Civic engagement in Virginia's Capitol

by Jan Gillis ('07)

SUMMARY: James Madison University encourages widespread participation in civic life. One such example of preparing students to be educated and enlightened citizens is the annual Student Government Association lobbying experience in Richmond, Virginia. The trip allows students to meet legislators and have meaningful conversations about matters of concern to the student body.

In February 2016, JMU’s Student Government Association conducted their annual lobbying trip to Richmond, Virginia.

Students talked with legislators.

They discussed concerns that are important to the student body and the university.

During the trip, students met with a total of 40 legislators.

There was a photo-op with Gov. Terry McAuliffe.

Students had a meeting with Lt. Gov. Ralph Northam.

They talked with then-Secretary of the Commonwealth Levar Stoney ('04), a former JMU SGA president.

They met with Virginia Supreme Court Justice William Mims.

The lobbying trip offered a unique view into the political process.

Students saw that elected officials are receptive to student opinion.

They saw the need to make the effort to let legislators know what is important to them.

Opportunities like this groom students to be engaged and enlightened citizens.

Civic engagement experiences prepare students to be involved with the political process—from voting in elections to staying in contact with their local legislators.