Please take the time to read the candidate’s descriptions below. Elections will begin Monday, November 14, via a Trachtenberg Times email! And remember, you will only be voting for the candidates from your respective program, whether that be MPA or MPP.

TSO – President (MPP)
Simon McNorton

I’m currently involved in several student-led TSPPPA initiatives. I’m tutoring in Anacostia with Meghan, and working with Maria and the Diversity and Inclusion Committee. This week I’m meeting with Kathy, Whitney and Kabir to begin planning the annual Policy Forum in the spring semester, and last week I started a discussion with the Center for Civic Engagement to build interest in commitments for the Clinton Global Initiative University, which is coming to GWU in the spring.

I also co-founded Landbanking for Justice as part of Rigby’s 6011 Thursday section.

In the past I’ve held several student association positions, most recently (2007/8) serving as Student Vice-President and then President over two terms at the International Student House in Washington, DC, where I organized events and lectures at the House, began a student newsletter and fundraised to buy equipment for resident common areas.

If elected your student association president, I’m excited to work with the rest of the Student Association Board, with Kathy and other TSPPPA faculty, Paul and Career Services, and to represent TSPPPA across GWU and outside.

I want to see a common/study area exclusive to graduate or TSPPPA students, so I can see your beautiful faces whenever I want; to update student websites to include recommended class/concentration outlines; and to build networks with related schools (Elliot, Education, Public Health, Media and Public Affairs and Political Management).

TSO – VP of Communications (MPP)
Leslie Finnan

The Student Organizations are an integral part of the Trachtenberg experience.  I am interested in helping to make these organizations continue to rock in the next year, and would be honored to serve as the VP for Communications.  In my current job, I write, design, and send a weekly newsletter to 1000+ aging and disability professionals.  The Tberg Times would be 1000+ times more interesting than that, for sure!  I also have experience in student leadership; I served as the secretary for my college Democrats club, and was very active in organizing events and campaigns throughout the campus and in sending out emails, minutes, and invitations.

Communication is a crucial part of the student org world, and I believe I would be a strong candidate for this position.
Please vote for me, Leslie Finnan, for VP of Communications!

TSO – Treasurer (MPP)
Kyle Bergman

Hello, T-Bergers! My name is Kyle and I want to be your MPP treasurer. I believe the driving force behind TSO’s ability to enrich our experience at Trachtenberg comes from the people who run it, and while it may not be the sexiest aspect of the organization, proper management of TSO funds is essential in order to make sure the efforts of the board can be translated into action and results. Considering the large amount of debt I’m taking on in pursuit of my MPP degree, I want to get the most out of my time here at GW. Thus, I have decided to concentrate in program evaluation and analysis/public budgeting, and in order to get more real world experience I would like to work with my MPA counterpart in managing the TSO budget. Before coming to Trachtenberg, I was a 2nd grade teacher for a small private school. Along with helping with the day-to-day administration of the school, I was responsible for preparing a budget for my own class every trimester and making sure the appropriated funds would last until the end of term. I was also an officer for a student organization during undergrad where detail and organizational skills were a must.

D&I Representation (MPP)
Morgan Taylor

As a future public servant, I believe diversity and inclusion are two important goals to strive for.  For this, I have dedicated myself to these issues and am concentrating in social policy here at the Trachtenberg School.  Throughout the past four years I have worked with people from various backgrounds and also currently work as an advocate for different organizations, including those dedicated to helping others gain equality and acceptance.  Working with the Hispanic Center of Western Michigan as a tutor allowed me to learn from my students about socio-economic issues facing our country today.  At my undergraduate university, I acted as President of the Political Science society, which gave me the skills needed to be an effective leader.

I strongly believe in the goals of the Diversity & Inclusion group here at the Trachtenberg School and that if we wish to fulfill these goals, we must start within our own community.  If elected as committee chair, I will dedicate myself to creating a more diverse community at GW where we can all learn from each other and that will prepare us for our futures in public service.  Please vote Morgan Taylor for Diversity & Inclusion chair.
–
Ana Jara

The issues of diversity are more and more important to an ever changing and globalizing world. It is critical for those of us that are being trained as the next leaders in policy to be informed, be sensitive to and think creatively about how to address diversity in the public policy arena. I will work hard with my MPA co-chair to bring awareness to and integration of diversity into our program and the University. I will strive to ensure students feel included and the various parts of their identity are welcomed.

