The Missouri Public Affairs Academy started this past Saturday with 28 high school students from around the state representing 20 different high schools. They will be on the Missouri State campus through next Sunday exploring Public Affairs and how to affect the “Greater Good”. The 2009 Missouri Public Affairs Academy, a 9-day residential program on the campus of Missouri State University, is sponsored by the Office of the Provost and Greenwood Laboratory School. It is an excellent opportunity for motivated and high achieving Missouri high school students who have an interest in community involvement and public affairs. The Academy offers a variety of experiences related to public affairs: guest speakers from government, the media, interest groups and Missouri State faculty, a trip to dialogue with state elected officials in Jefferson City, and service projects. Leadership training is offered, and each student prepares a detailed plan for a service project that they commit to implementing in their home community during the 2009-10 academic year. The nine-day Academy is designed to give opportunities for students to: Explore public affairs topics relating to American political culture, federalism, freedom and justice, the role of media in society, and the global community; Consider opposing sides of issues, a variety of viewpoints, and differing approaches to civic participation; Dialogue with distinguished guest speakers including state elected officials, community leaders, journalists and university professors; and Participate in activities, simulations and projects designed to develop skills necessary to participate effectively in their own communities. Academy is coordinated by Ms. Candace Fisk, Associate Professor at Greenwood and MMPA Director. For more information, visit the MPAA website at www.missouristate.edu/mpaa.
The Missouri Public Affairs Academy
The Missouri Public Affairs Academy started this past Saturday with 28 high school students from around the state representing 20 different high schools.