Students simulate a Senate Committee hearing to discuss voting reform topics and gain valuable experience in public policy leadership.
In an effort to promote active civic engagement and equip students with the necessary skills to navigate the complex world of public policy, more than 80 University of Mississippi freshmen public policy leadership majors recently participated in a mock congressional hearing on campus. The event, dubbed the “Battle of the Gavel,” simulated a hearing of the United States Senate Committee on Rules and Administration, focusing on voting reform. Students engaged in passionate discussions surrounding topics such as mail-in ballots, gerrymandering, the Electoral College, and representation. This annual exercise, meticulously structured to mirror real-life proceedings on Capitol Hill, has become the “signature experience” for public policy leadership freshmen at Ole Miss.
A Platform for Knowledge and Leadership Development
Under the guidance of Jody Holland, associate professor of public policy leadership, the students spent weeks preparing for the mock congressional hearing. The exercise aimed to increase the students’ policy knowledge, enhance their leadership skills, and provide them with the opportunity to connect and network. Divided into roles such as senators, expert witnesses, legislative aids, chiefs of staff, and a communications team, the students were immersed in the world of congressional members and policy experts. Through this hands-on experience, they gained a deeper appreciation for the democratic process and the multifaceted nature of policymaking.
A Realistic Simulation of Capitol Hill Proceedings
The mock congressional hearing was designed to closely resemble real-life proceedings on Capitol Hill. The hearing began with a call to order and opening statements from the committee chair and other legislators. Policy experts then provided witness statements, laying the foundation for a round of questioning from the legislators. The hearing concluded with closing statements from each legislator and the chair. The students were evaluated on their performance by upperclassmen in the public policy leadership program, who acted as judges.
Gaining Confidence and Insight into Future Careers
For many students, the mock congressional hearing provided valuable insights into potential careers in policy. John Pickering, who played the secretary of state for Minnesota, praised the event for its ability to raise awareness about how the government operates. He also acknowledged the benefits of public speaking and the confidence it instills in individuals, regardless of their future career paths. Ella Grace Young, who portrayed Arizona’s secretary of state, expressed her newfound understanding of working on Capitol Hill and the various job opportunities available in public policy.
Promoting Informed and Responsible Citizenship
The mock congressional hearing not only prepared students for active civic engagement but also promoted informed, responsible, and participatory citizenship in a democracy. By immersing themselves in the roles of congressional members and policy experts, the students gained firsthand experience in the complexities of policymaking. This exercise equipped them with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the intricate world of public policy and empowered them to become informed and responsible citizens.
Conclusion:
The University of Mississippi’s mock congressional hearing on voting reform provided freshmen public policy leadership majors with a unique and valuable learning experience. Through passionate discussions and role-playing, these students gained a deeper understanding of the democratic process and the complexities of policymaking. The event not only enhanced their policy knowledge and leadership skills but also instilled in them a sense of civic responsibility and the confidence to pursue careers in public policy. As the winners of the “Battle of the Gavel” are eagerly awaited, it is clear that the mock congressional hearing has left a lasting impact on the students, equipping them with the tools they need to make a difference in the world of public policy.
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