PLAINVIEW — JoNiesha Kennedy, a senior Political Science major at Wayland Baptist University, has embarked on a transformative journey through work with the Dallas County Elections Office and an internship in the Dallas office of Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas.
Originally from Shreveport, LA, Kennedy hopes to build a career on the foundation of a personal passion for politics, her studies at Wayland, and her desire to effect meaningful change in the world into which she enters with her graduation. She graduates Cum Laude on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024, at Hutcherson Center.
Kennedy’s interest in politics began as a personal quest for knowledge and understanding. Growing up, she observed the ways political decisions impacted her life as well as the lives of those around her. Yet, she realized she lacked the knowledge to fully grasp or influence the system.
“I wasn’t very knowledgeable about politics,” Kennedy admitted. “But I always heard people talking about it. I saw how it affected my life in different ways, and I wanted to be able to make a change. But how can you do that if you don’t even know where to start?”
This realization motivated Kennedy to pursue a degree in political science, a decision rooted in both curiosity and a drive to empower herself and others. She came to Wayland as a sophomore and minored in Spanish and English.
As she moved into her senior year at Wayland, Kennedy was encouraged by her professors to apply for an internship with Sen. Cruz and was accepted for a position in the senator’s Dallas office. She and her husband moved to the Metroplex. Kennedy said the internship provided her with a broader perspective on governance as well as a better understanding of the legislative process.
“I was able to see how federal offices interact with the public and how policies are shaped to address real-world issues,” Kennedy said. “It was inspiring to work alongside people who are so committed to serving their communities and making a difference on a national level.”
The internship reinforced Kennedy’s belief in the power of public service and gave her the confidence to envision herself in similar roles in the future. It also provided Kennedy with a connection to GOP activist Patti Clapp, the Republican Party appointee for Alternate Judge of the Dallas County Early Voting Ballot Board. Clapp encouraged Kennedy to apply for a temporary fall position with the Dallas County Elections Board as an assistant to the election judge.
Accepting the position with the Dallas County Elections Board was a difficult decision that was made easier by her Wayland professors. After the summer internship, Kennedy planned to return to the university’s Plainview campus to wrap up her studies and graduate. Her professors encouraged her to seize the day by continuing her studies in October and November using videos, online opportunities, and reading while working the elections. She could catch up when she got back. It wasn’t easy handling the position, her studies and her family, but Kennedy made it work, juggling as needed.
Kennedy said her role was a crash course in the complexities of running elections and the importance of civic engagement.
“This was my first time really getting involved in the electoral process, and it gave me a behind-the-scenes view of voting,” she explained. “It was eye-opening to see the systems in place to ensure fair elections and to interact with voters who were passionate about making their voices heard.”
The experience was especially meaningful for Kennedy as she prepared to cast her first vote in the election cycle.
“Working there not only educated me about voting but also made me more excited and confident about participating in the process,” she said.
Kennedy’s journey from political novice to active participant in the process demonstrated her commitment to personal growth and civic responsibility. She hopes to continue building her career in politics and even aspires to one day hold an office herself.
“I want to be someone who can bridge the gap between politics and the people it serves,” she said. “I’ve seen how impactful decisions are made, and I want to ensure that those decisions reflect the needs of the community.”
Since returning to the Plainview campus in November, Kennedy has been focused on completing her degree, graduating Saturday, and continuing to seek opportunities to expand her knowledge and experience. Whether through local elections or work in Washington, D.C., she is determined to be a voice for those who need one.
Kennedy’s story is a testament to the power of engagement and the importance of seizing opportunities, and she wants to do the same for others. She encourages others — especially young people and first-time voters — to get involved and stay informed.
“It’s easy to feel like your voice doesn’t matter, but every step you take makes a difference,” she said. “Whether it’s learning about the issues, voting, or working behind the scenes, there’s a place for everyone to contribute.”
As Kennedy cast her first vote this year, she was already making her mark on the political landscape — proof that with determination and curiosity, anyone can help shape the future. She is on the right track to have a significant impact in the world of politics.
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