Info night Nov. 30 on Delegate Anderson’s “Future Delegate” program for students in grades 7-12

Del. Rich Anderson will host his fourth annual “51st House District Future Delegate Program” at the Virginia State Capitol in Richmond during January and February 2016.

The program is open to students in grades 7-12. They may be enrolled in any public or private school, to include home-schooled students. The 51st House District stretches the town of Occoquan westward through Lake Ridge, the county portions of Manassas, and into Brentsville and Nokesville.

All students are welcome to participate, regardless of party affiliation or views. The Future Delegate Program focuses solely on the legislative process and exposes students and families to legislative life in Richmond.

The goal is for students to return home after a full day in Richmond with a greater appreciation for the public policy process. Anderson’s goal is to motivate students to pursue public service as their chosen profession as an adult.

At the Nov. 30 meeting, Anderson and his staff will brief students and families on the program, answer questions, and hand out and receive applications from prospective participants.

In 2013, 2014, and 2015, Anderson hosted a PWC student for an entire day at the Capitol under his Future Delegate Program.

According to a press release from Anderson, “Over the last three years, we have hosted more than 100 students and their families. They stayed by my side for the full day, attending committee meetings, the daily House floor session, press conferences, and meetings with the Governor and other senior elected officials.”

The intent is that only one or two students will participate each day, so that they experience quality time with their elected representative and are able to focus fully on the legislative process.

Anderson further stated that “I look forward to welcoming another 35 students to Richmond in January and February. I want young people, who are the next generation of leadership in our Commonwealth, to experience Virginia’s legislative process first-hand. I want them to seriously consider a career in public service.”

if your student is interested but can’t attend Monday’s meeting, please email Neighborhood Coordinator, Kristina Kotlus, at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address), or call Anderson’s legislative office at 571-264-9983. They’ll make alternative arrangements to discuss the program with you, answer questions, and enroll your student.