“Peace, Poetry and Politics” examines the role of poetry as a form of social protest and as a means of calling for peace and justice. The program is sponsored by the Literary Arts Institute of the College of Saint Benedict and the Eugene McCarthy Center for Public Policy and Civic Engagement in collaboration with Graywolf Press. The program will feature three writers who will respond to the topic: Fred Marchant, a Graywolf poet and one of the first Marine officers honorably discharged as a CO during the Vietnam War; Brenda Hillman, a noted poet with seven books of poetry who is also an energetic activist with Code Pink’ and Nick Flynn, also a Graywolf poet and memoirist who has just completed a new book exploring Abu Ghraib and torture.
The program will recall the poetry of protest in World War II and in Vietnam, highlighting Graywolf’s recent publication of a collection of poems by William Stafford titled Another World Instead. The book centers around Stafford’s experience as a conscientious objector during World War II. Eugene McCarthy, an alumnus of Saint John’s, was an admirer of Stafford; in fact, he read Stafford’s poems on the Senate floor and was able to recite the poems from memory. And McCarthy was himself a poet. We will use these past events and experiences as a means to illuminate the situation on the current war-fronts and to explore these questions: do words have any effect on a nation at war? Is the declaration of conscientious objection a public or private act? How does a nation imagine itself at war and can that imagination be enlarged or transformed?
There will be two presentations with this lively group of writers, one on campus on February 5th in Alumnae Hall (HCC) at 7:30 PM and the other in Minnesota Public Radio’s UBS Forum in St. Paul on February 6 at 7:00. Registration will be required for the St. Paul event.
Please visit the McCarthy Center events calendar for a full list of events sponsored by the McCarthy Center.
December 13, 2008
Peace, Poetry and Politics
December 12, 2008
State-based public policy internships
The Institute for Humane Studies at George Mason University is offering a fellowship program for students who wish to intern at public policy think tanks in their home states. This fellowship also involves two weeks of training in Washington.
Participating think tanks in Minnesota include the Center for the American Experiment and the Freedom Foundation. Applicants should apply to the Koch Summer Fellowship Program at GMU.
Opportunity for publication: Encyclopedia on U.S. Government and the Environment
The U.S. Government and the Environment: A Reference Encyclopedia is edited by Dr. Matt Lindstrom and will be published by ABC-CLIO in 2010. This two-volume encyclopedia covers the actors, institutions, events, issues, politics, and policies related to U.S. environmental politics and policy from historical and contemporary perspectives
There are currently over two hundred entries ranging in length from 250 to 2000 words. Authors will be paid a stipend for all accepted work. To get a copy of the list of entries or to propose entries, please contact the encyclopedia editor, Dr. Matt Lindstrom at mlindstrom@csbsju.edu or (320) 363-3364.
Professors, government professionals, graduate students, independent authors and other experts will be issued contracts and deadlines upon acceptance by the editorial team.
November 23, 2008
Internship Listing: Sen. Klobuchar
Each year opportunities are made available to bright and dynamic college students to view, first hand, the workings of government. While you are here, we hope to do several things to make this the most productive experience you have had to date. We will:
- Clearly define expectations
- Offer a rigorous curriculum
- Provide for diverse learning experiences
- Solicit input for further development of the program
For some of you this may be your first internship, and for others, this may be another in a line of internship experiences. Regardless, we have planned this program with the expectation that you will all leave the Office of Senator Klobuchar with skills that can be applied to whichever future endeavor you explore.
It is important to Senator Klobuchar that you leave with a diverse experience. Our aim is to go far beyond just a "bullet point" on your resume and introduce you to public service and the legislative system.
Below you will find more detail about the experiences available in our Minnesota and Washington offices and how to apply.
What can you expect from an internship in Minnesota ?
In the Twin Cities office, you will work directly with congressional aides on a wide range of issues.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Answering phones and assisting constituents with requests
- Assisting constituent advocate staff with casework and related tasks
- Assisting outreach staff with research, event planning and other work in key communities
- Assisting the scheduling and communications staff
- Helping to plan and participation in a monthly community service project
- Other assigned tasks
Every effort is made to match interns with staff based upon interests and previous experience and positions will be filled based on office needs.
Full and part-time unpaid internships are available. If your institution allows or requires college credit, accommodations can be made.
How to apply for an Internship in Minnesota
Please submit the following:
- Application Form (Download)
- Cover Letter Demonstrating Your Writing Skill
- Resume
- Short Writing Sample
- Three References
Internships for the Minnesota program are available for the following four sessions:
- Summer Session
June through August
Deadline: May 15th - Fall Session
September through December
Deadline: September 15th - Spring Session
January through May
Deadline: December 15th - January Session
Deadline: December 15th
If you would like to be considered for this program, please send your application materials by mail, email, or fax to:
U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar
Office of Senator Amy Klobuchar
1200 Washington Avenue South, Suite 250
Minneapolis , MN 55415
Phone: 612-727-5220
Fax: 612-727-5223
Email: Joe_Campbell@Klobuchar.senate.
