Earlier this month, five East Stroudsburg University students attended the Washington Center (TWC’s) Inside Washington academic seminar. ESU students were part of a group of more than 370 learners from around the country who gathered in-person for a unique insider’s view into the state of politics, policy, and diplomacy in our nation’s capital. They were accompanied by Kimberly S. Adams, Ph.D., professor of political science, who also supervised 10 additional students from various schools across the U.S.
The ESU students who attended the trip were Taylor Black, a senior majoring in communication from Abington, Pa.; Kathryn Pabon, a junior majoring in communication from East Stroudsburg, Pa.; Isabella Rincon, a junior majoring in political science major from Bethlehem, Pa.; Jiovan Santiago, a junior majoring in political science from East Stroudsburg, Pa.; and Kelsey Yearde, a senior majoring in criminal justice from Easton, Pa.
The students interacted with political leaders, Congressional staffers, governmental agencies, and non-profit organizations to build connections that will enhance their academic and professional careers.
The students participated in the Inside Washington program at no cost to them or the University. “State funding for TWC programming has been quite generous over the last two years. We owe a debt of gratitude to those legislators in Harrisburg who see the value of supporting such a transformative academic experience. Our students’ lives are forever changed,” Dr. Adams said.
The students toured the White House, made several visits to Capitol Hill, and attended a briefing at Amazon’s Second Headquarters in Arlington, Va. The students heard from an impressive list of speakers including Ambassador Arturo Sanukhan, former ambassador of Mexico to the U.S.; Hillary Shelton, national advisor of governance and policy for the NAACP; Emily Martin, chief program officer at the National Women’s Law Center; and Holly Page, co-founder & national spokesperson for No Labels. Speakers and discussions examined topics such as the elections, healthcare, gun safety, civil and human rights and more.
“The Washington Center is committed to building access, equity, and opportunity for all leaners as they chart their path from college to career,” said Kim Churches, president of the Washington Center.
For more information on the Washington Center for Internships and Academic seminars, please contact Dr. Adams as ksadams@esu.edu.