Alexander Santana – a recent COSSPP graduate – was hired as a Government Affairs Coordinator at Floridian Partners, LLC, a lobbying and consulting firm based in Tallahassee.
In this role, he will support the firm’s day-to-day operations and legislative priorities.
Having received his undergraduate degree from The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., Santana decided to return to his home state and attend Florida State University for his graduate studies because of its proximity to the Florida Capitol.
“Having been born and raised in Florida I wanted to learn more about state government and how the Legislature, Governor, and other important players in the political process have an impact on our daily lives and the future of the Sunshine State,” Santana said. “I wanted to benefit from FSU’s prime location in Florida’s capital city and all the job opportunities and internships that are available.”
Santana came to Tallahassee with an already-established passion for the political process and the inner workings of government. He credits his time in the Masters of Applied American Politics and Policy program for helping him to get his start in Florida politics.
“The firm was impressed by the MAAPP program,” he said. “Having professors and classmates who supported me throughout my time at FSU reinforced my passion for Florida politics and making a meaningful contribution to the state I am proud to call home through public service.”
He was also a part of many groups on campus including the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy Student Leadership Council, Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity Leadership Board, Pi Gamma Mu Honor Society, and the Golden Key International Honour Society.
With the 2023 Florida Legislative Session in full swing, he is excited to put his FSU education into action.
“The MAAPP program has prepared me well for a career in government and the political process,” Santana said. “I look forward to putting the skills and knowledge acquired through my master’s program into action during the 2023 legislative session.”
To learn more about MAAPP, visit coss.fsu.edu/MAAPP.