I have been involved with a number of student groups and held leadership roles with cultural organizations both on and off campus. One that is important to highlight is an organization that worked with students to create safe spaces for dialogue around culture, ethnicity and identity. I would like to take that idea and incorporate the framework of policy. I have worked with several groups focusing on campaigns and suggestions to policy adoptions dealing with inequality and lack of access. Teamwork, respect and lots of flexibility are key in starting new projects, long term vision and cultural shifts. I would like the opportunity to work with students, faculty and staff to continue developing the D&I committee. It’s my goal to promote ideals of inclusion within Trachtenberg and the greater GW community.

Professional Development Representative (MPP) – No candidate is currently running.

New Student Liaison (MPP)
Lauren Deutsch

I am seeking the position of MPP New Student Liaison to co-chair the Trachtenberg School Orientation and Welcoming Organization (TSOWO). I have held a number of leadership positions in the past and been involved with programs designed to welcome new members into organizations. I always strive to make people around me feel comfortable, welcome and excited to be in Washington, DC. Having attended GWU for undergrad, I am passionate about our surrounding community and want new students to feel the same. I feel confident in my ability to coordinate orientation and retreat to continue activities that have succeeded in the past and introduce new ideas to make these programs even more successful.
–
Stephen Tu

Stephen Tu… New Student Liaison …That rolls right off the tongue, doesn’t it?
Think back to a few months ago, when we were all a little wet behind the ears and excited to begin graduate school. Were you nervous or hesitant as a new student, like I was? Did that clammy feeling go away when you had a bomb time at orientation and retreat? These two events have been vital to my student life experience at GW thus far, and I believe I have the right background to contribute to the team that will guide our cohort through student life next year.

As a former director and counselor of an overnight youth summer camp in the SF Bay Area for four years, I have extensive experience with planning retreats for staff and programming multi-day events. I have a firm grasp of the work that goes into planning and managing a program that turns shy, reluctant children into the most social and talkative creatures you have ever seen. I have no doubt that I can apply my expertise to organizing a team to welcome and guide a new crop of “first-years” through the first few weeks of school, while also acknowledging the traditions, pride and priority on education we associate with the Trachtenberg School.

If elected, I pledge to always break the ice, awkwardly or not, to ensure that the incoming cohort feels as welcome and connected as we do now. I will place an emphasis on mingling part-time, first and second year students, just as the current board has done. I promise to work hard to not only get it done, but get it right. Please vote Stephen Tu for MPP New Student Liaison.

Social Coordinator (MPP)
Ashley Cheung

My name is Ashley and I am running for Social Chair.  I am ready to take on the role of making Trachtenberg even sexier, and happier by planning social events to take the stress off of school and work.  Midterms, papers, and deadlines can checked at the door at the upcoming social events and replaced by networking with your peers over happy hours, dances and events.

I come with many years of experience in a leadership role in my undergrad career.  I was a Resident Advisor, and planned social, cultural and education programs for first and second years. I was also the president of various campus organizations and was university representative at regional and national leadership conferences for three years where I collaborated with other leaders around the nation to create new ideas and programs.

If elected, I promise I will work my hardest to ensure awesomeness and sexiness throughout the Trachtenberg community.  As Social Chair I will use my leadership experience and support from my peers to create a welcoming community atmosphere.

Volunteering Coordinator (MPP) – No candidate is currently running.

TSO – President (MPA)
Jay Sher  

The great programming and sense of community developed by the Trachtenberg Student Organization makes our time in the program more than a simple academic and professional experience. From social events to community service to professional development it affords us great opportunities to build great relationships and networks. I would like the opportunity to build on the organization’s successes and further integrate it into our experience at Trachtenberg. I believe I would be the best candidate for MPA President.

