Congress to Campus

Congress to Campus brings together former Members of Congress and today’s youth to increase civic literacy and participation. A bipartisan pair of former Members are sent to college, university and community college campuses for two day visits. During the visit, former 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 setting allows students to discover, on a more personal basis, what participation in a democracy entails.

The aim of Congress to Campus is to engage students and provide inspiration that will lead to greater democratic participation; whether it is in the arena of public service or something as simple as voting.

Former Members give students and faculty an authentic and candid “insiders’” look at the workings of American government and politics. Their personal experiences help to illuminate the democratic process and the inner workings of Washington.

Former Members are invited by host schools interested in providing this valuable opportunity for their students. The hosting educational University retains a great deal of control in planning the events and schedule under the advisement of the U. S. Association of Former Members of Congress. While a small prorated donation is requested, it is dedicated to offsetting the administrative costs of running such a program. Members themselves receive no honorarium.

Congress to Campus is run by FMC in partnership with the Stennis Center for Public Service.