James Whittier Parker: “The Congress to Campus Program addresses a significant shortfall in civic learning and engagement among the country's…”

“The Congress to Campus Program addresses a significant shortfall in civic learning and engagement among the country's young people of college age. It combines traditional educational content about American government and politics (especially Congress) with a strong message about public service, all delivered by men and women who have 'walked the walk.' The Program sends bipartisan pairs of former Members of Congress to visit college, university and community college campuses around the country. During each visit, the Members conduct classes, hold community forums, meet informally with students and faculty, visit high schools and civic organizations, and do interviews and talk show appearances with local press and media. This year, Congress to Campus has expanded to include former Member participation in Washington, DC area meetings with student groups wishing to learn about public service, the U.S. Congress and Federal Government, and important political and policy issues. All told, this academic year former Members spoke to more than 13,000 college and high schools students under the auspices of the Congress to Campus Program.”