November 6, 2008
Audio: CSB/SJU students featured on All Things Considered on election eve
Students Laura Huira, Joal Reeves, and Brian Wieliczka were featured in "I'm a college student - where should I vote?" on Minnesota Public Radio News.
November 1, 2008
October 31, 2008
Audio: James Read on Minnesota Public Radio News
Professor James Read's book Doorstep Democracy was one thing considered on the October 30th edition of All Things Considered on Minnesota Public Radio. Listen to host Tom Crann discussing the book here, and visit this MPR page for extended interview segments.
October 25, 2008
Minneapolis: Intergovernmental Relations Intern (Paid)
The following is a verbatim listing from the Minneapolis Office of Intergovernmental Relations. The McCarthy Center posts relevant internship listings without preference for political party or cause.
The Office of Intergovernmental Relations (IGR) is looking for a full-time, temporary intern. The position is for a minimum of six months starting in December 2008. It is designed to provide an opportunity to a recent college graduate or current graduate student. Successful applicant will work closely with Intergovernmental Relations staff as they advocate for the City of Minneapolis’ legislative agenda at the state legislature. Applicant should have an understanding of the Minnesota State Legislature and an interest in legislative/local government issues.
In addition, the IGR Department is looking for someone interested in assisting community-based nonprofit organizations with fundraising, specifically following up with grants related technical assistance. This may include meeting with organizations to help them develop a grants strategy, identify funding opportunities (government sources and private foundations), and editing draft grant proposals.
Duties:
- Assist IGR staff with development of 2008 legislative agenda
- Track legislative issues before the Minnesota Legislature
- Write/edit weekly report updating and summarizing legislative activities and departmental actions
- Research legislative issues and City policies and initiatives
- Assist IGR staff at the Capitol
- Work with community organizations and identify their legislative priorities
- Update city elected officials and department heads regarding legislative actions
- Other duties as assigned
- BA degree required
- Excellent writing skills (may be asked to supply a writing sample)
- Need to be able to work full time during the normal work day—some evenings/weekends possible
- Good organizational skills
- Ability to work with minimal supervision
- Must provide own transportation to and from outside meetings
- Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite including Microsoft Access
Send resume by Friday, November 7, 2008 to: Gene.Ranieri@ci.minneapolis.mn.us
-or-
Gene Ranieri, Director
Intergovernmental Relations
Rm 301M City Hall - 350 S 5th St
Minneapolis, MN 55415
For additional information, call the Intergovernmental Relations Office at (612) 673-2043.
Photos from Oct. 8, 2008 healthcare panel discussion
Photos from the healthcare panel held at CSB.
For more photos, visit our online album.
Photos from Liam Fox visit for the Mark Kennedy Frontiers in Freedom lecture series
Photos from the recent event with Liam Fox, Member of the British Parliament.
For more photos, visit our online album.
October 21, 2008
Position Announcement: Coordinator, McCarthy Center
Saint John's University invites applications for the full time (75%) position of Coordinator for the Eugene J. McCarthy Center for Public Policy and Civic Engagement. The successful candidate will take the lead in planning and organizing all logistical aspects of events and programs to ensure it meets the expectations of sponsors, presenters and those attending. The Coordinator will provide general support to the Director of the Center as well as Center sponsored scholars, students, and guests, review and monitor the Center budget, including preparation of all reimbursements and expenses, and develop a budget tracking mechanism. This position will welcome CSB/SJU students, faculty, alums and interested visitors to the Center and ensure incoming requests are organized, processed, and responded to in an efficient manner. In addition, the Coordinator will provide supervision of the Center student assistants and volunteers.
Qualifications:
Post-secondary education with two to three years of related office experience desired. High School Diploma required.
Good organizational and time management skills, good sense of “detailed” work, excellent initiative and follow-through ability necessary.
In addition, the successful candidate will have strong office management skills and interpersonal communication skills.
Computer knowledge and ability with the willingness to remain current with web-design, word processing, and database software.
Some knowledge or interest in public policy and civic engagement is preferred.
Qualified individuals should submit a letter of interest, resume, and a list of three professional references to:
Saint John’s University
Human Resources - Position # HRW200897
P.O. Box 7188
Collegeville, MN 56321
employment@csbsju.edu
Women and people of diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Saint John's University is an EEO/AA employer.
October 9, 2008
Photos from Politics and a Pint with Nick Coleman
Photos from the recent Politics and a Pint with StarTribune columnist Nick Coleman. For more photos, visit our online album.
