Friday, February 29, 2008

Everett Public Service Internships: NY, DC

Everett Public Service Summer Internship Program - New York and Washington, DC, USA

There is no better teacher than experience. College and graduate students who have participated in the Everett Public Service Internship Program agree the months they spent in "the real world," beyond campus gates, were among the most rewarding of their lives.
A sense of community and camaraderie is fostered among the Interns in our Program. Each internship lasts ten weeks and provides $280 weekly for expenses. Accepted candidates will determine a starting date with their Intern Coordinator*. Everett Interns work on substantive projects, develop professional skills, and gain knowledge about the enormous societal impact of public service. New York City and Washington, D. C. Interns gather to attend exciting weekly events, both educational and social, presenting distinguished leaders and young heroes from the public sector.

* Internships start no earlier than May 26th and no later than June 16th in 2008.

In the summer of 2008, over 180 Everett Interns will use their knowledge and skills in over 60 organizations dedicated to improving the world. During ten weeks, Everett Interns will work diligently with skilled and dedicated mentors to gain first-hand experience on the front lines of public service.

Everett interns are a diverse group of current undergraduate and graduate students. They come from across the nation, attend public and private colleges and universities, major in subjects ranging from engineering to philosophy, and from political science to art history. Interns span the ethnic, racial and political spectrum. What binds them together is their personal commitment to "the repair of the world." Indeed, they exemplify the creed articulated by Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.: "Everyone can be great because everyone can serve."

http://www.everettinternships.org/about/index.html

PhD in political science--my but we're slow

Professor Sousa pointed out this recent study and discussion of doctoral completion rates among various disciplines. Lee Siegelman at The Monkey Cage (a blog run by faculty at George Washington) sums up:
  • At every time point, students in political science, anthropology, and sociology had lower completion rates than their counterparts in psychology, economics, and communications. For example, by the end of Year 7 only about 27% of political science doctoral students had finished up.
  • Political science students didn’t just throw in the towel after seven years. In fact, by the end of Year 10, their completion rate had risen to about 45% — still far below the 65 or 66% rate for students in psychology and communications but far above the seven-year cumulative completion rate of 27% in political science.
  • On the other side of the coin, the cumulative attrition rate for political science doctoral students by Year 7 was approximately 35%. That was the highest within the social sciences.
  • Some simple math establishes that about 38% of the political science doctoral who had entered seven years earlier were still in the program (the other 62% having completed their degree work or dropped out). And almost half of these 38% were still enrolled even after ten years.
Ten years. Ten years. Ten. Years.

Thursday, February 28, 2008

Farewell Professor Bonura: Oxford calls

We've just heard in the department that our resident political theorist and specialist on Southeast Asia has been offered a position at Oxford University. Professor Bonura had tendered his resignation this fall so that he could search for a position in the UK to be close to his partner, and only this morning did he return from an interview from Oxford. Professor Bonura will be a member of the Centre for Political Ideologies (CPI) working on a comparative study of political thought.

Wow. We've been melancholy this year about his impending departure but overjoyed by his success. But no surprise, really--UPS: The Oxford of the South Puget Sound.

Congratulations, Professor Bonura!

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Torey Holderith '09: US Air Force conference recap

That's Torey on the left wearing the tie.

USAFA Roundtable

Professor O'Neil,

Attached is a pair of photos from my time at USAFA. My camera died after three pictures, and so attached are the best two.

The first picture is of my roundtable discussion group. I spent a total of 15 hours or so, discussing and developing ideas with this diverse group on how to "Dismantle Terrorism." Within my group was an Iraqi surgeon, a USNA Midshipmen, two USAFA cadets, a NMMI cadet, a cadet from the Greek Air Force Academy, and students from across the States. The round table leader was Dr. Mary-beth Ulrich, a graduate of USAFA and current professor at the US Army War College. All in all the conference represented students from 15 different countries, and over 60 US colleges. It was a very interesting experience that I strongly encourage students to attend next year. It offers a special opportunity to think about policy formulation and implementation, as well as many new perspectives on current issues from within the government.

USAFA_Chapel

Of course no trip to USAFA would be complete without a tour of the distinct chapel on campus, and so the second picture is of the chapel. The chapel is often used as a symbol of USAFA, and is fittingly lined with blue stained glass, making the entire inside glow blue. Somewhat fitting for the Air Force...

The final product of the conference was a 70 page book of policy recommendations on how to defeat terrorism on the Diplomatic, Intelligence, Military, and Economic levels that will be sent throughout DOD, DHS, and while no one is naive enough to think that we really solved any problems the practice in developing and thinking about policy was extraordinary. I would happily provide more information to anyone who desires it. I cannot stress enough how positive of an experience this was for me, and so I urge those interested in pursuing a career within Politics and Government to consider going to this or similar conferences during their undergraduate career.

Respectfully,

Torey Holderith
Class of 2009

Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Chris Pohlad '07: Talking politics in Budapest

Pic 002

For the past six months I have been living and working in Budapest, Hungary as an analyst for a Pepsi bottling company that sells and distributes in Central Europe. Despite the apparent disconnect between my degree (international relations) and what I find myself doing on a daily basis (business) I can say that my experience has heightened my awareness and knowledge of foreign affairs on many different levels. Whether it be my proximity to Kosovo, who just declared independence from Serbia, or learning the hard way that Hungarians have an unbelievable cynicism for their government (justified for a myriad of reasons) I am very fortunate to be applying my interest in politics in such a dynamic and transformative part of the world.

Before I left for Hungary Patrick O'Neil put me in touch with two politics professors at the University of Economics and Politics called Corvinus University in the heart of Budapest. After meeting with them several times over lunch (they are among the few people in the city whom I can speak to without worrying about the language barrier) they asked if I would be willing to participate in a discussion group with a club quite similar to Puget Sound's very own Political Science Association. I happily agreed and was subsequently invited to speak to roughly 20 students on the state of the U.S. presidential election. Despite being somewhat removed from the excitement of the race I believed I could offer them a practical view of the nominating process, the candidates themselves, and what I think (for what it's worth) the outcome will be come the nominating conventions in August and September.

