The Power of Advocacy

Last week students and advisers from all across the country came to Washington, D.C., to participate in USA Leadership Training and Adviser Academy. Held simultaneously, these conferences build on earlier phases of state officer and new adviser training. Advisers attended sessions on legislative training and advocacy methods, fundraising and grant writing, and building leadership in student members. The group spent a day on Capitol Hill visiting their Congressional representatives to talk about the importance of Career and Technical Education (CTE) and Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs). Several groups met with staff while others had the opportunity to meet directly with their Congressperson or Senator. The Ohio group of students and advisers had a very productive session with Minority Leader Congressman John Boehner (R-OH). Con. Boehner weekly newsletter highlights his visit with the visitors. Congratulations, Ohio, on the great meeting and follow up!

MEETING WITH THE LEADERS OF TOMORROW

On Thursday, Congressman Boehner met with student leaders of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) in his Washington, D.C. Office. Included in the group were two residents of Troy. The students and their chaperones were attending a national conference of FCCLA Students in Washington.
"These students are the future leaders of our nation," Congressman Boehner said. "As the former Chairman of the Education and Workforce Committee, I am very familiar with the many challenges facing our education system today, and I understand how important these organizations are to the development and success of our young people."
Students grilled Congressman Boehner on everything from the future of Pell Grants (he supports them) to whether the congressman plans to run for president (he doesn't; he just wants Nancy Pelosi's speaker's gavel).
FCCLA is a nonprofit national career and technical organization for young men and women in family and consumer sciences education in public and private school through grade 12. Involvement in FCCLA offers members the opportunity to expand their leadership potential and develop skills for life - planning, goal setting, problem solving, decision making, and interpersonal communication.