the Foley Institute!
At a Glance
- Established in 1995 to honor Speaker Thomas S. Foley, 49th Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives
- Provides 40–50 internships each year in Congress, the Washington Legislature, campaigns, and public agencies
- Home to annual public events reaching 3,000–4,000 people statewide
- Supports research and scholarship on public policy and democratic institutions through fellowships, professorships, and conferences
Student Opportunities
- Internships: Real-world experience in legislative offices, campaigns, and agencies
- Scholarships: Support for undergraduates preparing for careers in public service
- Mentorship: Faculty and professional networks that connect learning to leadership
Research & Scholarship
- Endowed Professorships: Supporting faculty expertise in public policy and democratic institutions
- Fellowships & Grants: Advancing student and faculty-led research projects
- Collaborations: Sponsoring interdisciplinary research conferences and partnerships across fields
Public Engagement
- Lectures & Symposia: Bringing national leaders, policymakers, and scholars to campus and the state
- Conferences: Creating spaces for dialogue on pressing issues in democracy and governance
- Community Reach: Thousands of participants annually, connecting students and the public to civic life
- Publications: Sharing insights and impact through the Foley Report and annual magazine
We are a non-partisan public policy institute, focused on bringing world class speakers to our public events; supporting student internships in public service; and supporting scholarly research on public policy and political institutions. We invite you to join us. Please stop by the Foley Institute on the 3rd floor of Bryan Hall, WSU Pullman.