After preparing several times given the evolution of the race after Super Tuesday and again following the Potomac Primaries, I settled on what I thought was a non-biased and informative outline of topics that would be interesting to them. To summarize I focused on the fundamental differences between the parties, nominating processes (proportional representation vs. a winner take all format), the four leading candidates at the time (McCain, Huckabee, Clinton, and Obama), the demographics that each cater to and why, as well as an attempt to explain the role of superdelegates. This last topic was particularly challenging as I myself recently learned of their significance and given the delicate English I had to use in order to be understood. Once finished I was asked repeatedly about what superdelegates are (imagine trying to understand this concept in a foreign language and with little background on our nominating process) as well as detailed questions on particular candidate's policies ranging from global warming to Putin's Russia. To be sure, many of their questions I could not answer and was left to say "umm, I'm not quite familiar with so and so's stance on China's economic situation." However, I think my inability to adequately field some of their questions was testament to the fact that I was there to offer a "practical" view of how the typical American voter looks at the election.

Pic 026

The most interesting part of the discussion was when I posed a question to the group about divisiveness in Hungarian politics (if you think it's bad in the US...). My question was straightforward, something along the line of "I understand politics is not a particularly popular topic among Hungarian citizens, but could you please offer me an explanation of the differences between the major political parties and are politics so divisive that families have been literally torn apart by the issue?" In retrospect maybe my question was a bit intrusive, if seemingly broad, because no one spoke for roughly a minute. So I moved on having my question answered by the sheer silence of the room. I later came to realize, though this is becoming less and less the case with every generation, that the majority of people are apprehensive to say anything about their beliefs, political or otherwise, possibly due in part to the fact that Hungary has just recently (relatively speaking) come out of a communist regime that prohibited such expressions. These are the types of cultural differences that make living in Central Europe so interesting and unpredictable. Overall, it was a very informative experience for me and I was glad to be able to participate.

I hope all is well with the University and the PG department in particular and look forward to hearing from other students and alumni about your experiences on campus or otherwise. Take care.

Chris Pohlad '07

"I can't find any internships!"

Oh yeah? Well, the department has collected nearly 150 of them.
http://del.icio.us/upspolitics/internships

Jobs for Seniors: US PIRG

As a graduating senior you are no doubt trying to decide what you will do next year, or even for the next 5 years. I want to let you know more about opportunities in the public interest field.

www.uspirg.org/jobs

U.S.PIRG is a federation of state-based public interest advocacy groups. This year we are hiring 100 graduating college students to determine where this country is going: to solve our energy problems; to reform the campaign finance system; to safeguard individuals from identity theft; to fight hunger and homelessness; and make an impact on many other public interest issues.

We will be accepting applications for next year's campus organizer and fellowship programs until April 1, 2008. I invite you to apply by sending a cover letter and resumé to cspivey@pirg.org.

For more information I invite you to check out our website.

Sincerely,
Colleen Spivey
U.S. PIRG
U.S. PIRG Recruitment Department
44 Winter St. 4th floor
Boston, MA 02108
(617) 747-4421 (o)
(202) 997-5461 (c)
(617) 292-8057 (f)
www.uspirg.org/jobs

Monday, February 25, 2008

Aspen Institute Minority Fellowships

Aspen Institute - Internships (William Randolph Hearst Endowed Fellowship for Minority Students) - Washington, DC, USA

Nonprofit Sector Research Fund Offers William Randolph Hearst Endowed Fellowship for Minority Students

Deadlines:
March 15, 2008 (Summer Internship)
July 15, 2008 (Fall Internship)

The Nonprofit Sector Research Fund

(http://www.nonprofitresearch.org/ ), a grantmaking program of the Aspen Institute (http://www.aspeninstitute.org ), offers the William Randolph Hearst Endowed Fellowship three times a year.

The fellowship, which is based on academic excellence and need, is open to both undergraduate and graduate students who are members of minority groups. The Hearst Fellow serves as an intern with the fund. Through this program, the fund seeks to introduce a diverse group of students to issues relating to philanthropy, volunteerism, and nonprofit organizations. Recipients may arrange with their colleges or universities to receive academic credit for this experience.

In his or her internship, the Hearst Fellow undertakes general research and program support for the Fund's grantmaking and outreach efforts.

The ideal candidate for this fellowship is a highly motivated continuing graduate or undergraduate student from an underrepresented community. She or he should have an excellent academic record and also have the following: outstanding research skills; a background in the social sciences or humanities; excellent writing and communication skills; demonstrated financial need; and American citizenship.

The student must be able to intern for 10 to 15 weeks at the Washington, D.C., office of the Aspen Institute. Generally the fall and spring internships will be part-time (10 to 20 hours per week), while summer internships will be full-time. All travel and housing costs must be covered by the student.

A fellowship grant of between $2,500 and $5,000 will be awarded, depending on the recipient's educational level, financial need, and time commitment.

For the Summer 2008 internship, the application deadline is March 15, 2008. For the Fall 2008 internship, the deadline is July 15, 2008.

Visit the Nonprofit Sector Research Fund for complete program and application information.

RFP Link: http://fconline.foundationcenter.org/pnd/10011353/nporesearch

Cuba after Fidel: The UPS connection

From Professor Share:

image002
“There his is no idea or force, including the strong arm of the empire, that can destroy this revolution . . .There will not be a post-Castro era because there won’t be a post-revolutionary era.”

During my various trips to Cuba I was able to meet two younger Cuban leaders who have been mentioned as possible successors for some of Fidel’s many roles in the Cuban government and the Communist Party. Fernando Ramírez de Estenoz visited our campus about a decade ago when he was a diplomat stationed in Washington D.C. When I was last in Cuba leading a Stanford study tour Ramírez spoke to my group when we visited the Foreign Ministry. He strikes me as smart and open-minded. The more likely choice to replace Fidel is Carlos Lage, a 56-year old economist who has been acting more or less as a prime-minister. Lage oversaw the economic reforms in Cuba during the economic free-fall of the 1990s, and is viewed as a proponent of further reforms. I met him in the Cuban residence of a top Spanish diplomat many years ago. He struck me as a brilliant and pragmatic reformer. Descriptions of these and other possible replacements for Fidel can be found at http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080221/ap_on_re_la_am_ca/cuba_next_generation_1

Friday, February 22, 2008

Global Youth Connect: US/Jordan and Iraqi Refugees

We've had an alum do GYC in Africa, so if you have questions let me know--Prof. O'Neil

Global Youth Connect - American Youth Activists (ages 18-30) for Iraqi Refugee Solidarity Initiative - USA / Jordan

We are currently seeking applications from American youth activists (ages 18-30) who are interested in participating in an Iraqi Refugee Solidarity Initiative. Ten U.S. participants will be selected to join in the program activities described below and will work together with Iraqi and Jordanian youth over a period of six months to help address the Iraqi refugee crisis in Jordan. We greatly appreciate your help in getting the word out to people wh! o might be interested in this unique opportunity.

