TILSON WELCOMES AMERICAN INTERN

June 09, 2009

PARLIAMENT HILL – David Tilson, Member of Parliament for Dufferin-Caledon, has been participating in the United States-Canadian Parliamentary Internship Program. Mr. Tilson welcomed Whitney Nicole Howard from Franklin, Indiana, on May 25th, to his Ottawa office.

Ms. Howard is currently attending Franklin College, in Franklin Indiana. She is a third year student, who is obtaining her undergraduate degree in American Studies with minors in Psychology, Political Science, International Relations, and History.

During her time in Mr. Tilson’s office, Ms. Howard has learned about Canadian politics, culture, and food. She has also assisted Mr. Tilson with the preparation of speeches, reports, columns, and other communications materials.

“This whole experience has been very rewarding,” said Ms. Howard. “As an outsider looking in, I have witnessed many similarities and differences between both countries. I personally love the diversity in Canadian citizens and the Canadian Government, compared to what is found in the U.S. However, that’s what makes this world so great – there can be multiple ways of governing ourselves and it’s nice to take a step back and look at different perspectives.”

When asked for his thoughts on the program, Mr. Tilson had stated, “I have participated in this program for several years now and it’s been an excellent experience. Whitney has made many wonderful contributions to my office through both her work and by sharing her perspectives with me and my staff on various bilateral issues. She was a pleasure to have and I hope my office has given her an enjoyable Canadian experience.”

Ms. Howard will complete her five-week internship on June 12th and will be returning to the U.S., where she will spend the remainder of her summer working, running, and reading before she starts Residence Assistant, at Franklin College, in early August.