The Center for Student Political Studies (CSPS), the new student volunteer branch of the Center for Public Policy & Political Studies (CPPPS), is up and running. This organization will focus on public policy issues, and has several politically themed events on the agenda.
CSPS was conceptualized in September when the Student Government Association’s Parliamentarian, Avy Gonzalez, talked with Director of CPPPS Peck Young about creating a student organization focused on public policy.
“We’re very, very excited about it (CSPS). They have a great deal of potential. We’re looking forward to working with them,” said Young.
CSPS has a busy semester coming up.
“Our mission is to provide student access to forums and workshops, to plan major political events, lobby legislators, and be involved in political campaigns and internships,” Gonzalez said.
The CSPS has already taken part in a couple of events in the month since it began.
“We’ve had breakfast with the Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, Jim Pitts. On Nov. 14, a workshop on writing effective resumes and dealing with the government on both state and national levels, was held at the Capitol,” Gonazalez said.
CSPS will be attending The Center for Politics and Governance’s Perspectives Series on Nov. 20 at the Bass Lecture Hall. The event will feature Mayor Bill White of Houston.
“I’m really excited to have this opportunity to go to forums and have the ability to meet new people who have worked with politicians and know the ins and outs of how it [politics] works,” said CSPS Secretary, Paul Theobold.
ACC History Professor and CSPS member, David Lauderback said “This is a remarkable group of very energetic students who are going to make a difference. They are optimistic and ambitious.”
In 2010 CSPS will attend a health care forum event at the Capitol that will feature a mock congressional joint committee composed of real-life doctors, nurses, and other medical personal. They are also hosting “How to Fix the Economy,” an interactive student event at Eastview in March.
“There are plenty of opportunities and exposure to the political process,” said Gonzalez. “The networking opportunities for people who want a career in politics are amazing.”
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