Issuu

2026-2027

FORGE ACADEMY

Forge Academy by the Numbers 2026–2027

56 Academy Members

States

SUMMITS

WHERE OUR MEMBERS CALL HOME Ohio

Missouri

Tennessee

Georgia

Texas

Alabama

Indiana

Arkansas

Colorado

Florida

Pennsylvania

Washington, D.C.

Arizona

California

Idaho

Kentucky

Michigan

Minnesota

New York

Virginia

Washington

Wisconsin

LUKE ANGLIN TENNESSEE

Luke works with American Values Investments, is involved in building a tech startup, and helps lead Students for Abolition. He is especially interested in grassroots organizing, Christian political engagement and theory, evangelism, and abortion policy. He hopes to continue expanding Students for Abolition, grow professionally and entrepreneurially, potentially pursue seminary, and eventually marry and raise a large family.

MERIDITH ANGLIN TENNESSEE

Meridith is involved with Students for Abolition, particularly supporting its strategy and long-term development. She is interested in eventually writing and advocating on public policy involving biotechnology and emerging technologies and sees herself primarily as an advocate, researcher, or source of expertise. She is also interested in policy surrounding automated license plate readers and hopes to start a family while continuing her work alongside Students for Abolition.

MAGDALENA BANWEG OHIO

Magdalena is entering her sophomore year at Hillsdale College, where she studies Politics and French. She hopes to become a Christian conservative voice in foreign policy and international relations, potentially working for the State Department or a related organization in research, policy writing, or implementation. She plans to study abroad in France, pursue policy internships, and eventually spend a semester studying and interning in Washington, D.C.

KADY BINSBACHER ARIZONA

Kady works at the Arizona State Senate and is interested in shaping policy at the state and local levels. She sees herself developing as a policy advisor who uses research and evidence to advance effective policy while serving as a resource to others seeking to bring a Christian worldview into public life. She plans to continue professional development and build relationships with policymakers and legislative staff in Arizona and other states.

FORGE ACADEMY · 2026–2027

LYDIA BROWN ARKANSAS

Lydia plans to double major in Political Science and Strategic Communications. Her experience on Senator John Boozmanʼs̓ Youth Cabinet strengthened her interest in policy, communications, leadership, and organizational management. During college, she hopes to pursue government or policy internships while developing the skills necessary to help lead the communications, logistics, and operations of campaigns or political organizations.

ISAIAH CALLARMAN MICHIGAN

Isaiah is completing an M.A. in Politics at Hillsdale Collegeʼs̓ Van Andel Graduate School of Statesmanship and lives in southern Michigan with his wife and two daughters. He sees his vocation as honoring Christ through public service and Christian institutions, with particular interest in state-level public policy, nonprofit or educational leadership, and potentially higher education later in his career. After finishing his masterʼs̓ degree, he is considering work in the Michigan Legislature or at Hillsdale.

AZARIA CARPENTER COLORADO

Azaria will begin her bachelor’s degree online in January, while gaining experience in the legal field and exploring a future in government and legislation. She is interning in development for a conservative organization in D.C. and is considering working as a paralegal before transitioning into a government role such as a legislative aide or other support position. She is particularly interested in developing her public speaking and learning to defend her beliefs clearly and persuasively.

KYLE CORNET OHIO

Kyle Cornet is a 23-year-old from Northeast Ohio who currently works as an Operations Associate at a commercial service company. He has a background in banking, business, news media, and real estate and is passionate about leadership, community involvement, and continued professional growth. His Catholic faith and Christian values are central to who he is and shape how he approaches service, responsibility, and leadership. Kyle hopes to become more involved in his community, build relationships, and develop the skills to make a positive impact wherever he is called to serve. FORGE ACADEMY · 2026–2027

CALLI CURTIS ALABAMA

Calli is beginning a role as the North Alabama Club America Field Representative with Turning Point USA, where she will engage and equip high school students. She is especially interested in the intersection of faith and politics and hopes eventually to return to Washington, D.C., potentially to work in the White House Faith Office. She sees her long-term work as an opportunity to advance truth, serve others, and develop principled leaders.

TIERNA D’ARCY TENNESSEE

Tierna recently graduated from college and joined The Daily Signal as a Digital Fellow in Washington, D.C., where she is gaining experience in political communications and digital media. She is interested in communications, advocacy, and public service as ways to shape culture and public policy while remaining grounded in her Christian faith. She is also recently engaged and plans to marry in summer 2027.

