Two Concordia students, Rodrigo Pérez Novelo '25 and Mariana Martins Carvalho '26, are participating in the Minnesota Capitol Pathways program to gain experience in local government. 

“opens access to policymaking and public service to the next generation of leaders who are Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). With the long-term goal of making Minnesota state government and policymaking more representative of diverse communities.”

Pérez Novelo is pursuing a double major in political science and global studies with a concentration in global systems and processes. As an international student who has experienced nature’s magnificence across North America, including Cuba’s shores and Mexico’s colonial architecture, Pérez Novelo has a unique continental perspective on environmental conservation. His travels through these diverse landscapes have strengthened his resolve to preserve both natural and cultural heritage for future generations.

As a Capitol Pathways Fellow, Pérez Novelo is working with the Great Plains Institute’s Transportation and Fuels program.

“I chose the Great Plains Institute for its extensive reach in sustainability initiatives and its team of driven professionals committed to environmental transformation,” he said. “I hope to gain firsthand experience in the legislative process while contributing to Minnesota’s sustainable development initiatives.”

Martins Carvalho is an international student double majoring in computer science and communication studies. As a Capitol Pathways Fellow, she is working with , an organization that tackles “the dual threats of accelerated climate change and unprecedented biodiversity loss.”

 

Written by Alyssa Czernek '25