Det ailed program and application information can be found on our website: www.globalyouthconnect.org/participate.

Application deadline: March 21, 2008

Program Activities: This joint initiative will bring together 30 youth (ages 18-30) from Iraq, Jordan and the U.S. with the goal of better understanding the root causes of the crisis, placing it within a larger regional and global context, and identifying concrete ways in which they can take steps towards addressing the situation. The initiative will take place over a 6-month period, incorporating a series of distinct yet interconnected elements, including: a peer learning community in Jordan, community engagement and outreach, and an evaluation and reflection retreat.< br>

Peer Learning Community
July 25 - August 18, 2008

The first phase of the initiative will bring together 30 participants from Iraq, Jordan and the U.S. (10 from each country) for three weeks in Amman, Jordan. As part of a peer learning community, participants will engage in dialogue, build skills in conflict transformation and human rights activism, and engage in a joint fieldwork project and action planning.

Community Engagement & Outreach
August 19, 2008 - January 2, 2009
After the initial three-week learning community in Jordan, participants will spend several months organizing creative, follow-up activities in their own communities to address the Iraqi refugee crisis.

Evaluation & Reflection Retreat
January 3-4, 2009

At the end of the program, participants will once again come together to evaluate and reflect on their action efforts, reconnect with o! ther participants and identify next steps. For U.S. participants, this weekend program will take place at a retreat center in upstate New York.

Program Costs: While GYC and its partner organizations in Jordan will help underwrite the costs of this program, U.S. participants will be expected to contribute and/or fundraise $2,500 to help cover the costs of running this program. In addition to this, participants will need to cover their international airfare and some other expenses associated with their participation in the program. Please see detailed information and fundraising guide available on our website for more information: www.globalyouthconnect.org/participate.

Thursday, February 21, 2008

Professor Weinberger's Forthcoming Book

Congratulations to Professor Weinberger, who has been given a contract by Praeger Publishers for his book Restoring the Balance: War Powers in an Age of Terror. Like many of us, he'll be busy this summer working on the book, which flows out of his teachings on foreign policy, national security, and constitutional law.

Buyer, be fair (trade coffee)

On March 7, 2008, the World Trade Center Tacoma is hosting a breakfast discussion about Fair Trade. Our speakers for the event are Prof. Matt Warning from UPS (Economics) and Mark Viramontes, owner of Origin 23 (formerly Firehouse Coffee on the corner of 6th and Union). The discussion will show the documentary, “Buyer, Be Fair: The Promise of Product Certification” that Prof. Warning consulted on, and was premiered at UPS. In addition to the documentary, our speakers will answer questions and discuss the realities of being involved in fair trade business.

The event is open to the public, and we would welcome students to attend!

The breakfast will be on Friday, March 7 from 8am until 9:30am at the Law Offices of Gordon Thomas Honeywell in the Wells Fargo Building downtown. The address is 1501 Pacific Avenue, Floor 21.

More information is available on our website: www.wtcta.org.

If you wouldn’t mind passing around this information, we would certainly appreciate it!

Best,

Colleen Gause
Communications and Education Coordinator
World Trade Center Tacoma
950 Pacific Avenue, Suite 310
Tacoma, WA 98402
cgause@wtcta.org
Phone: 253.396.1022
UPS Logger * Class of 2006

Wednesday, February 20, 2008

Mark Scott '74 on a life inside intelligence

PICT0022

Yesterday PG 250 (our required course in research and writing in the major) was fortunate to host Mark Scott '74, who after graduation spent 28 years working in cryptologic service at the National Security Agency. His comments on work in intelligence and security, on life in DC, and how to be flexible in approach one's future were invaluable. Mr. Scott was kind enough to write up his main points, and I copy them below. Many thanks! If you'd like to contact Mr. Scott, send me (Professor O'Neil) a note.


The following is based on my experiences and represent my opinion.

Careers:

1. Be flexible on the types of careers you pursue. Have a backup plan if your primary doesn’t work out.

2. Make sure there is some sort of relationship between your interests, education and skills and the career field you are interested in. If you have no interest in the job then why apply?

3. What is the trade-off? What are you willing to sacrifice to work in that field (slow advancement, background checks, benefit packages, travel, and work location)?

4. Research the career field and the organization you are thinking of applying to- Who are they? What do they do? What are their benefit packages? What sort of advancement can you expect? Big one: Do you want to invest 10, 20 or 30 years in that field?

5. Always look for opportunities to enhance your education and skills. This will give you better career mobility within and external to your career field. If will be easier to switch careers if you have a broad package of education, skills and experience.

6. Know your limitations.

7. Having a foreign language BEFORE you apply for a job potentially saves that agency/company/organization money and may make you a more attractive hire. If you can’t, be alert for opportunities for company/agency/organizationally sponsored programs. If this isn’t possible, explore other options (company/agency sponsored training, self-financed course(s)).

8. Be prepared to take jobs you find less attractive and less satisfying in order to gain entry to the positions you do want.

Your first task after graduation is to get established in the field, even at entry-level. Once you have this stability, you can move on to address other issues.

As with any decision in your life, consider it carefully, weighing the pros and cons. Do not let yourself get rushed into decisions that will impact your life without careful deliberation.

Where you end up depends on choices you make.


GRADUATE STUDIES OPTIONS
Programs which build on your Government and Politics Undergraduate Degree include (these subjects were taken from actual programs offered in the U.S.):

Topical Programs
Conflict Resolution
Diplomacy
Foreign Service
Government
Intelligence Studies
Strategic Intelligence
International Business
International Development Policy
International Policy Studies
International Politics
International Relations
International Studies
International Trade Management
National Security Studies
Public Administration
Public Affairs
Public Policy
Policy Management
Security Policy
Security Studies
Statecraft and National Security Affairs

This short list of topical areas covers those interested in international careers, Non-governmental organization careers, U.S. National Security,
Government (Federal, State, Local), Business and industry and so on.

A less expensive option is to look for post-graduate “Certificate” programs in the above. You can use these to build on if you choose to pursue a Masters Degree later.

Area Studies programs are broken down into two types- Country and Regional. An example of the former would be a program in China Studies. With this, naturally, you should consider including a Chinese language course. Regional Studies would include East European Studies or Southeast Asian Studies for example. There are many of these programs available, look for ones that provide solid background in a country’s or region’s culture, history, politics etc. Avoid those which are nothing more than a pulpit for current
political issues.