As a recent undergraduate alumnus of George Washington, I am very informed about the internal workings of the university and events and opportunities offered by the broader university community. I have thrived in previous leadership and management roles maintaining a big picture scope while understanding the details. I hope that I can engage more and more students into the Trachtenberg Student Organization and further expand its accomplishments. Remember to vote this week for Jay Sher for MPA President.
TSO – VP of Communications (MPA)
Sarina Rosenberg

My name is Sarina Rosenberg, and I would be honored to serve as the VP of Communications for the TSO. With a professional background in journalism, I have experience writing and editing for a variety of online and print publications. I am committed to filling our student org’s website with interesting and informative content that will help us connect across the student community. In addition to posting news and upcoming events, I hope to begin a bi-monthly bio of current students working in interesting jobs and industries. We are always told that our peers are our best source of networking. I hope to make it easier for us to learn about the unique backgrounds and expertise of our fellow classmates in order to foster networking opportunities.
I am also committed to helping the student organizations run smoothly with efficient internal communications. As a paralegal, I often had this responsibility on the fast paced teams with which I worked. I learned that timely, clear and concise communication is at the heart of an effective team. Though emails happen behind the scenes, without them a team cannot get the job done well.

I could not imagine the transition to graduate school being as easy as it has been without such a strong student organization, and I am committed to continuing this tradition this coming year. I hope you vote for me for VP of Communications!

TSO – Treasurer (MPA)
Sarah Lynn Geiger

My name is Sarah and I am hoping to be your next MPA Treasurer!  We’re all in grad school to make some money in the future, and while we’re here I want to manage TSO’s cash.  I’ve had some experience handling money in my past.  I was a bank teller for many summers and winter breaks in undergrad.  More importantly, I was treasurer of my high school show choir (yep, just like Glee!), so I have some experience managing the financial responsibilities of a student group.  I am organized and will be able to manage TSO’s budget well.  I am very detail oriented, so I will make sure that no deadlines or requirements are missed when it comes to managing the administrative tasks.  I enjoy working with other people, so I will work hard to coordinate with other members of the student board to make sure that your experience at Trachtenberg is the best it can be.

I came to GWU excited to get involved the Trachtenberg community.  If elected, I will use that enthusiasm to be diligent and attentive to my duties as treasurer.  I look forward to managing that budget.  At the end of the day, I’m just a regular gal and I want to be your Treasurer.

D&I Representation (MPA)
Anamita Gall

My name is Anamita Gall, I am a first year MPA running for the MPA  chair for Diversity & Inclusion. I believe that issues of diversity are increasingly relevant to our field, so I would work alongside my MPP co-chair to advocate for the increased integration of these topics into our program and the University. Additionally, I would aim to ensure that all students feel welcomed into the program as they transition into graduate school life.
As an undergrad, I was involved with a number of student groups and held leadership roles with two cultural student organizations. One of these, was the university’s inter-cultural student organization which currently works in conjunction with the multicultural student office. I believe teamwork is essential, especially when forming new organizations. I would love the opportunity to work with others to continue developing the D&I committee, to promote its ideals of inclusion within the Trachtenberg and greater GW community.

Professional Development Representative (MPA)
Sadie Thimsen

Just having moved from the mountains of small-town Colorado where I was horseback riding through wide-open pastures and snowboarding powdered peaks, I wasn’t sure what to expect moving to metropolitan DC. I immediately signed up for the mentor-mentee program, as I didn’t know much about the city nor anyone else in the area. So far, my mentor has been extremely helpful in giving advice on everything from classes to internships to general tips about Washington. As a former mentor myself, having experience with students of all ages, I’ll work hard at organizing the Trachtenberg School mentor program for incoming students and creating fun opportunities for engagement.

Back in Colorado, I wasn’t only a ski bum, but rather worked with several organizations in the area volunteering and helping to coordinate networking events. As we’ve all learned, networking is a powerful tool for career development, especially in Washington. As your professional development chair, I’ll strive to bring you a diverse myriad of opportunities to help you succeed at further developing your careers, professional skills and networks.

Vote Sadie Thimsen for Professional Development Chair!