ARCTURA DIFFENDERFER PENNSYLVANIA

Arctura works with a Christian chamber and consulting group and is particularly interested in the relationship between legislation, small businesses, and economic growth in Pennsylvania. She hopes to become more involved in her local community, work with nonprofits to improve civic literacy among small-business owners, and continue building relationships through her professional work.

ADDYSON EGGERS CALIFORNIA

Addyson is pursuing a Political Science degree and expects to graduate in 2028 while competing in collegiate cross-country and distance track. She also works part time in local government and is active with Young Republicans, a campus prolife organization, Republican Women, and the American Petroleum Institute. She hopes to build a career in California public policy and legislation, particularly around education, abortion, and practical state and local policy challenges.

FORGE ACADEMY · 2026–2027

CALEB ELMORE ALABAMA

Caleb is entering his senior year at the University of Alabama and plans to attend graduate school and earn his CPA. His Summit experience increased his interest in Alabama state politics, particularly the legislative process, and he is exploring how his educational and professional background could eventually be applied to public policy and state government.

NATHAN EMSLIE TEXAS

Nathan is moving back to San Antonio to teach ninth-grade Humane Letters at a classical charter school. He is interested in classical education, civic engagement, and becoming involved in local or state campaigns, potentially while starting a civics organization at his school. He is also considering law school and plans to gain exposure to the legal profession before deciding whether to pursue that path.

JONATHAN EVANS WASHINGTON

Jonathan is entering his junior year at Hillsdale College, where he studies Economics, and has begun preparing for the LSAT. He plans to spend a future semester studying in Washington, D.C., and hopes to intern at a policy organization such as the Heritage Foundation or Cato Institute. He is interested in building evidence for policy reform through research or eventually working as a constitutional lawyer.

PATRICK FOOS VIRGINIA

Patrick is returning to Liberty University, where he will continue his studies while taking on new campus leadership positions. After graduation, he hopes to begin his career at a think tank, on Capitol Hill, or elsewhere in the conservative movement, likely beginning his search in Washington, D.C. Long term, he is interested in leading an effective conservative organization focused on a defined portfolio of public-policy issues.

FORGE ACADEMY · 2026–2027

WILLIAM FREESTONE VIRGINIA

William Freestone is a storyteller, filmmaker, and voice actor. He specializes in writing, logistics and support, and public speaking. In high school, he was nationally competitive in speech, and carried that passion into college, participating in Mock Trial and Enactus, an international sustainable development competition. Will graduated from Regent University with a degree in Film and Television and a minor in Communications. He currently works as an Ambassador for the Herzog Foundation, traveling the country to assist the foundation’s mission of furthering the development of quality Christian K-12 education.

BROCK GENZ FLORIDA/TEXAS

Brock is pursuing degrees in Finance and Marketing with a minor in Political Science at TCU. He is focused on building a strong Texas College Republicans chapter and creating opportunities for students to engage in civic life and leadership. Long term, he plans to attend law school and pursue a career at the intersection of law, public policy, and public leadership.

AMERICA SOPHIA GEORGE MISSOURI

America currently serves as an Ambassador with the Herzog Foundation and plans to continue over the coming year. At Stanford University, she was a life group leader for Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship, Editor-in-Chief of Vox Clara Journal, and Financial Officer for Veritas Forum. Passionate about mission-driven work, she is exploring a career in development at a Christian nonprofit or ministry, while remaining open to other opportunities that align with her faith and sense of purpose.

ELIZABETH GIJSBERTSEN TEXAS

Elizabeth is entering her senior year at Baylor University and hopes to move to Washington, D.C., after graduation. She is interested in working either in the Trump administration or at the Heritage Foundation and eventually hopes to work in the White House. She sees her interest in government as closely connected to her Christian faith and desire to advocate for causes consistent with it.

FORGE ACADEMY · 2026–2027

ATARAH GRANT GEORGIA

Atarah is finishing a Political Science degree with a concentration in Global Security Studies and is pursuing a career in political strategy and crisis communications. She is particularly interested in strengthening conservative communications infrastructure and helping candidates and organizations communicate effectively during high-pressure moments. She is also writing a book aimed at young conservatives and college students that combines personal experience with practical frameworks for political engagement.

