As he prepares for graduation this spring, senior Wade Brown has made the most of his Ohio State experience. The Mount Vernon native has combined academic study in public policy analysis and economics with hands-on leadership, community engagement and government service, building a foundation for a career dedicated to creating positive change.
As a scholar in the Advocates for Communities and Education Scholars (ACES) program, Brown has found both a sense of belonging and a passion for service. Although he originally planned to join Ohio State's Honors Program, a different path ultimately led him to experiences that have become central to his college journey.
"I decided to join the ACES Scholars program because I was interested in getting involved in education," Brown said. "ACES has provided a meaningful opportunity to give back to the Ohio State community as well as the broader Columbus community."
Through ACES, Brown has participated in service projects ranging from school clean-up initiatives to efforts supporting students and families facing hardships. Just as importantly, the program helped him build lasting relationships and establish connections that have shaped his Ohio State experience.
"ACES has been an incredible opportunity for me to engage and get to know people," he said. "I met a lifelong friend in my roommate through the program and have made several friends through it."
Brown's commitment to serving others has also shaped his academic interests. Inspired by his late father, who encouraged him to pursue work that creates a positive impact, Brown found a natural fit in economics and public policy.
"My dad always encouraged me to pursue opportunities that created a positive impact on the world," Brown said. "That inspired my interest in public service."
That passion extends beyond the classroom. Brown is active in Ohio State's International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Student Chapter, where he has gained firsthand insight into local government leadership. One highlight was presenting alongside fellow students at the Ohio City/County Management Association Annual Conference on disaster management during a flash flooding scenario, sharing research and ideas with city managers and public officials from across the state.
The experience reinforced his interest in government and public administration while helping him develop valuable professional connections. Brown credits Professor Judith Zimomra of the John Glenn College of Public Affairs with helping guide that growth.
"Professor Zimomra suggested that I get involved with ICMA, which has provided many incredible opportunities to meet municipal leaders," Brown said. "Her office hours have significantly improved my writing abilities and provided meaningful opportunities to learn about events and opportunities on campus."
Outside of campus organizations, Brown has gained practical experience at both the state and federal levels. He previously worked in U.S. Senator Jon Husted's Columbus District Office and served as an Ohio Senate Page in the office of State Sen. Kyle Koehler. In these roles, he assisted with constituent communication, prepared letters and commendations, and supported the daily operations of a legislative office.
"The work has been incredibly meaningful," Brown said. "Working as a page has opened so many doors and avenues that I had not previously known and has inspired my continued interest in public service work."
His experiences have also introduced him to accomplished leaders across the public sector. Among his most memorable Ohio State experiences was attending and presenting at the 2026 Ohio City/County Management Association (OCMA) Conference. Where he had an opportunity to deliver a presentation on the challenges of stakeholder and disaster management and meet with several municipal leaders.
This fall, he will participate in Ohio State's Washington Academic Internship Program (WAIP), a milestone that brings him one step closer to his long-term goals. Wade will be interning in The Office of the Speaker Mike Johnson's Office while in D.C. Brown is also pursuing a combined Master of Public Administration degree through Ohio State's John Glenn College of Public Affairs.
Beyond the professional opportunities, Brown is eager to experience life in the nation's capital and explore the East Coast.
"I am really looking forward to exploring Washington, D.C., through WAIP," he said. "I'm excited to explore the city and travel throughout the East Coast."
When he's not studying, working or volunteering, Brown enjoys playing tennis and collecting sports trading cards. And like many Buckeyes, he holds a special appreciation for one of the university's most treasured traditions.
His favorite? Singing "Carmen Ohio."
For Brown, Ohio State has been more than a place to earn a degree. Through service, leadership and hands-on public policy experiences, he has found a community that supports his ambitions while preparing him to make a difference far beyond campus.