New Student Liaison (MPA)
Charlotte Fallon

My name is Charlotte and I would like to be your MPA New Student Liaison. You may recognize me from my sweet dance moves and glowstick crown, which were showcased at the retreat cabin dance party. If, however, you didn’t go to retreat this year, you should absolutely come next year and learn what all the fuss is about!

In all seriousness, the warm welcome I received on Admitted Students’ Day was a major reason that I chose to attend GW, and not one of those other DC schools. Orientation just confirmed that I had made the right decision in attending a school that offered a perfect balance of useful information and ice breakers.

With experience gained as a camp counselor and volunteer coordinator, I will work hard to make the new kids feel like members of the Trachtenberg community from day one, erase the division between first and second year students, and plan the most awesomest retreat that Trachtenberg has ever seen. If elected, I will use my experience leading and working in teams to work with other members of the Board to ensure that next year’s new students receive the same fantastic and informative welcome that we did (potentially with even more embarrassingly fun ice breakers).

Social Coordinator (MPA)
Mike Fucci

When starting this description, I thought of a few different ways to express why I want to be social coordinator. But honestly, they all sounded like I was a raging alcoholic desperately looking for people to drink with (OK not really). I will say that I think the Trachtenberg social events are very beneficial for getting to know our classmates better, as well relaxing and getting away from the stress and pressure of classes and work. I want to continue the great work Paul and Alicia have done in bringing these successful events to our program. I have worked on an election campaign where I helped coordinate social events like happy hours and fundraising dinners. I know the kind of planning and time that goes into coordinating an event like fall ball. I also like to think I know how to have a good time (if you are unaware of this you will see firsthand at fall ball). I also know of many awesome bars in DC that we can go to. Overall, I believe my prior event planning experience and ability to have fun make me the best candidate for social coordinator. Please vote for Mike Fucci.

Volunteering Coordinator (MPA)
Nancy Lagomarcino

My name is Nancy and I would like to be your MPA Volunteer Coordinator. I am interested in building community within the Trachtenberg School through giving back to our city. I will make sure the service projects we choose are causes that are important to you! I will do my best to continue the great ongoing projects as well as find new and rewarding projects to take on.
Having grown up in DC, I am familiar with great organizations and projects around the city in which we can participate. With leadership and community volunteer experience, I will help coordinate service projects, match students with projects you will find interesting and rewarding, and be your voice in the Trachtenberg school to make sure your interests are recognized.

GPAC (At Large)

 Debbie Kobrin

Trachtenberg Student Organization (TSO) Executive Board

TSO Presidents

• Work collaboratively with his/her MPA/MPP counterpart and remaining members of the Trachtenberg Student Organization (TSO) to prepare, organize and lead Joint Session of Association (JSA) meetings.
• Meet regularly with Trachtenberg administration to coordinate long-term strategic planning
• Facilitate JSA inter-committee operations as necessary
• Act as the spokesperson on behalf of the general Trachtenberg student body at Trachtenberg and GW wide events
• Have financial oversight of the collective JSA
• Coordinate and implement the vision set forth by the TSO
• Establish a working relationship with the CSE Faculty Advisor in an effort to increase support of Trachtenberg Student Organizations and serve as a voice representing the diverse needs of graduate student

TSO Vice Presidents

• Assist Presidents in the execution of their duties
• Succeed to the Presidency upon the Presidents’ resignation, impeachment, or other condition rendering the Presidents unable to carry out their duties and responsibilities
• Coordinate temporary committees to carry out responsibilities associated with special, temporary projects
• Serve as the parliamentarian during the TSO Executive Board meetings and meetings of the Joint Session of Associations (JSA)
• Conduct an annual review of the bylaws
• Communications Responsibilities:
  • Gathering and disseminating information from all of the sub-organizations under the TSO umbrella to facilitate communication between the sub-organizations and the TSPPPA student body
  • Maintaining the TSO website, including posting listings of TSO activities, as well as responding to incoming e-mails
  • Preparing weekly messages to the TSO members