Other Skill Enhancements
• Certificate programs in information science, information technology, computer science, gaining certification in one of these areas (example NOVELL certification in computer systems administration).
• Practical experience in a skill area of use in your career field of interest through volunteerism, internships and
Fellowships

DON’Ts
• Avoid coursework in narrow niche subjects of no practical use in the real world. They may be interesting to you but will have no value in applying for a job unless that job has a direct link to that niche course. 18th Century French Literature will not be of much use to someone
pursuing a business or humanitarian career in Asia for Africa.
• Do not pad your resume. It can be rejected if detected.
• Don’t make unreasonable demands or expectations during the hiring process. That is a turn-off to interviewers.
• Avoid inappropriate dress. Some agencies/companies have cultures which unofficially dictate a certain dress code. Its not a requirement but it is expected. It could damage advancement potential. Understanding the corporate culture is key identifying the work norm in an office in terms of dress and language. Some companies/agencies are fairly laid back; others may be rather stiff and formal.
• In an interview, do not appear hesitant, display lack of confidence in yourself or apologetic or show disinterest in the work as a career. Answer questions clearly and accurately.

A CAREER IN INTELLIGENCE

If you are interested in a career in Intelligence, craft your educational goals accordingly and ask yourself some important questions:

• Are you willing to undergo an extensive background check?
• Are you willing to subject yourself to periodic re-investigations and polygraph examinations?

If not, consider another career field. These are the price for a clearance, for access, for the job.

• Can I be impartial?

If not, do consider another field. Intelligence must be based on facts, not colored by political naiveté, ideology or personal feelings.

EDUCATION

Consider an Area Studies minor and learn a foreign language (preferably one in which linguists are in short supply). Apply for an internship at a Government agency or with a non-profit think tank that examines intelligence issues. The latter will provide some practical experience for your resume.

THE MILITARY ANGLE

If you are planning to join the military (Active, Reserve, National Guard), consider the Intelligence field. When your enlistment is up, you will have added specialized training and practical experience to your resume, not to mention a security clearance. All of this is marketable when seeking employment across most elements of the Government as well as private industry. And the education benefits can help you pursue graduate studies.

WHAT CAN THIS DO IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR?

Any company which has a need for personnel having a security clearance will view you more favorably if you have one and it is still active. Such a candidate would save that company thousands of dollars in clearance costs. These companies range from manufacturers (Boeing, Rockwell etc) to “think tanks” producing studies and assessments, training and contract staffing.

Ike likes CPS

A while back I got an email from an alum wondering if any standing presidents had been on the Puget Sound campus in previous years. JFK was at Cheney Field in 1963 as part of a joint convocation of UPS and PLU, but I don't believe he came to our school. One well known presidential visit, however, was Eisenhower, who spoke at CPS (as we were back then) in 1958. Here's an excerpt from his speech:

In expressing my appreciation to the College of Puget Sound for their great courtesy in allowing us to use this hall, I want to tell you that last evening I spent a great deal of time with two of your alumni, and I learned about your undefeated football team. So I guess it's in order for me to extend felicitations.
...To act wisely and effectively, at this most important time in the history of American education, our people must be alerted, even aroused, to the problems before us. I sometimes wonder whether we really realize how extraordinarily complicated our lives have become-even within the life that has been lived by the youngest of those here present-with radar, the jet airplane, with every kind of terrible bomb that the world can build. We have come to a time when this understanding must be pushed faster. Man's scientific genius seems to have out-raced his own intelligence and judgment in handling the products of his own inven­tiveness. This is a gap which we must overcome.

Read the whole thing here.

Tuesday, February 19, 2008

International Forum for Democratic Studies Internship, DC

NOTE: We have a contact at NED. This is a great internship opportunity. Talk to Professor Weinberger if you are interested.

International Forum for Democratic Studies - Internship - Washington, DC, USA

Description:
The International Forum for Democratic Studies, the research arm of the National Endowment for Democracy, is a leading center for analysis of the theory and practice of democratic development worldwide. It is also a clearinghouse for information on the varied activities and experiences of groups and institutions working to achieve and maintain democracy around the world.

The International Forum is seeking advanced undergraduate or graduate students for the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Forum internships, which are unpaid, provide students an excellent opportunity to improve their knowledge of democratization and international affairs and to develop and improve their research, writing, and computer skills.

Interns work with Forum staff to monitor important developments in the democratizing world and help plan and administer a busy research and conferences program.

Responsibilities:

. writing and editing features for the quarterly electronic newsletter of the Comparative Democratization section of the American Political Science Association

. conducting research and preparing brief reports and bibliographic essays on such issues as civil society and democracy, political finance and elections, political party reform, Islam and democracy, the democratic response to terrorism, social policy, and other topics, as needed

. helping develop the Network of Democracy Research Institutes through Internet research and writing

. writing and editing features for the research network's electronic newsletter and Web site

. assisting with administrative planning of Forum meetings and conferences

. other related tasks, as needed

Qualifications:

Although there is no required academic major, most Forum interns have majored in political science, international relations, or contemporary history. Applicants should have a strong interest in international affairs, U.S. foreign policy, and democracy as well as excellent research, writing, and computer skills. Students with foreign-language skills are particularly encouraged to apply.

To Apply for a Forum Internship:

Please send a cover letter, resume, two references, and brief writing sample to the contact below.

Intern Coordinator
International Forum for Democratic Studies
National Endowment for Democracy
1025 F Street, NW, Suite 800
Washington, DC 20004
forum@ned.org

Deadline for Spring 2008: November 15
Deadline for Summer 2008: March 15
Deadline for Fall 2008: July 15

Chicago and Twin Cities alums: Professor Sousa Talk

Our own Professor Sousa will be doing the alum tour in Chicago and the Twin Cities:

“We Can Rearrange the World”: Democracy and Presidential Nominations from Chicago ‘68 to the Choices of ‘08

Wednesday, April 2, 2008
St. Paul Hotel
James J. Hill Room
350 Market Street, St. Paul, MN

Thursday, April 3, 2008
Trump International Hotel & Tower
Skyline Room, 16th Floor
401 North Wabash Avenue, Chicago, IL

Professor Sousa notes that "the quote in the title is taken from a Crosby Stills Nash and Young song, Chicago, which was essentially a call to young people to travel to Chicago at the time of the convention to 'rearrange the world.' Things certainly did get rearranged."

