Andie Kapiloff holds a BA in Political Science from Swarthmore College and an MA in Climate and Society from Columbia University's Climate School. Born and raised in Houston, Texas, she is passionate about environmental and energy law and policy, with plans to attend law school after her fellowship. Outside of work, Andie is an avid Houston sports fan and enjoys coaching youth lacrosse. Through the Fellowship, she is currently playing an integral role in Senator Nathan Johnson’s office as a full-time legislative aide.

Ava Peinhardt is from the Dallas Fort Worth area and recently graduated from Trinity University with a B.A. in Environmental Studies. While pursuing her degree, Ava was able to develop her writing skill set in both academic and journalistic settings, leading to her interest in science communication and environmental policy. She will be working with Rep. Todd Hunter’s office, where she hopes to learn more about the policymaking process from an experienced legislative staff.

Coleman Nickum, a recent graduate of Rice University's PSM Program Professional Science Masters, began his career as TCEQ’s lead coordinator for NEPA and RENEW Recycling, engaging with industry stakeholders through workshops, conferences, and pollution prevention initiatives. At Rice, he interned with the BCarbon Registry and Cheniere Energy, furthering his expertise. Coleman now aims to support Rep. Erin Zwiener and the Texas Energy & Climate Caucus in advancing bold sustainability goals in the next legislative session. 

Grace Childers is a graduating senior at the University of Texas at Austin studying Chemical Engineering. She has worked as an Undergraduate Research Assistant for nearly three years specializing in hydrogen energy systems. She has experience with both physical integration of hydrogen energy systems as well as performing technoeconomic analysis for renewable hydrogen production. Grace is excited to apply her technical experience, aiding Representative Richard Hayes’ office, to the realm of lawmaking for energy policy.

Nia Nickens recently graduated with her M.S. in Energy at Texas A&M University, where she explored the interdisciplinary landscape of energy. Her passions lie in reducing energy burdens in low-income communities while advancing social equity. At A&M, she contributed to a techno-economic analysis of electrifying Dallas' transportation, highlighting financial incentives for renewable advancements. Nia aims to further these efforts through energy policy, driving innovative and equitable solutions. She is currently placed in Rep. Rafael Anchía’s office as a legislative aide.

Shipra is an adept policy professional with an interdisciplinary background in law and energy policy. Her experience spans working with a Member of Parliament in India and India's Ministry of Coal and Mines, where she contributed to policy reforms in the energy sector. In the U.S., she carried out energy policy research at Cornell University’s Climate Jobs Institute and consulted with the U.S. Government Accountability Office on electric vehicle policy. Shipra holds a Master of Public Administration from Cornell University, specializing in Energy and Environment, and a Bachelor of Laws from Gujarat National Law University, India.  She looks forward to working closely with Rep. Janie Lopez as her legislative director for the 89th session.