Announcing the 2026 Fall Patman Scholars

The Patman Center for Civic and Political Engagement is excited to announce our final two Patman Scholars for 2026. Through financial support for internships with elected and appointed government officials, The Patman Center gives students the opportunity to gain firsthand experience in public service, explore the realities of policymaking, and build the foundational skills and relationships that can shape their future careers.

Our two fall Patman Scholars, Reese Longbine and Brianna Fuller, are exemplary students and civic leaders, working with Representatives across the aisle to better understanding the policymaking world. Both scholars have previous experience working in government relations and policy, and are looking forward to continuing their learning in the field this fall. Reese Longbine, whose interest in public affairs started as a young child, is most excited to learn how to properly represent the varying needs of the constituents in a district. Brianna Fuller, with extensive experience in policy advocacy through non-profits, is looking forward to better understanding policymaking from inside the system. 

Reese Longbine

Internship: Office of State Senator Bob Hall (R)

Reese Longbine is a Junior Government and Public Affairs double major and Business & Public Policy minor from Leander, Texas. He currently serve as a Legislative Intern for Senator Bob Hall. He supports the office with policy analysis, research, and constituent services. He is fortunate to have previously interned with the Office of Government Relations at the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation and HillCo Partners, through which he learned the valuable skills necessary to serve the people of Texas in my current position. Like his father, he wishes to dedicate his life to public service, serving the Texas and American people.

"Being selected to be a Patman Scholar is the greatest accomplishment for students participating in civics at the University of Texas. The Patman Center chooses students who demonstrate a commitment to public service and promise of being a civic leader. Being a Patman Scholar is more than receiving a reward. It's being recognized by those who want to foster the new generation of public servants."

Brianna Fuller 

Internship: Office of State Senator Judith Zaffrini (D)

Brianna Fuller is a Master of Public Affairs candidate at the LBJ School of Public Affairs at The University of Texas at Austin, where she focuses on water, infrastructure, and natural resources policy. She previously served as Campaign Director at the Texas Water Foundation, where she led the first state-funded water awareness campaign and developed policy research and educational initiatives to inform decision-makers on complex water and infrastructure issues. In 2026, she completed the Archer Fellowship in Washington, D.C., where she conducted federal policy research on infrastructure funding and interned with the Wildlife Conservation Society. A multi-generation Texan, Brianna is passionate about shaping a sustainable future for a growing Texas.

"I came to the LBJ School because I wanted to better understand how good ideas become effective public policy and, ultimately, improve people’s lives. Being named a Patman Scholar gives me an extraordinary opportunity to continue that learning inside the Texas Legislature, and I’m deeply grateful for the investment in my growth as a public servant."

The Patman Center extends its sincere congratulations to the fall 2026 Patman Scholars. We are inspired by the previous work and accomplishments of our scholars, and firmly believe that investing in their future will help to build a successful generation of civic leaders. We look forward to seeing the incredible accomplishments that come from their time spent understanding and engaging with the Texas Legislature!