ASHER GRAVES ARKANSAS

Asher is pursuing a bachelorʼs̓ degree in Mechanical Engineering at Arkansas Tech University and is seeking internship opportunities in the field. Professionally, he expects to build a career in mechanical engineering while remaining involved in local politics. He is particularly interested in helping his hometown address infrastructure and economic-development challenges, including securing resources needed to attract and retain local businesses.

AUNIKA GROAT MISSOURI/FLORIDA

Aunika is pursuing a double major in commercial entrepreneurship and Political Science along with a masterʼs̓ degree in Applied American Politics and Policy at Florida State University. She hopes to begin her career as a legislative staffer and eventually become a chief of staff before transitioning into entrepreneurship or startups. She is particularly interested in pro-life policy, community-building businesses, and using business success to support Christian and conservative causes.

GABE GUIDARINI OHIO

Gabe currently works full time as Ohio Field Representative for Turning Point Action. Previously, he served as Chairman of the Ohio College Republican Federation from 2025-2026, and as Acting President of the College Republicans of America during the 2024 election cycle. He is considering running for elected office in a future cycle or potentially launching an advocacy organization focused on issues he believes are currently neglected.

FORGE ACADEMY · 2026–2027

AIDAN HAGGARD OHIO

Aidan is a Junior at Ashland University, Studying Political Science and Classical Learning. He works for the Ashland County Prosecuting Attorney’s Officer in the civil division as a Legal Assistant to the First Assistant Prosecuting Attorney. Aidan ran for The Ohio State House 66th House District while in college. Through this opportunity, he has learned to appreciate the law and hopes to go to Law School in 2028. The highlight of his career hopes to be having the honor of being a federal judge.

MICAH JACOBS MISSOURI

Micah is currently completing the Herzog Foundation Ambassador program, which runs through June 2027. She is interested in building a career in the pro-life and profamily movement, particularly advocating for mothers and children. Her professional goals are closely connected to her longer-term desire to become a wife and mother.

NICK KAMMERZELL GEORGIA ·

Nick is an insurance underwriter and recent graduate of the University of Georgia. Though his day job may label him a corporate drone, he remains actively engaged in the public arena. At UGA, he founded a Young Americans for Freedom chapter that became the fourth-ranked in the nation within a year. He has worked on political campaigns since high school, including Governor Kemp’s 2022 race, and is currently involved with Rick Jackson’s campaign and Frontline Policy Council’s HQ mentorship program. Nick also serves as a production contractor at his local church, where he enjoys investing in his community.

DANIEL KEYES TEXAS/KENTUCKY

Daniel plans to attend Asbury University in Kentucky and is interested in eventually pursuing a career in constitutional law or the judiciary. While remaining open to where his faith leads him, he could envision becoming a constitutional lawyer, judge, or justice and sees the legal profession as a potential avenue for long-term public service.

FORGE ACADEMY · 2026–2027

GRACE KIMMERLING INDIANA

Grace is a third year law student who’s passionate about re-engaging Christians in the public square. She intends to use her legal training to empower lay people to impact the schools, government, and needs in their communities. She’s currently serving as an interim program director for LifeWise Academy.

ADAM KING OHIO

Adam is preparing to begin college and wants to become deeply involved in campus organizations, including College Republicans, while pursuing internships and building his professional network. He is particularly interested in finance, wealth creation, and potentially working at the Treasury Department. Long term, he hopes to use his financial resources and professional influence to support candidates, organizations, and institutions he believes in.

QUINN KNOTT MINNESOTA

Quinn currently works in his familyʼs̓ roofing business and is beginning to explore a more active role in politics. His Forge experience sparked an interest in volunteering on local campaigns and potentially running for local office in the future. He is also pursuing additional leadership-development opportunities.

ALLY LONG GEORGIA

Ally hopes to build a career in public service and ultimately serve in the legislature at either the state or federal level. She plans to continue pursuing internships, leadership opportunities, and mentorship while developing the skills and relationships necessary for political leadership. Her Christian faith is central to her ambitions, and she hopes eventually to combine a career in government with marriage and family.

