STATEHOUSE (March. 16, 2026) – Hamilton County natives Ava Tenorio and Peter Kaiser are gaining experience as interns with State Rep. Hunter Smith (R-Zionsville) and his fellow members of the Indiana House of Representatives during the 2026 legislative session.
Tenorio, a Cathedral High School graduate, is the daughter of Jason and Mary Jo Tenorio. She is currently a sophomore at Purdue University, and double majoring in political science and business management and minoring in English literature.
“Ava has brought a strong work ethic and a positive attitude to our office each day,” Smith said. “Her professionalism and commitment to serving constituents have made her a valuable part of our team this session.”
"This internship has provided me with valuable experiences that I will never forget," Tenorio said. "I am so blessed to be surrounded by motivated individuals who care about my personal development as well as my career success."
Kaiser, a Portola High School graduate, is the son of Gary Nguyen and Irina Loginova. He is currently a senior at Ivy Tech Community College and majoring in general studies.
"What I love about this internship is that it functions as a practical hands-on experience in government," Kaiser said. "In addition, the networking opportunities are greatly helpful."
“It’s always encouraging to see young leaders like Peter take an interest in state government,” Smith said. “This experience and his enthusiasm will serve him well as he pursues his future career.”
As legislative interns, Tenorio and Kaiser correspond with constituents through phone calls, letters and emails while also staffing committee hearings and floor proceedings.
Each year, the Indiana House offers paid, full-time, spring semester internship opportunities to college students, recent graduates and students in graduate and law school during the legislative session.
Learn more about the House Republican internship program by visiting IndianaHouseRepublicans.com/internship.
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State Rep. Hunter Smith (R-Zionsville) represents House District 24,
which includes portions of Boone and Hamilton counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
Photo Caption 1: State Rep. Hunter Smith (left) joins Hamilton County resident Ava Tenorio (right) in the House Chamber on Feb. 25, 2026, at the Statehouse in Indianapolis. Tenorio is interning with the House of Representatives during the 2026 legislative session.
Photo Caption 2: Hamilton County resident Peter Kaiser (left) joins State Rep. Hunter Smith (right) in the House Chamber on Feb. 23, 2026, at the Statehouse in Indianapolis. Kaiser is interning with the House of Representatives during the 2026 legislative session.