British Parliament member Liam Fox speaks on growing threats to national and international security
Update: Photos now online.
COLLEGEVILLE, Minn. - Liam Fox, a member of the British Parliament and Shadow Secretary of State for Defense, speaks at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16 in the Alumni Lounge, Quad Building, Saint John’s University.
He speaks on the growing threats to national and international security. The event is free and open to the public.
Fox was elected as the Member of Parliament for Woodspring in April 1992 and was appointed Parliamentary Private Secretary to Michael Howard, the then Home Secretary. In July 1994, he was appointed an Assistant Government Whip, and promoted to the position of Senior Government Whip the following year. He was a Minister at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office from 1996 until the 1997 general election.
In June 1997, Fox was appointed Opposition Front Bench Spokesman on Constitutional Affairs. He then served from 1999 to 2003 as Shadow Secretary of State for Heath before being appointed Co-Chairman of the Party in 2003. Subsequently, from May 2005 to December 2005, he served as Shadow Foreign Secretary.
Since December 2005, he has been the Shadow Secretary of State for Defense. Fox is also a member of the Royal College of General Practitioners.
The event is sponsored by the Eugene J. McCarthy Center for Public Policy and Civic Engagement at the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University, in conjunction with Mark Kennedy’s Frontiers of Freedom Lecture Series and Students Fostering Conservative Thought at CSB and SJU. Kennedy, who served Minnesota in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2001-07, is a 1979 graduate of SJU.
October 3, 2008
Health care public policy panel held at CSB
Update: Photos now online.
ST. JOSEPH, Minn. – A panel on health care public policy is at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 8 at Room 204A, Gorecki Dining and Conference Center, College of Saint Benedict, St. Joseph.
“At What Cost? A Health Care Policy Panel” looks at who should pay and manage health insurance, and what are the dangers and benefits of government and market solutions.
The panel includes:
- Twila Brase, a public health nurse who is president of the Citizens’ Council on Health Care, a non-profit organization based in St. Paul;
- Steve Ehlen, an insurance broker at Holland and Frank Agency, Sartell. He is a 1993 graduate of Saint John’s University;
- Joe Friedrich, economics professor at CSB and SJU whose areas of academic interest include health economics and the design of health care financing. He is a 1964 graduate of SJU;
- State Rep. Larry Hosch (DFL-St. Joseph), who is a 2001 graduate of SJU. Hosch is the vice chair of the Health Care and Human Services Finance Division committee for the House;
- Kathy Mock, vice president for public affairs at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota. She is a 1980 graduate of CSB.
Families USA internship opportunities
The Villers Fellowship
The Villers Fellowship for Health Care Justice was created in 2005 by Philippe Villers, Founder and President of Families USA. Villers Fellows work in our health policy department and assist our organization's efforts to improve access to health coverage for all Americans, especially for low-income and other vulnerable communities. Specifically, Villers Fellows will conduct research on a range of health care policy issues, and write and contribute to publications that are relevant to current health policy debates.
In creating the fellowship, Mr. Villers aspired to develop a network of young leaders who share a passion for health care justice. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a commitment to health care justice work following their year as a fellow. Additionally, in order to encourage the development of future leaders, Villers Fellows must commit to mentoring at least one person over the course of their careers.
The application deadline for the Villers Fellowship is January 15, 2009.
You can find more information, including a downloadable application form, on our Web site:
http://www.familiesusa.org/
If you have any questions about the Villers Fellowship for Health Care Justice or would like to request hard copies of the application brochure, please contact Melissa Rosenblatt at villersfellowship@familiesusa.
The Wellstone Fellowship
The Wellstone Fellowship for Social Justice aims to advance social justice through health care advocacy by focusing particularly on the unique challenges facing communities of color. Through this fellowship, established to honor the memory of the late Senator Paul D. Wellstone, we hope to expand the pool of talented social justice advocates from underrepresented racial and ethnic minority groups.
The ideal candidate must demonstrate an interest in health care policy and racial/ethnic health disparities. Additionally, we are looking for an individual who displays the potential to contribute to social justice work after their year of hands-on experience as a fellow. You can find more information, including a downloadable application form, on our Web site:
http://www.familiesusa.org/
The application deadline for the Wellstone Fellowship is February 6, 2009.
If you have any questions about the Wellstone Fellowship for Social Justice or would like to request hard copies of the application brochure, please contact me at wellstonefellowship@
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Both fellowships are year-long, full-time, salaried positions at the Families USA office in Washington, DC. Each year, one candidate will be selected for each fellowship. Selected fellows will receive a compensatory package that includes an annual salary of $35,000 and excellent health care benefits.
