Christian Mower graduated from the University of Utah in 2018 with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and a minor in English. Drawn by a passion for public service and storytelling, Mower found in political science a way to explore the systems shaping communities, while English gave him an outlet for his love of language.

The Hinckley Institute was a major factor in Mower’s decision to attend the University of Utah. Its reputation for connecting students to transformative, real-world opportunities set the course for his undergraduate years and beyond. During his time at the U, Mower served as Director of Government Relations for ASUU and participated in two Hinckley internships: the 2017 Utah Legislative Session and the 2018 Washington, D.C. program.

As a legislative intern for Representative Patrice Arent, Mower gained first-hand insight into policymaking and the importance of principled, pragmatic advocacy. 

Working with Rep. Arent, I saw firsthand how persistence, skilled advocacy, and sincere commitment to community can lead to lasting, positive change.

His summer in Washington, D.C. with the Eisenhower Memorial Commission gave him a new perspective on how civic spaces and national memory are shaped. While not directly aligned with his initial career goals, this experience sparked an enduring interest in public space and its impact on community life.

Beyond professional skills, Mower credits the Hinckley Institute with some of his most meaningful connections.

My favorite Hinckley memory isn’t one moment, but the entirety of living with other students in D.C. Many of my closest friendships are thanks to the Hinckley Institute.

Today, Mower works on the Planning and Capital Development team at Seattle Center, a civic and cultural hub that welcomes more than 11 million visitors each year. Supporting the long-term stewardship and future envisioning of this iconic public space, which includes the Space Needle, Climate Pledge Arena, and numerous community institutions, Mower draws on the knowledge and perspective he gained at the Hinckley Institute daily.

Without question, my Hinckley experiences were the most influential factors in shaping my path after college. They connected me with expert mentors and motivated peers, clarified my professional passions, and taught me invaluable lessons that continue to bolster my work today.