FORGE ACADEMY · 2026–2027

MADISON MCDARIS TEXAS

Madison is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Political Science at Texas A&M University with plans to attend law school. After graduation, she hopes to move to Washington, D.C., to start her career by working for a public policy law firm. Her Christian faith is central to how she thinks about her career and public service, and she also hopes eventually to marry, start a family, and advocate for her faith and conservative values.

ANNA MINASSIAN GEORGIA

Anna is studying Political Science and Public Health while beginning to develop an organization focused on bridging the gap between patients and policymakers. She hopes to build an institution that combines rigorous evidence with patientsʼ lived experiences to develop practical healthcare reforms. She is also a stay-at-home mother, and her husband supports her work while they raise their children.

KATHERINE MUSGROVE TEXAS

Katherine is exploring several possible ways to enter public life, including running for local office, working on immigration policy, creating an organization that teaches American history and government to immigrants and citizens from a biblical perspective, or influencing culture through media and fashion. She is currently preparing to transition from her present job into work that more closely aligns with her developing political and spiritual goals.

ANDREW MYHAL OHIO

Andrew is an honors mechanical engineering student at Anderson University with a minor in chemistry. On campus, he serves as Student Body President, Discipleship Coordinator, and Lead Chemistry Tutor. After graduation, he hopes to become a business owner and use the capital and influence he develops to support Christian conservative leaders and causes. Longer term, he is interested in serving in the United States Senate after establishing himself professionally and gaining experience.

FORGE ACADEMY · 2026–2027

BEN PARKE INDIANA

Ben currently works as a campaign manager and plans to continue building his career in politics while becoming involved in additional leadership opportunities in Indiana and nationally. He is particularly interested in approaching political work through faith-based service and sees public leadership as an opportunity to serve others rather than simply pursue professional advancement.

ADARIUS PARRISH TENNESSEE

Adarius plans to attend law school in fall 2027 and is considering either entering politics or practicing law as a prosecutor. He is particularly interested in encouraging young Black Americans to think independently and stand confidently for their convictions, drawing in part from his own experience becoming more willing to express his conservative beliefs publicly. Long term, he also hopes to own a home, marry, and start a family.

COLLEEN PARSLEY TENNESSEE

Colleen hopes to build a career in policy research and analysis, with a particular interest in helping people understand the policies they vote on and encouraging greater civic engagement among Gen Z. She is considering running for county commissioner in 2028 and hopes eventually to combine public service with marriage and family life.

HANNAH PERKINS MISSOURI

Hannah currently works as an Ambassador for the Herzog Foundation and has a strong interest in legislation and federal policy. Her long-term goal is to work in the U.S. Senate, specifically serving as a legislative director for a conservative senator.

FORGE ACADEMY · 2026–2027

LYDIA POE MISSOURI

Lydia is serving as a Herzog Foundation Ambassador through June 2027 and plans to pursue a Master of Public Administration before beginning a career in Washington, D.C. She is interested in the intersection of politics, religion, civic engagement, and community service and hopes to encourage Christians to participate meaningfully in public life.

ROBERT RODENBUSH INDIANA

Robert is a Hillsdale College student studying History while serving in leadership roles with Mock Trial, the Federalist Society, Michigan College Republicans, and the Alexander Hamilton Society. He previously interned for Senator Jim Banks in Washington, D.C., completing his internship over the summer. Robert feels called both to ministry and to law and politics and plans to pursue his ministerial license while eventually earning a law degree and potentially a Ph.D. in Theology.

ANDERSON ROLL OHIO

Anderson currently serves on the Ontario City Council and is beginning his professional career as a nurse. His experience in both healthcare and local government has given him an interest in how public policy directly affects communities. He hopes to become increasingly involved in Ohio politics and could see himself serving in the Ohio Legislature, working as a legislative aide, or pursuing another elected role.

GRAYSON RYLAND WASHINGTON,

D.C./ALABAMA

Grayson currently works at the Leadership Institute, where he supports conservative organizing on college campuses, while also developing his presence in conservative media through writing and online engagement. He ultimately plans to return to Alabama, continue building a political career, and pursue elected office at the state level, with Christian conservatism as a central influence on his approach to public policy.

FORGE ACADEMY · 2026–2027

ETHAN SAVKA PENNSYLVANIA

Ethan studies Politics and Journalism at Hillsdale College and plans to become a constitutional lawyer. He is currently building Emergency Docket, a publication that gives pre-law and law students opportunities to write about constitutional cases and legal issues. After college, he plans to attend law school, pursue a clerkship and constitutional legal work, and ultimately hopes to become a law professor.