September 25, 2008
Panel on Judicial Independence a success
From L to R:- Minnesota State Senator and attorney Julianne Ortman
- Philip Kronebusch '81, CSB/SJU Professor of Political Science
- Michael Ford '70, Minnesota State Bar Association President
- Former Minnesota Governor Al Quie
- Anoka County District Court Judge Sharon Hall '76
- Karna Peters, chair of the MSBA Judiciary Committee
- Justice John Simonett
September 22, 2008
SCTimes: Panel at CSB to debate judicial selection
dunze@stcloudtimes.com
The College of St. Benedict will host a panel discussion Tuesday on judicial independence and how Minnesota selects its judges.
John Simonett will chair the panel. Simonett is a St. John’s University graduate and former associate justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court.
It is an opportunity to educate the public about the state of judicial elections and the possible options for the future, said Matt Lindstrom, director of the Eugene J. McCarthy Center for Public Policy and Civic Engagement and associate professor of political science at St. Ben’s and St. John’s.
A 2002 U.S. Supreme Court decision struck down Minnesota’s long-held canon prohibiting judicial candidates from stating their views on disputed legal or political issues.
That decision — Republican Party of Minnesota vs. White — allows candidates to claim political party affiliation.
Many see that as the first step toward the practice of outside influences raising huge sums of cash to challenge candidates with opposing political views.
While that has yet to happen in Minnesota on a large scale, many in the legal community are concerned it will.
That concern and what to do about it likely will be central to the discussion at St. Ben’s, Lindstrom said.
He hopes the panel conveys to those attending “not what to think, but what to think about,” he said.
Among the panelists scheduled to speak at the discussion are:
- Michael Ford, a St. John’s graduate, attorney at Quinlivan & Hughes and president of the Minnesota State Bar Association.
- Former Gov. Al Quie, chaired a commission that studied the issue of judicial elections and made recommendations for how they could be changed.
- Anoka County District Court Judge Sharon Hall, a St. Ben’s graduate who has served on the bench since 1993.
- Karna Peters, an attorney with Peters and Peters in Glenwood who is chair of the state bar association’s judiciary committee.
- State Sen. Julianne Ortman (R, Chanhassen), who is a member of the Senate’s judiciary committee.
- Philip Kronebusch, political science professor at St. Ben’s and St. John’s.
September 12, 2008
State Department Chief of Staff to speak on U.S. Foreign Policy
COLLEGEVILLE, Minn. - Brian Gunderson, State Department chief of staff under Secretary Condoleezza Rice, speaks at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 16 at the Alumni Lounge, Quad Building, Saint John’s University.
Gunderson speaks on “An Overview of U.S. Foreign Policy Today.”
A native of Minnesota, Gunderson became chief of staff under Rice on Jan. 28, 2005. He came to the State Department from the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), where he served as chief of staff to Robert Zoellick. In that capacity, he helped manage USTR as the agency completed free trade negotiations with 10 countries and launched negotiations with 12 others.
Before joining the Bush administration, Gunderson held many senior positions on Capitol Hill. He was chief of staff for House Majority Leader Richard Armey (R-Texas), and advised the Congressional leadership on foreign policy, defense and international economics. He played a key staff role in the passage of the 2001 and 2002 tax acts, trade promotion authority, China trade legislation, national security, appropriations and other legislation.
The event is sponsored by the Eugene J. McCarthy Center for Public Policy and Civic Engagement at the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University, in conjunction with Mark Kennedy’s Frontiers of Freedom Lecture Series and Students Fostering Conservative Thought at CSB and SJU. Kennedy, who served Minnesota in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2001-07, is a 1979 graduate of SJU.
September 1, 2008
Nick Coleman: McCarthy gaffe is like calling Kenneth Starr 'Ringo Starr'
Fame is fleeting, prophets are without honor in their own land and idiots rule.Read more...
During Tuesday's proceedings at the Democratic National Convention in Denver, a photograph of former Minnesota Sen. Eugene McCarthy was shown during a roll call of the honored dead -- departed stalwarts of the Democratic persuasion who have gone to their rewards since the last convention, four years ago.
It would have made a nice moment. But they called him "Joseph McCarthy."
August 21, 2008
SJU alumnus and Professor of Public Policy John Brandl '59 dies
John Brandl, a 1959 graduate of Saint John’s University and a former Minnesota legislator, Distinguished Professor of Public Policy at Saint John’s University and the College of Saint Benedict, and professor and former dean of the Hubert H. Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota, passed away Monday, Aug. 18 in Minneapolis. Brandl was also a regent at Saint John's University from 1991-2000.
"The Saint John's community is saddened by the death of alumnus, colleague, former Regent and beloved friend John Brandl," said Br. Dietrich Reinhart, OSB, president of Saint John's University. "John Brandl was a giant in Minnesota politics and economics. He combined a brilliant mind for scholarship with an unusual ability to apply theory and research as a public servant in numerous policy-making positions, both in Minnesota and at the national level. He had an abiding faith in the capacity of Benedictine values to foster decency, integrity and generosity. The wisdom and balance John demonstrated throughout his life provide enduring inspiration for all."