Illinois State Student Conference

CALL FOR PAPERS:

The Sixteenth Annual

ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY CONFERENCE FOR STUDENTS OF POLITICAL SCIENCE

Conference website (and paper submission page):
http://www.politicsandgovernment.ilstu.edu/current/conferences/

Bone Student Center
Normal, Illinois
April 4, 2008

Draft paper deadline: February 17, 2008
Final Papers due: March 17, 2008

All undergraduate and graduate students are invited to submit papers for the sixteenth annual
Illinois Conference for Students of Political Science. We welcome papers on any topic related to
government and/or politics. All subfields and political perspectives are welcome.

Panelists at the previous conferences included 750 students attending
100 colleges and universities.

If you are interested in participating in this exciting event, please complete the online proposal
submission form or submit a cover letter, containing your contact information (including email address), your school, and the name of the faculty member with whom you are working, and a draft copy of your paper (or the actual paper) by February 17, 2008 to:

Dr. Gary Klass and Dr. George Kiser
4600 Department of Politics and Government
Illinois State University
Normal, IL 61790-4600.

Conference website (and submission page):
http://www.politicsandgovernment.ilstu.edu/current/conferences/

If you would like to serve as a discussant on a panel, please send a letter stating your interest and main areas of scholarly knowledge. E-mail submissions are welcome. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to email: gmklass@Iilstu.edu or call us at (309) 438-8638.

Monday, February 18, 2008

Old Heidelberg

From Exit 133 ('96 PG alum Derek Young), news that the remnant letters on the old Heidelberg brewery downtown have been removed in advance of the building's demolition. Tacomans remember well this brewery from its heyday (1900-1979), and older alums likely drank a Heidelberg or two, perhaps from their keg-shaped stubby bottles? Another piece of Tacoma history fades away.

Friday, February 15, 2008

Feb 19 Talk: Negotiating Muslim Hierarchy in Indonesia

Click on the image for a larger version

2008 feb_hadler

Fuel in the family

This came to me by way of Professor Sherman, since it's his father-in-law, Jeffrey Martin, who is one of the main scientists behind this project at Los Alamos. From the New York Times:

Scientists there say they have developed a way to produce truly carbon-neutral fuel and useful organic chemicals at large scale using water and carbon dioxide removed from the air as raw materials....One selling point with Los Alamos’s “Green Freedom” concept, and similar ones, is that reusing the carbon atoms in the captured CO2 molecules as a fuel ingredient avoids the need to find huge repositories for the greenhouse gas. The lab’s researchers, led by F. Jeffrey Martin, say their system could process vast volumes of air using existing giant structures like the cooling towers at nuclear power plants. No need to chop down rain forests or compete with food crops to grow carbon-grabbing fuel crops like corn or switchgrass.

Read the whole thing here. There's a second department connection; this work is being closely studied by the Air Force with the participation of Assistant Secretary Kevin Billings '77. Small world.

Thursday, February 14, 2008

Rotary Peace and Conflict Studies Program

Directed toward young grads who are out in the workforce:

The Rotary Peace and Conflict Studies Program was established to provide professionals from around the world with the opportunity to be trained in conflict resolution and mediation strategies. The program also can help participants become better equipped to prevent and resolve conflict and to foster policies and create settings that ensure peace worldwide. Offered in English, the program is aimed toward mid- to upper-level professionals in governments, nongovernmental organizations, and private corporations.

The intensive three-month course, which was started in July 2006, is housed at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, Thailand. Rotary will accept up to 30 program participants per session for two sessions annually. Each session will include both academic learning and practical fieldwork components. The program aims to

  • Inspire people to work for a culture of peace and tolerance while enhancing their capacity, knowledge, and skills in this area, in part by generating interaction between practitioners and academics
  • Offer advanced international educational opportunities to Rotary Peace and Conflict Studies Program participants chosen from different countries and cultures on the basis of their potential as government, business, education, media, and other professional leaders
  • Provide a means for The Rotary Foundation and Rotarians to increase their effectiveness in promoting greater tolerance and cooperation among peoples, thereby leading to world understanding and peace.
Learn more about program eligibility and deadlines.

To find out more about the Rotary Peace and Conflict Studies Program, contact your local Rotary club or the Rotary Centers Department at The Rotary Foundation.

Campaign Corps

Deadline April 14:

Campaign Corps is a national grassroots program dedicated to politically empowering young people. Each year, we train talented recent graduates and place them on targeted, progressive Democratic campaigns. Participants receive a stipend and free housing during the campaign, with all travel expenses paid. For more information, click here.

Wednesday, February 13, 2008

Students Caucus

It's easy to think of young people as disengaged politically. Whatever your political persuasion it would make you proud to see so many UPS students actively following and participating in the presidential campaigns. A few camera phone shots from Josh Cole '09 from the local democratic primary, which as you'll see was chock-a-block with UPS students, including PG majors. Here are a few I liked in particular:

Caucus14Caucus4Caucus6

I like the t-shirt: Loggers Kick Axe!

Progressive Policy Institute Internships, Washington DC

Progressive Policy Institute Internships Washington, D.C.
Location: Washington, D.C.

Defense and Foreign Policy Internships
PPI advocates a new progressive internationalism: a U.S. leadership role, in conjunction with allies and mult ilateral organization, aimed at promoting political and economic freedom, resolving dangerous regional conflicts, and dealing with new threats to peace and security like terrorism, cyber-warfare, and chemical and biological warfare.

Economic Policy Internships
PPI advocates fiscal discipline, a progressive tax system free of special-interest subsidies, and government budgets that emphasize investments in the country's long-term well-being.

Education Policy Internships
The 21st Century Schools Project develops public policies to modernize American schools and ensure that all students are prepared for success in the knowledge economy.

Energy and Environmental Policy Internships
PPI advocates using performance-based, market-oriented, and civic-minded strategies to drive continuous and efficient improvement in environmental quality.

Health Care Policy Internships
PPI wants to create an Information Age health care system in which every American has the resources to purchase private health insurance in a marketplace where health plans and providers compete on the basis of both quality and cost.

Social Policy Internships
PPI believes in strengthening communities by engaging local, private institutions in government service delivery, and by devolving decision-making powers to local communities in exchange for accountability for nationally-defined results.

Technology & New Economy Policy Internships
PPI supports efforts to spread productivity-enhancing technologies to every industry, community and family, while equipping every American with the knowledge, skills and other resources! needed to succeed in the New Economy.

