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Civic engagement in Virginia's Capitol

Nation and World

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.

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

Photo from JMU SGA lobbying trip February 2016 — Students talked with legislators.

Photo from JMU SGA lobbying trip February 2016 — They discussed concerns that are important to the student body and the university.

Photo from JMU SGA lobbying trip February 2016 — During the trip, students met with a total of 40 legislators.

Photo from JMU SGA lobbying trip February 2016 — There was a photo-op with Gov. Terry McAuliffe.

Photo from JMU SGA lobbying trip February 2016 — Students had a meeting with Lt. Gov. Ralph Northam.

Photo from JMU SGA lobbying trip February 2016 — They talked with then-Secretary of the Commonwealth Levar Stoney ('04), a former JMU SGA president.

Photo from JMU SGA lobbying trip February 2016 — They met with Virginia Supreme Court Justice William Mims.

Photo from JMU SGA lobbying trip February 2016 — The lobbying trip offered a unique view into the political process.

Photo from JMU SGA lobbying trip February 2016 — Students saw that elected officials are receptive to student opinion.

Photo from JMU SGA lobbying trip February 2016 — They saw the need to make the effort to let legislators know what is important to them.

Photo from JMU SGA lobbying trip February 2016 — Opportunities like this groom students to be engaged and enlightened citizens.

Photo from JMU SGA lobbying trip February 2016 — Civic engagement experiences prepare students to be involved with the political process—from voting in elections to staying in contact with their local legislators.

Madison magazine thanks Matthew Mueller (’17), chair of the SGA Legislative Action Committee, for contributing to this feature. Photos by Mike Miriello (’09M).

James Madison University

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Harrisonburg, Virginia 22807

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by Jan Gillis ('07)