Rithika Iyengar is 2025 Key into Public Service Scholar

Rithika Iyengar has been honoured by America’s Phi Beta Kappa Society as a 2025 Key into Public Service Scholar.

Rithika, a student from Rice University, is studying at Trinity through the Abraham-Broad Fellowship.

She is one of 20 – selected out of 800 applicants across America this year – for the Key into Public Service programme, which is aimed at exceptional arts and sciences undergraduates who demonstrate a strong commitment to pursuing careers in local, state or federal government.

Each scholar receives a US$ 5,000 scholarship and the opportunity to attend a conference in Washington DC offering mentorship and training in public service leadership.

Rithika is pursuing a double major in mathematical economic analysis and mathematics with a minor in poverty, justice and human capabilities. This summer she will work at the Federal Reserve Board of Governors.

Rithika plans to pursue a doctorate in economics with the goal of working in federal policy evaluation or international development.

‘I am extremely thankful to the Phi Beta Kappa Society for honoring me with this award,’ she said.

I am excited to broaden my knowledge of resources to engage in public service and meet like-minded scholars through the Key into Public Service conference. This scholarship will further empower me on my journey to an economics PhD through developing my insight in applying research to public policy.