Brandl graduated cum laude from Saint John’s with a degree in economics and went on to earn a M.A. and Ph.D. in economics from Harvard University. He served in the U.S. Office of the Secretary of Defense, Office of Economic Opportunity, the Economic Development Administration, and as Deputy Assistant Secretary, U. S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare. He served 12 years in the Minnesota Legislature.
Visitation is from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24 at Washburn-McReavy Funeral Chapel, 5000 W. 50th and Highway 100, Edina, Minn. The funeral is at noon Monday, Aug. 25 at the Basilica of Saint Mary, Minneapolis, with Fr. Michael O’Connell officiating. Burial is 3 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 26 at Saint John’s Abbey Cemetery, with a reception following in the Great Hall for friends, faculty and staff to greet the family.
August 2, 2008
"John Brandl Scholars" Endowed
“John Brandl’s accomplishments as educator, legislator and civic leader serve as a model for all of us,” said Dan Whalen ’70. “I can think of no better way to honor him than to encourage today’s students to learn from his example through the John Brandl Scholars program.”
Dan and Katharine Whalen have designated $1 million from their gift to the Eugene J. McCarthy Center for Public Policy & Civic Engagement to endow the John Brandl Scholars program.
John E. Brandl is a 1959 graduate of Saint John’s. The John Brandl Scholars program celebrates Brandl's lifelong commitment to mentorship and scholarship in higher education, public policy and politics. The endowment will fund summer public policy research projects conducted by students and faculty. These collaborative research projects will range from local to international policy arenas, reflecting Dr. Brandl's diverse career and CSB/SJU’s commitment to ethical leadership and the common good. The Brandl Scholars will participate in a broad range of experiential learning opportunities under close faculty mentorship.
Brandl graduated cum laude from Saint John’s and earned master’s and doctorate degrees from Harvard University. He was Distinguished Professor of Public Policy at Saint John’s University and professor and former dean of the Hubert H. Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota. Brandl held positions at the federal level in the U.S. Office of the Secretary of Defense, Office of Economic Opportunity, the Economic Development Administration, and as Deputy Assistant Secretary, U. S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare. He served in the Minnesota Legislature for 12 years. In addition to faculty positions at alma maters Saint John’s University and Harvard University, he held teaching positions at Boston College, the University of Wisconsin, the University of the Philippines and the University of Sydney. He served as president of several national and regional groups and received many civic honors and awards. Brandl was the author of numerous books, monographs, articles and reviews.
Saint John’s welcomes contributions to the John Brandl Scholars endowment. Please contact John Taylor at 320.363.2596 or jtaylor@csbsju.edu.
Alumni and student event in D.C. a success
A celebration of the first year of the McCarthy Center was held on June 26, 2008 in Washington, D.C. This event brought the 2008 Washington interns and Alumni/ae & Friends of the McCarthy Center together to celebrate and network.
Group with Senator Tom Daschle, former Senate Majority Leader, current national co-chair of Obama 08, co-chair of Bono's One Campaign, author of Critical: What We Can Do About the Health Care Crisis
Lisa Spoden ('83), reception co-host, Senior Partner and Executive VP of Strategic Health Care and new member of CSB Board of Trustees, talking with Mary Winzenberg, CSB '06, with the National Assn. of Attorneys General, and Erik Anderson, current SJU student and intern at Rep. Ellison's office
Al Eisele ('58), editor at large, The Hill, McCarthy Center 2008 Scholar in Residence, discussing his residency at the 2008 First Annual Washington DC McCarthy Center reception
CSB students and DC interns Laura Johnson (intern at David Turch and Associates) and Jessica Vining (intern at Dutko Worldwide) along with other CSB and SJU alums at the reception
Charles Howell, son-in-law of Senator McCarthy, husband of Ellen McCarthy-Howell with CSB and SJU alums and students at the reception
Dan Whalen ('70), former SJU Board Chair, benefactor of McCarthy Center, with Hon. John Lindstrom ('63), and David Turch ('63) reception co-chair and founder of David Turch and Associates at the reception
Washington D.C. intern update
Sean Suter, SJU '10, is one of thirteen CSB/SJU students to participate in the Washington D.C. Summer Program. Continue to follow the McCarthy Center website for updates, pictures, and stories from the summer interns.
Senator Obama and Sean Suter
Senator Obama's summer intern group
June 29, 2008
Student Conference on US Affairs in West Point, NY
Each fall semester, the Eugene J. McCarthy Center for Public Policy and Civic Engagement sends one CSB and one SJU student to the United States Military Academy in West Point, NY for an undergraduate student conference focusing on international public policies. Students live in the barracks, eat in the mess halls, and enjoy debate and discussion with other students from around the world. All expenses are paid by the McCarthy Center.
