Rosemary Kennedy Initiative
The Rosemary Kennedy Initiative (“RKI”) provides internship experiences at the Kennedy Center to individuals with documented disabilities. Through this 24-week experience, disabled individuals build professional skills and workplace confidence. Interns leave better prepared to engage in competitive, integrated employment.
Open to candidates ages 18+ with a documented disability.
About the Program
During their six months on-site at the Kennedy Center, RKI interns have the opportunity to dive deep into their departmental placements. In addition to this hands-on work experience at the Kennedy Center, the program provides opportunities for professional growth through a curriculum of workshops, field trips, and networking events. RKI interns build skills while exploring today's varied careers in the cultural sector.
The 2026 session will offer position in the following departments:
Learn more about each role under “Position Descriptions” below.
Eligibility & Key Dates
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Eligibility
- Candidates must be 18+ as of January 12, 2026 and be legally eligible to work in the United States.
- Candidates must have a documented disability.
- Candidates must be able to reliably commute to the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. at least four days each week for assigned shifts.
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Key Dates
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Applications are due Friday, October 24, 2025.
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In-person interviews will occur November 7 and 10-12, 2025.
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The 2026 term runs January 12 through June 28, 2026.
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Submit your Application
The contents of this program were developed under grant H421F240164 from the U.S. Department of Education (Department). The Department does not mandate or prescribe practices, models, or other activities described or discussed in this program. The contents of this program may contain examples of, adaptations of, and links to resources created and maintained by another public or private organization. The Department does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of this outside information. The content of this program does not necessarily represent the policy of the Department. This program is not intended to represent the views or policy of or be an endorsement of any views expressed or materials provided by any Federal agency. (EDGAR 75.620)
