Summer Kerksick

Summer is an Associate on the Outreach & Membership team at AFJ. Before joining AFJ, she spent nearly five years as a Research Analyst with the U.S. Department of Commerce, working in both federal and contractor roles. In that capacity, she supported more than 70 rural businesses in identifying optimal international markets for their products by conducting in-depth research across a range of foreign markets, contributing to nearly $300,000 in export sales. Summer also helped build new partnerships between federal and state commerce agencies to better align and strengthen government efforts supporting rural businesses.

Originally from Chicago, Summer earned her B.A. in International Economics from the University of Notre Dame, along with a minor in Irish Language and Literature. During her time there, she led efforts to revitalize Black Student Ministry, expanding its presence on campus and fostering a more inclusive environment within Campus Ministry for Black students. She was also actively engaged in off-campus service, tutoring immigrant and first-generation American students in English, reading, and mathematics.

Summer is a proud member of the Junior League of Washington, where she remains involved in community development initiatives focused on supporting women and children. Outside of work, she enjoys cheering on all Fighting Irish teams and the Chicago Bears, as well as running, weightlifting, exploring new bakeries, and crocheting.