Trade Policy Internships
PPI believes we must shape globalization to reflect our interests and values, through a combination of open trade, international rules, and efforts to provide Americans with the tools they need to compete and succeed.

For more information, please visit the following site:
http://www.ppionline.org/ppi_sub.cfm?knlgAreaID=87&subsecid=64

Tuesday, February 12, 2008

A Yank in Canada: Jon Roberts attends the Thompson Rivers Conference

Early this year Thompson Rivers University in BC held an undergraduate student conference, and I encouraged our majors to apply to present. Jon Roberts '10 took me up on it, and went up to give his paper on "The Third Place Question in New Urbanism". Here's Jon's recap of the event:

The TRU Conference was an excellent experience, both for the academic in me and for the American me. I was the sole Yank in the room (save some ex-pats now teaching there) so it was great as a Politics and Government major being grilled by non-Americans! On top of that, the conference was well-organized and small enough that it afforded a good deal of feedback from panel moderators and ample opportunity to chat with professors there. And while the grad school talks and other policy conversations were Canadian-specific, it was definitely illuminating. All in all, a great experience that I would highly recommend to students for future involvement.

I liked hearing that the TRU folks seized on Jon's presence to tout their conference as "international," since he was the only non-Canadian presenter. He also was apparently treated to a number of free drinks as well. Oh Canada!

So students, you should think about going next year. Conferences can be fun and a nice tidbit to put on the resume.

Monday, February 11, 2008

Career Fair Feb 19-20

The Spring Career Fair http://www.ups.edu/x12576.xml is scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, February 19 and 20, from 4 to 7 pm in WSC Marshall Hall.

Students can make face-to-face contacts with employers and inquire about internships or jobs, practice networking skills, or simply browse and explore career options. Almost one quarter of the employer representatives are Puget Sound alumni!

Please urge students to attend.

Thank you,
Kris Hay
Communications Coordinator
Career and Employment Services

Our students hang with Obama, too

While a number of our students went to see Senator Clinton here on campus, others headed up to Seattle for a dueling rally by Obama.

Obama Rally
Professor Williams gave a few a ride up.

bb.obama.seattle.cnn
And a few were able to get onto the stage just behind Obama; I grabbed this screenshot from CNN, and pointed to Cat Fish and Alex Raposo '08, both of whom have worked for Congressman Adam Smith, who is heading up Obama's campaign here in Washington. You can see them and the full video on CNN here.

Clinton, Phibbs, Edmonson--a confluence of presidentialism

Tacoma News Tribune

I had a hard time figuring out a title for this post--

When Hillary Clinton was on campus last week she gave a shout-out in her speech not simply to UPS, but also to former President Phibbs, who you may not know was once her political science professor at Wellesley. You can see the video here.

And in the Oregonian there's a nice quote from PG major and outgoing student body President Hart Edmonson '08:

UPS student body President Hart Edmonds, on the other hand, slapped a Clinton sticker on his jacket and declared his support. He said he once met Clinton and her husband, former President Bill Clinton, after winning an eighth-grade essay contest.

"Obama speaks beautifully, and there's nothing wrong with that," Edmonds said. "But Hillary can govern beautifully."

Friday, February 08, 2008

Presidential Wisdom

We've talked a lot in various posts about the role of polls and markets in predicting outcomes. Why don't we see if PG students and alums are up to the task. Let's see how good we are, collectively, of predicting the outcome of the 2008 election. Vote below--and remember, the question is not who you want to win, but who you think will win. I'll take votes for a week or so then let you know what the department thinks. And then we'll find out who turns out to be correct...!


Who Will Win the 2008 Presidential Election?
Hillary Clinton John McCain Barack Obama

Teach for America deadline February 15!

What to do after graduation?

I am writing because we are in our final push to recruit the strongest, most diverse corps in Teach For America’s history. We know that because the strength of UPS students, many of our 2008 corps members will come from your school. Our final application deadline is on February 15th and we want to make sure we have given everyone the opportunity to hear about the program, talk to an alum, and submit a non-binding application if they so choose.

Thank you again and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best,

Kelsey Burkhardt
Senior Recruitment Associate
Teach For America
www.teachforamerica.org

Let's see those Clinton pics!

So...? I see lots of folks at the Fieldhouse for the Clinton rally from out my window, and many many police officers. If you went and snapped a few pictures, won't you send them my way so that I can blog them? Let the world know that you were, for a fleeting moment, swept up in the political whirlpool that is presidential politics.

UPDATE: After the event Senator Clinton dropped by the office and put in a plug for our department T-shirts (just kidding--I was having a bit of fun with Photoshop):

hilary_clinton_tshirt

Job Opportunity in Tacoma: Soclal Compact

This could be a nice job and also a way to get some research experience on your resume:


My name is Carolina Valencia and I am the Associate Director of Research at Social Compact.

Social Compact is a not for profit organization that promotes economic development in low income neighborhoods by providing data that highlights economic opportunity. Feel free to visit our modest website at www.socialcompact.org

We were recently hired to conduct an analysis about grocery, convenience and corner stores in Washington State.

I have been successful at finding research assistants in most cities where we need help. However, I have not found anyone that can help with our research in Tacoma.

Ideally we are looking for 1 or more persons that can dedicate a total of approximately 100 hrs in a 2 month period. The hrs are flexible. I was wondering if you could help me by

1. posting the add below to see if any interested people contact us
2. sharing the information about this research opportunity with local groups to see if any interested parties contact us
3. tell me where is a good place where I can post this job opportunity

I appreciate your help very much.

THE AD

Social Compact, a not for profit organization promoting investments in inner-city neighborhoods, will conduct an analysis on residents\' access to grocery providers across Washington State. With this purpose in mind, we are looking for honest, trustworthy, enthusiastic people to make great money while gathering information from local grocery stores. Must have own transportation. If you are interested please contact Carolina Valencia, Associate Director of Research at cvalencia@socialcompact.org NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE! There is no minimum number of hours required and students can work according to their own schedule. It is a wonderful opportunity to earn some extra cash. Salary: $10/hr.

Thursday, February 07, 2008

Or Barack Obama in Seattle!

This in from Cat Fish '08; she's got your transport covered--

Join Barack Obama for a special Stand for Change Rally in Seattle, Washington on Friday, February 8th. The event will be free and open to the public.