TSO Treasurers

• Manage the financial accounts of the TSO and all sub-organizations including:
  • Tracking all inflows and outflows on a consistent basis such that an accurate summary of the financial position of all organizations could be produced on request;
  • Preparing an annual report summarizing the inflows and outflows of the organizations (both individually and as a whole).
• Manage the collection of dues, event fees, etc. through:
  • Creating links for online payment via the organization’s Paypal account;
  • Setting up individual meeting times with students or others to collect such amounts in either cash or check form.
• Complete Expense Authorization Form (EAF) paperwork to receive reimbursement from the Student Association (SA) for qualifying expenses.
• Review the proposed budget for all events (prepared by the event coordinator in charge of the specific event) for reasonableness and appropriateness.
  • Identify potential co-sponsorship opportunities for any proposed events and discuss them with the event coordinator to determine their appropriateness, requirements, and potential benefits.
• Prepare and submit to the SA and Center for Student Engagement (CSE) (with assistance from the TSO Presidents and officers of the sub-organizations) the annual budget request and update to the five-year strategic planning document for the organizations’ annual funding requests.
  • In coordination with the Presidents, liaise with appropriate individuals within the CSE and SA operating structure on any new procedures or requirements the organizations should be aware of in our funding requests.
  • Coordinate the annual registration process for all organizations to ensure that all are registered on time and understand the requirements for registration for an umbrella organization and associated sub-organizations.

Professional Development Committee (PD)

Professional Development Chair

• Works with his/her MPAA/PPSA counterpart to create and assist with opportunities for Trachtenberg School students to develop their careers and professional skills through workshops, panel presentations, and networking events.
• Acts as the primary liaison to the Trachtenberg School career development staff (including the Director of Career Development Services) and assists school staff in the organizing, planning, and advertising of professional development events
• Works with his/her MPAA/PPSA counterpart to order business cards each summer
• Organizes the mentoring program for incoming students and mentor/mentee opportunities for engagement

GPAC Representative

As part of the Professional Development Committee the Graduate Public Affairs Council (GPAC) representative is responsible for serving as a sitting member of the council for the George Washington University.  His/her responsibilities include:

• Attend monthly meeting to coordinate with GPAC member schools and gage interest in activities
• Engaging with members of the GPAC community to share opportunities to attend events
• Organizing and hosting host networking happy hours, academic events and other collaborative activities.
• Partnering with other student organizations in the DC Public Affairs Consortium to increase access to professional contacts and networks and support the efforts of future public administrators

Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) Committee

D&I Chair

• Represents and acts as an advocate for the Diversity and Inclusion Association to the Trachtenberg and broader GW community
• Provides guidance and vision for the Diversity and Inclusion Association
• Has financial oversight of the funds distributed to the Diversity and Inclusion Association
• Reports to the TSO Executive Board and recommends certain actions for consideration 
• Coordinates with his/her MPA/MPP counterpart to prepare the agenda for and preside over D&I committee meetings
• Aids in the planning and execution of monthly events open to all TSPPPA students
• Works with faculty, other student groups and University departments to further the mission of the Association

Trachtenberg School Orientation and Welcoming Organization (TSOWO)

New Student Liaison

• Co-Chair the Trachtenberg School Orientation and Welcoming Organization (TSOWO) with his/her MPP/MPA counterpart.
• Coordinates with the TSPPPA program coordinator about any support necessary for welcoming new students such as coordinating student organization participation at the Accepted Students Days.
• Works with his/her MPP/MPA counterpart to coordinate new student orientation including managing coordinating all student committees for various components of the day.
• Works with his/her MPP/MPA counterpart to coordinate student/faculty retreat in the fall.
• Organizes a committee in the spring for carrying out Orientation and Retreat
• Works with his/her MPP/MPA counterpart and the TSO board to coordinate elections for next year’s Board positions, which involves info session, emailing board descriptions, and orchestrating submissions and results. May organize an election committee at his/her discretion to assist in carrying out this responsibility.  Note: Election results are formally announced by Dr. Newcomer at the TSPPPA Holiday Party.
• Works with the Trachtenberg School Organization (umbrella organization) on all budgetary items and keeps other officers aware of decisions regarding dates, prices and support from other student organizations.

