We are excited to share that Briannya Evans (Pardee ’27) is this year’s City of Boston Equity & Inclusion Cabinet Intern! Briannya will be contributing to efforts to address racial equity policy priorities in the City of Boston, to community engagement with stakeholders and residents of Boston, and to developing data-driven policy recommendations. She will work directly with the Senior Advisor on Racial Justice, Ms. Lori Nelson, and the team to support activities overseen by her office. This internship is the successor to a longstanding partnership with what was formerly known as the Mayor’s Office of Resilience & Racial Equity (MORRE).
Briannya Evans (she/her) is a rising senior attending Boston University, studying International Relations and Public Policy, with a focus on international systems and world order. She has professional experience in government affairs as an intern at Emergent Strategies, where she conducted legislative research, tracked federal policy developments, and produced client-facing policy memos, particularly in emerging areas such as AI and data privacy. She also interned for Florida State Representative Kevin Chambliss, where she supported community outreach efforts by helping coordinate his “Read with the Rep” literacy initiative. On campus, Briannya previously served as the Director-General of Boston University’s collegiate Model United Nations Conference, where she helped manage a conference with 500+ attendees. She is passionate about advancing equitable policy solutions and connected research to real-world impact through advocacy and community engagement.
We asked Briannya a few questions about her interests, motivations, and what she’s looking forward to at Boston City Hall this summer!
What made you want to apply for this internship?
I first learned about this internship after Professor Christine Slaughter shared the application with me and encouraged me to apply. After researching the Boston Equity and Inclusion Cabinet, I was immediately drawn to its clear track record of translating its mission into measurable action. What stood out most to me was the Cabinet’s commitment to accountability, its use of data, reports, and tangible outcomes to advance equity across Boston. That level of intentionality is exactly what I look for in an organization, and it motivated me to pursue an opportunity to contribute to work that creates meaningful, real-world impact.
Tell us about your interest in cities.
Growing up in Miami, I developed a deep appreciation for the energy, diversity, and cultural richness that cities offer. My experiences there shaped not only my identity but also my perspective on community and belonging. When applying to colleges, I knew I wanted to be in a major city, which led me to Boston. Living in both Miami and Boston has reinforced my belief that cities are spaces for connection and opportunity. Each city has contributed uniquely to who I am, and together they have given me a broader understanding of how urban environments shape people’s lived experiences.
How did you first become interested in racial equity?
As a Black woman, my interest in racial equity developed over time through lived experience rather than a single defining moment. Growing up, I became increasingly aware of subtle differences in how I was perceived and treated, whether through comments about my hair or expectations placed on me. Those experiences pushed me to ask deeper questions about fairness, access, and opportunity. Over time, that curiosity evolved into a commitment to understanding systemic inequities and working toward solutions that create more just and inclusive communities.
What are you most looking forward to this summer?
This summer, I am most looking forward to working alongside the team at the Boston Equity and Inclusion Cabinet and learning from professionals who are deeply committed to advancing equity. As an emerging professional, I am excited to gain hands-on experience, build meaningful relationships, and develop skills to translate my academic background into impactful work. I am especially eager to contribute to projects that make a tangible difference while learning from the perspectives and expertise of those around me.