MSU Political Leadership Program calls for applicants

Contact: Jackie Delgado, (517) 355-6672, Ext. 131, delgado8@msu.edu; James G. Agee, agee@cablespeed.com; or Russ White, University Relations, (517) 355-2281, whiterus@ur.msu.edu

7/1/2005

EAST LANSING, Mich. – Applications for 24 leadership-training fellowships are now being accepted for Michigan State University's Michigan Political Leadership Program (MPLP).

The multi-partisan MPLP is one of only a handful of programs of its kind in the nation. It brings together community leaders, engaging them in a public-policy and leadership-education curriculum. The deadline for submitting applications is Sept. 2.

Practical politics, public policy analysis and process, personal leadership development and effective governance are the cornerstones of the program’s innovative curriculum.

“All interested in making a difference in their community and the state of Michigan are encouraged to apply to receive this hands-on training,” said James Agee, MPLP co-director and president of J.G. Agee Consultants L.L.C.

The fellowship – valued at $12,000 – covers lodging, meals and program costs. Travel and some parking expenses are the responsibility of the participant. Funding for the fellowship program is provided by the MSU Office of the Provost, the MSU College of Social Science, MPLP alumni and Michigan businesses, associations and labor organizations. Grant funding is provided by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and the Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation.

Since 1992, MPLP has graduated nearly 350 fellows who have used the skills and relationships acquired through the program to benefit their communities. More than 100 have served in public offices including the Michigan Senate and House of Representatives, and state superintendent.

“Fellows benefit from the instruction of top consultants, advisers and elected officials,” said Douglas Roberts, director of MSU’s Institute for Public Policy and Social Research (IPPSR), which administers the program. “Our graduates emerge with the ability to get elected to office and make sound policy decisions once they get there.”

Becoming an MPLP fellow represents a substantial commitment. Participants are required to attend one weekend session per month from February through November, generally beginning with dinner Friday evening and meeting through Saturday afternoon. Some sessions will begin as early as 1 p.m. on Friday to incorporate MPLP’s public policy briefing series, open to fellows and the general public.

MPLP is administered and supported by and is a signature program of the College of Social Science.

More information, including the fellowship application, is available online at www.ippsr.msu.edu/mplp under “fellowship information.” For additional details, contact the MPLP office at (517) 355-6672, Ext. 131.