Committee for Community Engagement (CCE)

Social Coordinator

• Co-Chairs the Trachtenberg School Committee for Community Engagement.
• Works with his/her MPA/MPP counterpart to organize social activities for TSPPPA students including happy hours, cultural and DC events, and other events that students may suggest.
• Works with his/her MPA/MPP counterpart and other Board members as necessary to coordinate the planning and execution of Fall Ball, Spring Fling, and the graduation dinner.
• Coordinates and/or co-sponsors events with other TSO organizations, GPAC, or other professional schools at GW.
• Provides support for Retreat and Student Orientation.

Volunteer Coordinator

• Co-Chairs the Trachtenberg School Committee for Community Engagement.
• Coordinates and organizes volunteer events for the Trachtenberg community, with his/her MPA/MPP counterpart, including charity races, hands-on volunteer projects, and donations to nonprofit organizations.
• Acts as a point person for students interested in volunteering and can help gather resources and information on volunteer opportunities of interest.
• Liaises with TSO colleagues on events related to community service and volunteering.
• Provides support for retreat and new student orientation sponsored by TSOWO.

To run, submit a short description of your qualifications for the position and why you want to serve on the board. Email your description along with a current photo to Alden Wells. All descriptions must be submitted by midnight on Saturday, November 5, 2011.
Elections will take place electronically the week of November 14th and winners will be announced at the TSPPPA Holiday party on December 9th. Winners of contested elections will be notified in advance of the party.
If you have any questions in the meantime, please contact Alden Wells or Shannon McNamee.

Don’t miss October’s Volunteer Opportunities with your fellow T-bergers. This is a great way to take a break from studying (BOO) and have fun with your awesome grad school friends (HURRAY!).

1) Join as at Carpenter’s Shelter on Saturday Oct 15th from 9-11 for Children’s Hour where we work with children living in a homeless shelter. While there, we work with children of all ages while their parents attend job training and mentoring to help get the families back on their back and back into a home.

The shelter is located off of the Braddock Road Metro near Old Town Alexandria. They also have a parking lot if you prefer to drive.

Friends and family are welcome to join us! So grab a buddy and come join us for an great Saturday morning!

2) Join your fellow Trachtenberg students October 29, 2011 for AIDS Walk Washington, a 5K fundraising walk and timed run.  The walk benefits Whitman-Walker Health, a non-profit community-based health organization which provides dependable, high-quality, comprehensive and accessible health care to those infected with or affected by HIV/AIDS.  This is an excellent opportunity to join the Trachtenberg community and the greater DC community in raising awareness and support for our neighbors affected by HIV/AIDS.  In addition to the walk and 5K run, there are opportunities to volunteer with the event itself.  You do not want to miss this event!

For more information about the event and to JOIN OUR TEAM visit www.aidswalkwashington.org/. Follow the link to “Register to Walk/Run”, then select “Join a Team” and choose “Team Trachtenberg” from the dropdown menu.  If you are interested in volunteering in addition to or instead of walking/running, please let me know as soon as possible.

As always, feel free to contact us at wlking@gwmail.gwu or Peggy Chasler at chaslerm@gwmail.gwu.edu if you have any questions.

In years past this night has been a student versus faculty competition, but this year we are going to switch it up. Teams are formed based on your concentration (see below). Haven’t picked your concentration yet? That’s ok because we have a group for you! If you don’t see a team that seems to fit your concentration, please feel free to jump on any team you would like. This is all about having a good time while building relationships.

If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact me. Otherwise, you better bring your A game on the 10th!!

TRACHTENBERG ANNUAL TRIVIA NIGHT

Monday, October 10, 2011, 8:30pm – 10pm

Tonic Bar – Foggy Bottom

2036 G Street NW

CONCENTRATION TEAMS

• Budget & Public Finance
• Education & Urban Policy
• Federal Policy, Politics, and Management/National Security
• Health Policy
• Managing State and Local Governments
• Nonprofit Management
• Program Evaluation and Analysis
• Other/Undecided

Let the Trivia begin!

Who?  All Trachtenberg Students and Faculty

When? Saturday, September 17 at 1:00 p.m. until Sunday, September 18 at 12:00 p.m.

Where? Prince William Forest Park, Triangle, Virginia

Packing List

Game Plan

We’re going to keep the activities a semi-surprise, but we’ll be outside for the bulk of the afternoon. Here’s a general outline so you know what to expect.