More information about the conference is in the conference email below and at the web site linked in the following email.
If you are interested in being considered for nomination, email the following to Suzanne Reinert no later than August 15, 2008. Late applications will not be accepted. Early applications are welcomed.
Your application to be a CSB or SJU delegate should include the following:
- A cover letter no longer than three pages explaining why you'd like to go, what you could offer the conference and elaborate on your experiences that help prepare you for this conference
- Unofficial transcript
- Resume
Thanks for considering this opportunity. Have a great summer.
May 8, 2008
Video: Politics and the Changing Nature of Journalism
This panel discussion features Al Eisele, Editor-at-Large of The Hill, blogger on Huffington Post, former Washington correspondent for the St. Paul Pioneer Press, and Press Secretary to Vice President Walter Mondale, Minneapolis Star Tribune columnist Nick Coleman, Kitty Eisele, editor, National Public Radio, Fred de Sam Lazaro, Correspondent, The News Hour with Jim Lehrer, and SJU Chair in Critical Thinking, Nick Hayes.
Students participate in Washington Summer Study Program 2008
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Thirteen students from the College of Saint Benedict, St. Joseph, and Saint John’s University, Collegeville, are participating in the Washington Summer Study Program through the end of July.
The program, operated by the political science department in conjunction with The Eugene J. McCarthy Center for Public Policy and Civic Engagement at CSB-SJU, is designed to provide students an opportunity to live and work in the Washington, D.C., area while earning academic credit. Each student serves in a Congressional office, on a committee staff, in a government agency, in a nonprofit organization, or with a public affairs group, learning and working in a community. They apply for their internships based on their interests.
In addition to the work experience, program co-directors Matt Lindstrom, associate professor of political science at CSB-SJU, and Claire Haeg, assistant professor of political science at CSB-SJU, conduct weekly seminars and arrange supplemental meetings with alumnae/i and other professionals to enhance the learning experience. Among the alumnae/i who have spoken to the students are David Rehr, ’81, president and CEO of the National Association of Broadcasters; and Peg McGlinch, ’95, former chief of staff for Rep. Tim Walz (D, Minn.).
Students serving internships from CSB include:
- Bibi Abdalla, a junior political science major from St. Paul, Minn., is interning at the office of Representative Keith Ellison (D, Minn.);
- Laura Johnson, a junior political science major from Minnetonka, Minn., is interning at the offices of David Turch and Associates, a government relations firm which provides strategic planning, legislative goal setting, and political analysis;
- Kristina Nesse, a junior political science and economics double major from Albert Lea, Minn., is interning at the office of Senator Amy Klobuchar (D, Minn.);
- Jessica Vining, a senior political science and philosophy double major from Troutdale, Oregon, is interning at the offices of Dutko Worldwide, a government affairs strategy firm.
- Erik R. Anderson, a junior political science major from Eden Prairie, Minn., is interning at the office of Representative Keith Ellison (D, Minn.);
- Colin Blair, a sophomore political science and prelaw major from Anchorage, Alaska, is interning at the offices of the Americans for Tax Reform;
- Barry Griffin, a junior political science major from Nassau, Bahamas, is interning at the offices of Caribbean-Central American Action, an organization working to promote economic development in the Caribbean and Central America;
- Brad Hagemeier, a senior political science and economics double major from Eden Valley, Minn., is interning with the Agriculture Committee in the U.S. House of Representatives;
- Jacob Haider, a junior political science and history double major from Forest Lake, Minn, is interning at the office of Senator Norm Coleman (R, Minn.);
- Daniel Haller, a junior political science and peace studies double major from Albertville, Minn., is interning at the D.C. Public Defender’s office;
- Jeffrey Schnobrich, a junior political science major from New Ulm, Minn, is interning at the Transportation Committee in the U.S. House of Representatives;
- Boris Sekulic, a junior political science major from Bosnia and Herzegovina, is interning at the Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina;
- Sean Suter, a sophomore political science major from Rochester, Minn, is interning at the office of Senator Barak Obama (D, Ill)
Stearns County Courts Internship
Project assistance with the Stearns County Adult Drug Court and Stearns County Family Dependency Treatment Court
Brigid Murphy '89 is the coordinator for both of these courts and would provide guidance and oversight to an intern. You may reach Brigid via e-mail at brigid.murphy@courts.state.mn.us or her direct office number is 320-656-6364.
May 7, 2008
Video: Eugene McCarthy memorial service
The Saint John's memorial Mass from January 23, 2006. Abbot John Klassen of Saint John's Abbey will be the celebrant. Eulogists include Walter Mondale, former U.S. vice president; Albert Eisele, a Saint John’s alumnus and a long-time Washington journalist whose book, "Almost to the Presidency," is a biographical review of Eugene McCarthy and Hubert Humphrey; Eugene McCarthy’s son, Michael; and the Rev. Hilary Thimmesh, OSB, president emeritus at Saint John’s.