AMAYA SCHILLING WISCONSIN

Amaya recently moved to Virginia and is beginning her professional career as the Office Administrator at the Leadership Institute in Arlington. After completing two internships, she is excited to become more deeply involved in politics and is particularly interested in encouraging Christian civic engagement, reducing the scope of government, and advancing a constitutional understanding of government.

ABBY SHAW MISSOURI

Abby is serving as a Herzog Foundation Ambassador through June 2027, and is currently in a period of discerning the direction of her career and where she fits within the broader conservative movement. She has expressed particular interest in the work of Alliance Defending Freedom and is considering whether an organization or mission in that space could fit her future.

ZEKARIAH SMITH GEORGIA

Zekariah plans to begin college by earning an associateʼs̓ degree in cybersecurity before continuing toward a bachelorʼs̓ degree. His initial career goal is to serve in the FBI, where he hopes to pursue justice and public service. Longer term, he is interested in attending law school and potentially becoming a lawyer, judge, federal judge, or serving in another senior legal role.

FORGE ACADEMY · 2026–2027

ANDREW STEPAT WASHINGTON,

D.C./GEORGIA

Andrew currently lives in Washington, D.C., and works in marketing while hoping to gain experience in the Trump administration. His longer-term plans include returning to Georgia and entering commercial real estate or finance. He is interested in building success in business while developing the resources and relationships to support political candidates and causes.

ERIN TIERNEY MISSOURI

Erin serves as a Herzog Foundation Ambassador, where she works to advance Christ-centered K–12 education. She is especially passionate about serving vulnerable populations, including unborn children, trafficking victims, children in foster care, and individuals with special needs. Long term, she hopes to work in development for the Tim Tebow Foundation and help sustain programs serving those communities.

JOSEPH TILLIS OHIO

Joey is a business professional with experience in accounting, nonprofit administration, and banking. He currently serves as Business Manager at God’s Bible School & College and holds degrees in Integrative Studies, with concentrations in Finance and Accounting, and General Business. Active in ministry leadership, Joey serves as treasurer and youth leader at Main Street Chapel, mentoring at-risk teens, and sits on the board of Heartland Bible Methodist Youth. He is passionate about building strong systems that equip others to serve God, combining his business expertise with a heart for ministry and service.

LINDSAY TODD IDAHO

Lindsay is currently preparing for law school. She envisions a life that combines faith, family, entrepreneurship, and involvement in public life, with a particular interest in developing healthy individuals and strong families. She hopes eventually to be a wife and mother, build a Christ-centered business, and serve in politically meaningful roles as opportunities arise.

2026–2027

· FORGE ACADEMY

MICHAEL TSOGT COLORADO

Michael currently works across government affairs, program leadership, and campaign strategy in Colorado. He is particularly interested in strengthening Christian political engagement in the state and building relationships among churches and Christians interested in public life. He hopes to launch an organization promoting the Christian conservative movement in Colorado while growing his political and general consulting practice.

GRAY TURNER TENNESSEE/GEORGIA

Gray is beginning her first year teaching at Atlanta Classical Academy after relocating to Atlanta. She is passionate about classical education and believes it can play an important role in developing students intellectually, morally, and spiritually. As she grows as an educator, Gray is discerning how she might contribute to education more broadly, including potential involvement in Georgia education policy or eventually pursuing a leadership role as a headmaster.

JACOB ZANG OHIO

Jacob is beginning a new role as a Legislative Aide in the Ohio Senate for State Senator Brian Chavez. He hopes to build a career in the Ohio General Assembly, potentially within the Senate, and is also interested in diplomacy as a longer-term possibility. His Christian faith shapes his view of public service, particularly his emphasis on servant leadership and intentional relationships.

LUKE ZANIEWSKI N E W Y O R K / T E N N E S S E E

Luke is studying at the University of Tennessee–Knoxville and preparing for law school, with a particular interest in constitutional law and the relationship between Christian principles and American legal institutions. He is working toward a top LSAT score while seeking experiences in public policy, law, and leadership. His long-term goal is to use the legal profession to advance principles rooted in his understanding of God, human dignity, liberty, and justice.

FORGE ACADEMY · 2026–2027