Policy Pathways - Summer Academy for Policy Leadership and Public Service
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(Sponsored Content)
We’re excited to share that Policy Pathways and the VCU Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs will host the Summer Academy for Policy Leadership and Public Service from June 22 - July 3, 2025.
The Summer Academy program is an in-person and online learning program for rising high school sophomores, juniors, seniors; recent high school graduates; and college students, age 15 - 25.
This dynamic, college-level experience will expose participants to real-world policy, government, and leadership opportunities by combining fun with intensive learning. Each rigorous but rewarding two-week session offers public-policy coursework. Course contact hours will exceed those in a standard 16-week (3 credit- hour) semester course and this summer's program will be held on the VCU campus and online. Lunch and snacks included for in-person participants.
The theme of our Opening Public Policy Forum is World on Fire: Grand Challenges in US Foreign Policy.
Top professors, policy experts, and leading decision-makers introduce program participants to policy formation and analysis, economics, public administration, research methods, and statistics, as well as critical thinking, advocacy, and effective, readable writing.
As highlighted in this recent press release, this program provides students with a powerful foundation in public policy and civic engagement.
“From emergency preparedness to food safety to incredible parks and recreation, excellence in public service doesn’t just magically happen. It requires a talented and dedicated workforce. The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs is proud to partner in supporting Policy Pathways’ Summer Academy for Leadership and Public Service.”
~Dr. Susan T. Gooden, Dean of VCU’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs
The moderator and panelists are from George Mason University's Schar School of Policy and Government:
• Guadalupe Correa-Cabrera, Professor
• Michael Hunzeker, Associate Professor
• Philip Martin, Assistant Professor of International Security
• Moderator: Kristina Bonfiglio, Senior Director of Enrollment and Marketing
Course content will focus on real-world policy issues and offer opportunities to research, design, and conduct policy-related projects through capstone teams.
This year's Capstone projects will focus on:
1. The Necessity of Civilian-Led Data Collection on In-Custody Deaths
2. Trailblazer Tales: The Legacy of L. Douglas Wilder
3. Cashew farming and Capitalism in Angola
4. Policy Issues in Equitable Study Abroad Opportunities: Challenges and Solutions
5. Reducing Youth Recidivism in Virginia
“Summer Academy participants become changemakers in public policy, public administration, and international affairs. Join us to build your knowledge, find your voice, and boost your confidence!”
– Dr. D. Pulane Lucas, President and CEO of Policy Pathways
If you or someone you know is interested in joining us this summer, please create a My Path account and then access the online Summer Academy application.
The extended due date for applications is May 15, 2025. Late applications only accepted on the basis of remaining space. Scholarships are also available. For additional information: call (866) 465-6671 or email info@policypathways.org.