CenterCast on iTunes
Sign up for CenterCast, the McCarthy Center podcast, for audio and video on iTunes and your iPod. By signing up, our lectures, events, meetings, and video will always be up-to-date on your computer.
To get iTunes, click here. For more ways to subscribe to the CenterCast feed, click here.
May 5, 2008
Public Innovators Undergraduate Internship
Root Cause is a nonprofit organization that accelerates enduring solutions to social and economic problems by supporting social innovators and educating social impact investors. We do this through business planning and implementation, leadership development, research, and the creation of professional and funding networks that unite the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Our key initiatives include consulting, social enterprises, knowledge sharing, research, and public policy.
Public Innovators, a nonpartisan Root Cause initiative, introduces government leaders at the city, state, and federal levels to social entrepreneurship and guides them in identifying and advancing transformative and sustainable solutions to today's toughest social problems. Public Innovators builds off our work with the Louisiana Lieutenant Governor’s Office, as well as two Root Cause reports: Social Entrepreneurship and Government: A New Breed of Entrepreneurs Developing Solutions to Social Problems, published by the U.S. Small Business Administration, and Advancing Social Entrepreneurship: Recommendations for Policy Makers and Government Agencies, a co-publication with The Aspen Institute. These publications and more information are available at www.publicinnovators.com.
About the Internship
The director of Public Innovators is Minnesota-based and seeks an unpaid intern for the summer, with the possibility that the position may be extended into and through the academic year. The intern may also apply for academic credit.
A new initiative, Public Innovators is experiencing rapid growth and is at the cutting edge of research and practice on social problem solving. This internship offers an excellent opportunity for students to gain significant knowledge of and experience in: the nonprofit sector and nonprofit management; public policy and government; and innovative approaches to social problem solving. The intern will be expected to commit to a set number of hours each week and must have access to a personal computer. If committing to full-time work during the summer, the individual may be eligible for a stipend. There is some flexibility in the particular projects the intern will work on, depending on skill set and interests.
Possibilities include:
- Brainstorm and research potential strategic partnerships
- Contribute to fundraising and development strategy
- Manage web outreach strategy, including Public Innovators’ own website, blog and wikis
- Research critical policy issues in specific states
- Conduct research and draft memos on policy issues and efforts, such as the creation of a social innovation fund and tax structure changes to enable new organizational forms
- Administrative assistance
- Currently pursuing or recently completed an undergraduate degree
- Excellent writing, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, Internet, etc with access to own computer (laptop preferred)
- Interest and comfort in working in an entrepreneurial, start-up environment
- Ability to work independently and a desire to take on increased responsibility
- Strong project management skills and public policy exposure desired
Send your resume to Colleen Ebinger at cebinger@rootcause.org with a cover letter describing your interest in the internship and your relevant skills/experience. Questions about the position are welcome.
Applications will be considered as they are received; priority consideration to early responses.
May 4, 2008
May 3, 2008
Eleven students participating as delegates in state party conventions
You don’t need to be a political science major to realize there are major differences between the Minnesota Republican and DFL political parties. But one thing is clear – students from the College of Saint Benedict, St. Joseph, and Saint John’s University, Collegeville, will meet those differences head-on at each state convention.
Five students from SJU are delegates to the Republican state convention May 29-31, and six students from CSB and SJU are delegates to the DFL state convention June 6-8. Both conventions are in Rochester.
The Republican state delegates are SJU students Chase Kroll (sophomore, history major, Orono, Minn.), Colman Silbernagel (junior, political science and history, Perham, Minn.), Kurt Sorensen (senior, mathematics, Burnsville, Minn.), Heath Stoll (junior, accounting, Apple Valley, Minn.) and Chris Van Guilder (senior, political science, Delano, Minn.). SJU student Ryan Lais (sophomore, management, St. Paul) is an alternate delegate to the convention.
“CSB and SJU students add vibrancy to the Republican community with their youthful enthusiasm,” Sorensen said. “Even at the end of the day, we are standing up and speaking before the convention to talk about what we believe in. It’s encouraging to see so many students involved in the process – it shows that this generation cares about the direction of our country and who’s in charge.”
The DFL state delegates are CSB students Ashleigh Leitch (senior, political science/pre-law, Willmar, Minn.) and Robyn Meyer (senior, political science and Spanish, St. Cloud, Minn.), and SJU students Nick Hansen (sophomore, environmental studies, Wyoming, Minn.), Michael Johnson (sophomore, political science/pre-law, Eagan, Minn.), Joe Kane (senior, political science, Golden Valley, Minn.) and Matt Steinrueck (junior, environmental studies, Minneapolis). CSB student Sarah Gaida (senior, political science and peace studies, Rice, Minn.), and SJU students Eric Loehr (first-year, music, St. Cloud) and Zachary Shaheen (senior, biochemistry/pre-med, Elk River, Minn.) are alternate delegates to the convention.
