2025 Graduate Spotlight: Payton Corlew
Payton Corlew is graduating with a Master’s in Public Policy (MPP) with a concentration in National Security. She is excited to continue her professional journey this summer as an intern at the Tennessee Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations in Nashville.
Payton’s time at the University of Tennessee has been marked by numerous accomplishments, including receiving the Baker School MPP Scholarship. Her participation in the Congressional Internship Program gave her the opportunity to live in Washington, D.C., while working for a nonprofit, fulfilling a long-time personal goal.
“The Baker School graciously accepted me into their program and has given me a multitude of skill sets that I plan to use moving forward,” Payton stated. “At the Baker School, you are surrounded by people who not only strive to be great but also push others to reach this level. It creates a sense of community and reassurance knowing the people around you want you to succeed.”
Payton credits her cohort with having the biggest impact on her time at the Baker School. After transferring into the program as a graduate student, she found a welcoming community that helped her grow both personally and academically.
As she takes her next step into the public policy field, Payton looks forward to using the skills and connections she’s gained at UT to make an impact in national security and public service.