Nathan Hogg’s passion for public service has connected him with a variety of community building efforts in Wayne County. In 2026 it’s taking him beyond local borders to an internship with the Indiana House of Representatives and Indiana Black Legislative Caucus.
The IU East junior and Richmond native started his role on Jan. 5. An active advocate since high school, Hogg said he believes God blessed him to be a voice for those without a platform.
He also credits his late great-grandmother, Annie Sanders, with shaping this passion.
“She often shared stories of growing up without access to essential resources and emphasized the importance of voting and remaining civically engaged,” Hogg said.
With experience in IU East’s Student Government and a run for Indiana University student trustee, Hogg was strongly encouraged to apply for the opportunity by his faculty supervisor, Dr. E. Scott Lee, chair of IU East’s political science department.
Now spending his weeks in Indianapolis, Hogg handles an array of responsibilities, from monitoring constituent accounts and tracking legislators’ positions on issues to research assistance and preparing materials for committee hearings and House sessions.
“I also work closely with IBLC Executive Director Alexis Watts on a wide range of tasks, including drafting correspondence to state agencies regarding constituents, attending community events, staffing IBLC meetings and supporting caucus subcommittees as needed,” he said.
Established in 1979, the IBLC is a caucus of 16 legislators serving in both the House and the Senate. Its members work to develop policies and advance legislation that positively impact minority communities and improve the quality of life for all Hoosiers.
Hogg initially was somewhat confused about the caucus’s work. But he said it soon became clear how meaningful and impactful their efforts are in advancing minority voices at the state level.
“Seeing their work firsthand has given me a deeper appreciation for the importance of representation and advocacy within the legislative process,” he said.
Hogg witnessed the IBLC develop its 2026 agenda, titled “Working Families, Winning Futures.” The legislative framework aims to address current affordability challenges in a way that would equip Hoosiers with the tools to thrive. Ahead of May’s midterms, the caucus has also partnered with community organizations to conduct town halls and host other events to keep constituents informed and engaged.
Hogg is thankful for the experience, citing that the relationships he’s developed have been nothing short of incredible.
“Alexis, Rep. John Barlett, Rep. Earl Harris, the IBLC and the entire House Democratic staff welcomed me with open arms and [have] been a joy to learn from.” He also credits IU East and gives special thanks to Dean of Students Yemi Mahoney for being a source of encouragement and a facilitator of his purpose.
“This season of my life is one of self-discovery, helping me decide whether a future in politics is truly my calling. I look forward to continuing to do important work at the Statehouse and am excited for what lies ahead in my career,” he said.
A version of this article appeared in the February 4 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.