How Do I Sign Up? 

Cost: $30 members/ $40 Non-Members

Accommodations:   Each cabin sleeps 10 people each and there are showers on site!

Lunch, dinner and breakfast are included!

Sign up form: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dG9TQ1kyMEVLeWpOUEZTRUpzeWUyMXc6MQ

Deadline: You must register either online or in person by Wednesday, September 14 at 12:00 p.m.

Please let us know if you have any questions. We look forward to seeing you on September 17 and 18!

- Shannon McNamee and Alden Wells

smnamee@gwmail.gwu.edu and wellsa@gwmail.gwu.edu

Wednesday 9/7 from 4-5pm OR

Thursday 9/8 from 6-7pm

If you are at all interested in the program, I *strongly* urge you to attend one of these two sessions or else email me to find an alternative time to meet! Attending a meeting does not obligate you to participate

The orientation agenda will be to:

1) Review the mission and structure of our program and provide some context and background about Anacostia High School to help you get started as tutors;

2) Hand out the schedule for potential tutoring subjects, days and time slots and collect information from you about your availability so that we can put together a regular schedule; and

3) Explain DC Public Schools’ process for becoming an approved volunteer in the District (getting a background check and child abuse history clearance).  We will go through this process together and hopefully it will be painless!

I will also explain the role and functions of the new Leadership Board and how you can become more involved in program planning through that body.  Applications (extremely brief, just a couple of paragraphs about your experience and why you would like to join) will be due by Saturday 9/10 at midnight for those interested in participating on the board this year.  The board will begin meetings during the week of 9/12 and tutoring will start the week of 9/26.

Looking forward to meeting you all and talking more about the program!

Meghan McHugh mpmchugh@gwmail.gwu.edu

Come by the Policy Perspectives office on the 6th floor (in the career services office, across from the elevator) on Tuesday, September 6th from 4-6 or Friday, September 9th from 2-4 to ask any questions about being an author, book reviewer, or editor. Have an article, but aren’t sure how long it should be? Interested in being an editor but want to talk about the time commitment? Great, just come on by! And as promised, there will be pie.

Email Rachel Brody rbrody@gwmail.gwu.edu or Josh Nadas jnadas@gwu.edu if you have any questions!

 * Build tutoring and mentoring relationships with high school students * Plan public service curriculum and service-learning opportunities * Get involved in the DC community * Take on an exciting leadership role on campus * Join a community interested in education and youth policy issues *

The Anacostia Public Service Program is a long-standing partnership between the Trachtenberg School and the Academies at Anacostia, a DC neighborhood public high school.  Twenty years after its inception, the program continues to thrive, with numerous Trachtenberg students serving as tutors and mentors each year.  This year the program is expanding and we need your help!  We are currently recruiting both new and returning students as in-classroom tutors, after school mentors, and various leadership positions on the new leadership board.  Join us today!

Anacostia High School students will…

• Receive in-classroom support from TSPPPA tutors during the school day
• Engage in service-learning and explore issues and career opportunities in public service through a new after-school component

Trachtenberg tutors will…

• Serve in leadership and mentoring roles both within and outside of the TSPPPA community (at flexible times and levels of involvement that work for your schedule!)
• Lead service-learning projects to share our passion for public service with local students
• Be exposed to a thoughtful community of TSPPPA students interested in education and youth policy issues, through professional development and social opportunities on campus and around DC

Interested in becoming a tutor or joining the leadership board? Email Meghan McHugh at mpmchugh@gwmail.gwu.edu or sign up at new student orientation!

The first Group Think will be taking place on Tuesday, September 6th from 4:30 to 6:00 pm in MPA 622.  We look forward to seeing you there!

- Lead a group of ~10 new students in a 45 minute discussion. You’ll need to read the common articles – they are short – but we’ll give you questions.

- Attend a short training tentatively scheduled for Wednesday evening on August 24.

- Be at orientation on Friday, August 26 from 1:45-2:30 pm.

For more info or to sign-up, send an email to Alicia at amazzara@gwmail.gwu.edu.