Stand for Change Rally with Barack Obama

Key Arena
305 Harrison Street
Seattle, WA 98109
Friday, February 8, 2008
Doors Open: 11:00 a.m.
The event is free and open to the public, but an RSVP is encouraged.
For security reasons, do not bring bags. No signs or banners permitted.

Volunteers are needed and should be there at 8:30am. Contact me at cat.m.fish@gmail.com if you need a ride or have any questions.

Hillary Clinton on campus--tomorrow!

Via the News Tribune:

It's going to be a rally and a town hall meeting with a health care theme, and she will be taking questions, so invite any health care professionals you know. But most importantly, invite EVERYONE you know - every single person you can. The details of this event were finalized late, so we have to make sure everyone knows about this who might want to come!

The event is at University of Puget Sound at 10 a.m., but they suggest you get there early to make sure you can get in.

You going to go? Maybe I'll see you there? If you are an alum and are coming onto campus for the event, come by--I'm in Wyatt 222.

How not to get a job

I got an email from an alum the other day, who passed the following along. A job application had come in from a recent UPS graduate, and come in with problems:

The application was automatically put in the 'maybe/back-ups' folder because it was simply not clear - we couldn't find the person's overall GPA, nowhere did it just explicitly state whether the person had earned a BA and finished school, and the cv listed research, but not clearly what the context of that research was: A class paper? A conference? Paid research? The application did not get further consideration.

So, a few thoughts that may be worth passing along -
  • The shorter, the better. Don't necessarily list everything, just highlight a few/the best.
  • Be clear and use the visual layout to your advantage (in terms of placing GPA, BA, year, etc)
  • Have people peer-edit it... but be careful, because another applicant actually sent in her cover letter with track changes. oops.
Words of wisdom. I got an email myself yesterday from a student (not from this campus) that was riddled with misspelled words and random capitalization. It doesn't give one much confidence about that student's diligence.

The past is black tie

This picture was in the News Tribune this morning:


The caption: "On February 7, 1953, the men of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity at the College of Puget Sound posed in their tuxedoes with white boutonnieres at their annual "Black and White" formal. They stood on the winding staircase beneath the thirty-three foot totem pole at Gaffney's Lake Wilderness ballroom, located in Maple Valley. The woman in the middle of the group was Mrs. Mary Sloat, fraternity housemother. She was there to present the Richard Sloat Memorial award, honoring the fraternity's man of the year."

Wednesday, February 06, 2008

Those 70s Alums

Recently I had some emails out of the blue from two alums who caught me up on their lives since Puget Sound:

Barb Hunter '77 went into the Air Force, work that took her into Desert Storm (the first Gulf War) to the breakup of Yugoslavia, a NATO unit in Turkey, and three years in the UK. Barb is now a contractor in the Air force, managing the military scientist and engineer workforce, "surrounded by these uber-smart kids who are dealing with some awesome future technologies that will continue to change the way we do things...I had no idea the open doors I went through would take me here, but here I am."

Mark Scott '74 also joined the armed forces (army) after graduating, attending the Defense Language School in Monterey. Eventually his work for army intelligence took him into the National Security Agency and to an advanced degree in Strategic Intelligence. Mark wrote that while at the NSA he essentially had a front-row seat at the unraveling of the Soviet Union and Eastern bloc.

Like Barb, Mark emphasized how unpredictable his career path turned out to be. You never really know where that next step will lead you--something good for our students to remember. Uncertainty has its benefits.

Thanks to Barb and Mark for sharing their stories with us. Any other 70s alums who want to chime in?

Tuesday, February 05, 2008

Cool things at the History Museum

No student should get a degree without going at least once to the Washington State History Museum downtown. And on February 18 I--and maybe you--get to go for free:

On February 22, the History Museum will host a lecture and gallery talk on the exhibit, Faces of Leadership: Presidential Portraiture. During the 45-minute presentation, curator Fred Poyner will talk about the presidential works of art on display and the artists who created them, including Seattle’s “first sculptor” James Wehn. A guided gallery tour of the exhibition will follow. Registration is not required. The program starts at 11:30 AM and is included with paid admission.

Faces of Leadership features more than 30 artworks and images from the permanent collection of the Washington State Historical Society, including sculpture busts, coins and medallions, and snapshots of presidents on the move. These creative works surpass mere physical representations, providing historical continuity and a visible legacy for our nation. The exhibit will run through October 2008.

The History Museum is also running a free admission promotion for Presidents’ Day. On February 18, in recognition of our country’s chief executives and their wives, the History Museum is offering free admission to anyone who shares a name with any of our presidents or first ladies. Only first and last names will be considered (no middle names), and identification is required. The museum will be open from 10 AM to 5 PM that day.

What, you don't remember President O'Neil?

Linz Heppe '07 in Rwanda

I received an email from Linz Heppe '07, who recently returned from a trip to Rwanda through the organization Global Youth Connect. A few pictures and an excerpt from her letter:

DSCN0559
Rusomo Falls

DSCN0542
Nyarabuye Memorial--site of one of the massacres during the Rwandan genocide

DSCN0490
Linz and her host family

.
..Why was I there? I had been picked from a pool of about eighty applicants to participate in a human rights workshop and work abroad program through Global Youth Connect (http://www.globalyouthconnect.org/), a U.S. based human rights organization. Our mission was to explore a common definition of human rights, identify important human rights problems and achievements in Rwanda, consider solutions to these problems through the analysis of certain grassroots and international organizations within Rwanda (which we interviewed and worked alongside), identify and develop skills to raise awareness and take action, and to start taking action. One person in particular displayed quite a bit of skepticism when I told him of my journey, and doubted what I (and GYC) could actually accomplish while abroad. I am writing this not only to inform those who are interested, but also to lend credence to the fact that we accomplished MANY goals, and have continued our work within the United States...

Read the whole thing on her blog, here.

Friday, February 01, 2008

Cain Scholarship

Deadline is early March.

Harry Cain Scholarship
This scholarship was established to support students who plan to enter the field of public administration or public service. Applicants should have a deep commitment to service to the community and proficiency in public speaking.

For details:
http://www.ups.edu/x10279.xml#cain

Bottom of the World, Ma

Fred Ross '87 has made his way, by car, from Portland to Ushuaia, Argentina. Catch up on his adventures here.

