Ilwan Hassan recently completed an internship with the Saint Paul Port Authority. This is what they had to say about the experience.
This summer, I had the distinct privilege of interning with the St. Paul Port Authority, where I was actively involved in various interdepartmental projects. My responsibilities included auditing contracts, reviewing tax-exempt leases, and handling other administrative tasks. These duties provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the properties owned by the Port Authority, as well as insights into managing tax-exempt parcels and tenants who do not meet tax exemption criteria.
During my internship, I observed the initial phases of a Joint Venture as well as contributed to small components for the on-going Heights Project. My involvement included attending strategic meetings, primarily focused on securing grants for arts initiatives and navigating the permit acquisition process from the city to continue construction.
Additionally, I conducted research on arts-speciļ¬c grants for the Heights as well as Treasure Island Center. I also played a role in the interpretive panel project by researching and compiling information on the Mississippi River’s economic and ecological impact on St. Paul’s economy. In this capacity, I facilitated communication between the city and the Port Authority, ensuring accurate and timely project updates.
Many of the projects I worked on are ongoing, allowing me to witness the progression of long-term planning and execution. My internship also included community engagement activities, such as participating in the St. Paul Cleanup Initiative, which underscored the importance of civic involvement and environmental stewardship.