In addition to her internship with ACLU-WV, Clairice is working as a river guide this summer in Colorado. She is corresponding with our staff via videoconferencing and email, while she works to design our 2020 magazine from her "office" in her car.
Get to Know Clairice Hemme
Pronouns: She / Her / Hers
Position: Communications and Design Intern
Tell us a little bit about your background.
I grew up outside, right here in West Virginia, getting to know every nook and cranny of these Appalachian hills. I attended school at West Virginia University where I learned all about what I wanted to do with myself in adulthood. I spent my time at WVU working on photography, writing, design, and public communications. Now I’m developing these skills to pursue a career in storytelling, and hopefully, one that is full of positive influence and change.
During my time in school, I worked with West Virginia Public Broadcasting on the Inside Appalachia team, as the Assistant News Director for the student radio station, U92, and as the Creative Director for BrandJRNY, a community branding initiative in the city of Point Pleasant, WV. I also spent a lot of time learning about the outdoors and traveling through working as a river guide and living abroad in Trento, Italy. College is undoubtedly a time for growth, opportunity, and discovery and I am very grateful to have such lovely experiences to guide me into the next steps of my life.
Since graduating I am looking for a career that gives me a sense of fulfillment and connection that can only be found in service. I want to use my storytelling and media skills to better my community, wherever that may be. My biggest concern lies solely in the desire to do my part to make a change. I want to spend my life working towards something bigger than myself, and the first step on this path is with ACLU. I believe ACLU will be a wonderful guide into the world of change, consciousness, and public service.
What about the ACLU of WV’s mission most resonates with you?
I think the ACLU’s propensity to avoid partisan bias is incredibly important. As a country, we need more organizations that are working for good of the many, rather than the good of the party. I personally do not identify with either Democrat or Republican. The ACLU understands the vast grey areas within politics and focuses on clarity and justice.
What are you most looking forward to about being th position?
I am very excited to use the skills I have for something I feel proud of. The ACLU is a great organization that works very hard to protect our civil liberties. I love design, but growing these skills while working for change is more than I could ask for.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I spend most of my free time outside hiking, foraging, and enjoying our beautiful world. Though I’m also slightly obsessed with cooking, creating art, and being around people. A little live music and some good friends are what I would call a perfect day.