Summer Institute on Peacebuilding & Conflict Resolution

Alliance for Conflict Transformation
Summer Institute on Peacebuilding & Conflict Resolution (IPCR)
June 14 - July 12, 2008
Santa Cruz and La Paz, Bolivia

The Alliance for Conflict Transformation (ACT), in partnership with Nur
University, is pleased to announce the Summer Institute on Peacebuilding &
Conflict Resolution (IPCR). IPCR is an intensive 4-week, 6-credit
residential program intended to build the capacity of current and future
professionals in a variety of fields to make a critical difference in
furthering peaceful relations in the world. IPCR will be held in Santa Cruz,
Bolivia, with one week travel to La Paz and surrounding communities.

We are currently accepting applications for participation from English
speaking professionals, graduate and upper-level undergraduate students in
peace and conflict resolution, international affairs, political science,
Latin American studies, anthropology, development and related fields.

AT IPCR, students enjoy a supportive learning environment where experienced
trainers and faculty combine brief lectures, case studies, field trips,
role-plays, and simulations, with the experiences of local and international
peacebuilding practitioners.

IPCR offers a stimulating integration of theory and practice, bringing
together innovative academic analysis with practical, hands-on training and
skills development. Participants will learn about these topics and more:
* Conflict analysis & assessment
* Conflict resolution and peacebuilding practices
* Cross-sectoral approaches to peacebuilding and conflict resolution (i.e.,
with development, human rights, etc)
* Post-conflict reconstruction and reconciliation
* Skills development in negotiation
* Case studies - community, intra-state and international conflict
* Career opportunities in peacebuilding and conflict resolution

“In addition to gaining a basic understanding of conflict analysis and a set
of practical skills applicable to a variety of fields, I truly benefited
from having access to real-world practitioners and the exposure to an
insider’s view of regional conflicts. IPCR is practical, hands-on, and
highly recommended for anyone interested in pursuing a professional career
in conflict resolution, peacebuilding, or related fields.” Michael Pankow,
employed at Human Rights Watch

APPLICATION DEADLINE:
* Early-bird Deadline to receive $250 discount – March 15, 2008
* Final Deadline – April 16, 2008

To see the complete program description, visit the ACT website:
http://conflicttransformation.org

For more information contact:
Nike Carstarphen, Ph.D.
Co-Founder/Senior Partner
Alliance for Conflict Transformation
PO Box 9117, Alexandria, VA 22304
Phone: (703) 461-3650
Email: ipcr@conflicttransformation.org

Summer Student Institutes at Georgetown

INSTITUTE ON BUSINESS & GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS
INSTITUTE ON COMPARATIVE POLITICAL & ECONOMIC SYSTEMS

This summer: June 7 - August 2, 2008
Georgetown University, Washington, DC
www.dcinternships.org

**ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR FINAL DEADLINE OF FEBRUARY 25, 2008**

Sponsored by The Fund for American Studies in partnership with Georgetown University, the Institute on Business Government Affairs and the Institute on Comparative Political and Economic Systems combine substantive internships, courses for academic credit, career development activities, site briefings and panels featuring government officials and public policy experts. The Institutes offer undergraduate students a unique opportunity to experience first-hand the inner workings of the Washington political scene!

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the Final Deadline of February 25, 2008. There is still a substantial amounts of scholarship funding available.

Institute on Business & Government Affairs (IBGA)

* Internships - Competitive placements with corporate government affairs offices, trade associations and lobbying firms
* Classes - Up to 9 credits in political science and business from Georgetown University
* Guest Lectures - With lobbyists, former Congressmen and public policy experts

Institute on Comparative Political and Economic Systems (ICPES)

* Internships - Competitive placements with public policy groups, federal agencies, Congressional offices and international organizations
* Classes - Up to 9 credits in political science and economics from Georgetown University
* Guest Lectures - With foreign policy and economics experts

Both Institutes Provide:

* Housing - Furnished, on-campus apartments in the heart of D.C.
* Site Briefings - At the White House Complex, U.S. House of Representatives and State Department
* Leadership & Professional Development - Leadership, mentoring and career building activities
* Networking - Interaction with hundreds of other student leaders from around the world
* Scholarships - Over half of all students receive full or partial funding based on merit and financial need

For more information and an online application, please visit our website www.dcinternships.org or contact Andrea Calderon, Recruitment and Admissions Assistant, at admissions@tfas.org or at 1-800-741-6964.

Fund For American Studies
1706 New Hampshire Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20009

Student Globalization and Human Rights Conference

Hello!

As Co-Chairs of the Northwestern University Conference on Human Rights (NUCHR), we are excited to announce our 5th annual conference, entitled "Globalization and the Universality of Human Rights." The conference will examine issues such as the homogeny and hegemony of human rights, focusing on issues involving cultural and religious issues, multi-national corporations, international justice, and health. We would like to encourage your students to apply to attend the conference as student delegates. We would greatly appreciate it if you would forward the following announcement. Please let us know if you have any questions.

All the best,

Elizabeth Nielsen and Gauthami Soma
Co-Chairs
Northwestern University Conference on Human Rights

"Globalization and the Universality of Human Rights"

April 10-13, 2008
Northwestern University, Evanston, IL

The fifth annual Northwestern University Conference on Human Rights (NUCHR) is proud to announce a national student conference on "Globalization and the Universality of Human Rights," which will take place on Northwestern's Evanston campus on April 10-13, 2006. The Conference will examine the impact of globalizing forces on the tension between cultural relativism and the universality of human rights in four key areas: cultural and religious tensions, multinational corporations, international justice, and health. NUCHR will provide the funding to bring talented undergraduate student leaders and activists from colleges across the country to attend a three-day summit. Students will interact with distinguished speakers and panelists, comprised of top academics, activists, and policy-makers in the field.

As the largest student-organized and student-attended human rights conference in the United States, the conference is dedicated to fostering social activism and raising awareness of international human rights issues by uniting student leaders from across the country with renowned activists, academics, and policy makers over a three day summit. In the past, the conference has focused on issues such as American interventionist policy, American policy towards HIV and AIDS in the developing world, human trafficking, and torture. We have featured distinguished speakers such as Romeo Dallaire, Richard Holbrooke, Bernard Kouschner, Stephen Lewis, John Miller, and Cherif Bassiouni.

To apply to attend the Conference as a student delegate (including funding for travel and housing expenses) and for more information on NUCHR, please visit our website: http://www.cics.northwestern.edu/NUCHRweb/index.html Applications are due on February 25, 2008.

If you have any additional questions please feel free to contact the co-chairs of this year's conference, Elizabeth Nielsen and Gauthami Soma, via e-mail conferenceonhumanrights@u.northwestern.edu or phone 612.695.7944.