Leitch has also been selected to be an alternate delegate to the Democratic National Convention Aug. 25-28 in Denver.
“The importance of civic engagement at CSB and SJU has sparked a new interest and dialogue on campus and this is the end result: People are getting excited about the change and impact they have in making a society that reflects the Benedictine values of the common good, service, stewardship, hospitality, justice and respect for all individuals,” Kane said.
May 1, 2008
McCarthy Center receives grant to support Washington D.C. studies
The McCarthy Center wishes to thank the Lawrence H. and Elizabeth S. Dunlap Foundation for their recent grant to support the Washington D.C. Summer Study Program.
April 23, 2008
Scholarship and Creativity Day
To all members of the CSB/SJU community: you are invited to attend student oral presentations today for the Public Policy Analysis and Recommendation project (Pols 114) in which students diagnose some policy problem and recommend a solution. The presentations will be in Simons G-40. The afternoon session goes from 1-4 PM, and the evening session from 7-9 PM. You do not need to stay for the entire session. These presentations are part of the Scholarship and Creativity Day activities. -James Read, Department of Political Science
Participating Students and Presentation Titles:
1:00-4:00 PM
- Anna Schumacher: Universal Pre-K Program
- Brian Strauss: Southwest Light Rail Transitway: The next step in MSP public transportation
- Ashleigh Leitch: Addressing Human Trafficking through Mandatory Reporting
- Sarah Gaida: Reintegration of Africa's Child Soldiers
- Dan Burgstaler: China's manipulation of currency.
- Casey Wojtalewicz: Feed-In Tariffs in Minnesota: Renewable Energy For and By All
- Jacob Lantry: "Refuse Derived Fuel: A Solution to the Dilemma at St. Paul's Rock-Tenn Recycling Plant."
- Jacob Law: Public Buildings and Environmental Regulation
- Michael Swanberg: Metropolitan Water District
- Kellianne Lauer: Pro Bono Legal Assistance for Undocumented Minors
7:00-9:00 PM
- Amy Hoeschen: Common Curriculum: waving an Environmental Flag High
- Tasha Truskolaski: Homeowner Protection Package
- Michael Cronan: The Reinforcement of the Fairness Doctrine
- Sarah Biro: Consistency in Nutritional Education in Public Schools
- Hannah Lammer: Reevaluating Efficiency and Health: Food Stamp Program Reform
- Joe Eiden: Judicial Bypass: Minnesota’s Flawed Option for Minors Seeking Abortion
- Rachel Kohout: Real Costs of War Profiteers: Inefficiency of Private Contracting
- Erik Anderson: Indoor Air Quality in Minnesota Public Schools
- Alan Albert: A New Reformed Health Care System in America
CSB/SJU Welcomes Julian Bond for the 2008 McCarthy Lecture
The Eugene J. McCarthy Center for Public Policy and Civic Engagement announces that Julian Bond, chairman of the board of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), will deliver the secondannual Eugene J. McCarthy Lecture at 7 p.m. Wed., Oct. 29, in the Stephen B. Humphrey Theater on the Saint John's University campus.
February 12, 2008
Public Policy Forum Debate
On March 11th at 7pm in the Pellegrene Auditorium, The Eugene J. McCarthy Center for Public Policy & Civic Engagement is sponsoring a public debate on environmental policy. The central debate resolution is “Be it resolved that the free-market is best suited to protect the environment.”
This debate will be well balanced, with highly qualified people on both sides of the event.
Christopher Horner, a best-selling author and a senior fellow at the Competitive Enterprise Institute, will be making an encore appearance and speaking on the affirmative side of the resolution.
Denis McDonough, a ’92 SJU alum, Senior Fellow at the Center for American Progress and advisor to Presidential candidate Barack Obama, will argue against the resolution.
The McCarthy Center will also prepare four students to participate alongside the experts, with two students on each side. A larger group of students will serve as a debate prep team.
With growing scientific knowledge of the multitude of environmental issues, many folks are increasingly interested in the debate over the role of government and private sector in response to these issues. Topics like cap and trade systems, carbon taxes, Kyoto Treaty, and other public policy issues are likely to be addressed, along with capitalism’s profit incentive and how environmental integrity plays in to that.
We hope this debate will interest faculty, staff, and students from many disciplines and political ideas. However, we also hope this will be an informative, lively, and civil debate for those who just want to learn more about the issues and trade offs associated with environmental policy.