As part of Saint Peter’s University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program, students Marco Guzman and Hajar Touzani are applying their classroom knowledge to real-world settings through highly competitive internships that are shaping their professional paths in public service.
Marco Guzman with his Senate office team at a town hall meeting held in Cherry Hill., N.J.
Guzman is currently interning in the Jersey City office of U.S. Senator Andy Kim, where he is supporting constituent services and contributing to policy development that aims to improve the lives of New Jersey residents. Touzani is serving as an intern for State Senator Angela McKnight, assisting with legislative initiatives and engaging directly with the local community on a range of policy issues.
These prestigious opportunities are possible through the MPA program’s collaboration with the James P. Fox Memorial Fund, which was established in 2017 to honor the legacy of Jamie Fox (1954–2017), a devoted public servant who made a lifelong impact on New Jersey through his leadership, policy reforms and mentorship of future generations.
“Jamie Fox, a passionate and admirable individual, made it his mission to bring change to the world around him,” said Touzani. “He valued the significance of public service and policies that would make New Jersey a better place for all. From implementing a restriction on ocean dumping to banning assault weapons in New Jersey, Jamie Fox worked diligently for the common good.”
Senator Angela McKnight (left) with Hajar Touzani (right).
Touzani added that the internship is opening her eyes to how government operates behind the scenes and deepening her understanding of how public issues are addressed. “I would like to learn more about the reality behind working in politics,” she said. “I hope to expand my horizons in government and explore how issues are resolved, especially in the areas of social services, public health, environmental protection, and urban planning.”
Guzman also spoke to the influence of Jamie Fox’s legacy on his current work. “Jamie Fox had a distinguished career in New Jersey politics and public service, having served as NJDOT Commissioner under Governor Chris Christie from 2010 to 2014,” he said. “He was known for his leadership in overseeing the state’s transportation initiatives, particularly efforts to improve infrastructure and address challenges related to roadways and public transit.”
A political science minor, Guzman has long been drawn to public service. “I have developed a passion for public affairs and government,” he said. “I’m really interested in dealing with constituents and the issues they face on a daily basis. My career goal is to work in public policy right out of college, which I hope will eventually lead to a position at the United Nations.”
The James P. Fox Memorial Fund was created to support students like Guzman and Touzani in gaining meaningful, hands-on experiences that prepare them for careers in public service. In doing so, it continues Jamie Fox’s mission of cultivating the next generation of changemakers committed to making government more effective, compassionate and accessible.
Saint Peter’s MPA program remains a catalyst for professional growth, civic engagement and leadership offering students not only a strong academic foundation, but also real-world opportunities to lead, serve and advocate for the public good, which is a hallmark of a Saint Peter’s education.