Maine Women’s Leadership Institute Accepting Applications Until March 21st

By Lura Jackson

Each year, the University of Maine hosts a six-day seminar for female undergraduate college students under the capable guidance of the Margaret Chase Smith Policy Center. The seminar focuses on inspiring attendees to take action and lead in their own lives as responsible and empowered citizens of their communities. 

The no-cost seminar consists of several workshops spread out over the course of six days (May 30th-June 4th), each hosted by different facilitators. Lodging is provided on campus at the University of Maine, and participants are thoroughly nourished throughout the duration by local eateries and on-campus catering.

The speakers include nationally recognized figures (author Martha Burk was the keynote speaker during the 2013 program) and influential women from around the state. The facilitators are former legislators and activists that effectively convey the urgency of the need for female leaders (such as Maine Women’s Hall of Fame Inductee and three term legislator, Mary Cathcart) while encouraging attendees to see the strength their womanhood gives them.

As part of the seminar, attendees will be taken to the State House in Augusta while Congress is in session, and given a tour of the working political capital of the state. In addition, a tour of the Margaret Chase Smith Library in Skowhegan will be given, enabling attendees to view the former home of the 32-year Congresswoman from Maine who made national headlines by denouncing the methods of Joseph McCarthy with her “Declaration of Conscience”.

To be eligible to attend, the undergraduate must be either from Maine or attending college in Maine. Credit may be given for completion of the program (see details on website). Applications must be hand-delivered or postmarked by March 21st. For more information or to download an application, visit: http://mcspolicycenter.umaine.edu/for-students/maine-new-leadership.