Thiel students participated in leadership program for women in politics and public policy

GREENVILLE, Pa.-- Two Thiel College students participated in the NEW Leadership Pennsylvania Summer Institute this summer.

Payton Brooks ’22, a political science and public policy major, and Madison Walsh ’23, also majoring in political science, both were accepted into the highly competitive weeklong program put on by the Pennsylvania Center for Women and Politics. The program is designed to teach women the value of civic engagement and encourages them to see themselves as empowered leaders who can participate effectively in politics and public policy.

During the program, students develop and practice leadership skills, establish networks with like-minded peers and successful political women and embrace their leadership abilities. Graduates of the program are actively engaged in making a difference in their communities as elected or appointed officials, policymakers, issue experts and informed citizens. Roughly 35 students from across the state are selected through a competitive application process.

“It was so great to meet a lot of women leaders and I feel that I learned many new skills,” Walsh said.

The NEW Leadership Summer Institute was held June 5-9 at Chatham University in Pittsburgh, Pa.

“I was honored to attend the Pennsylvania Center for Women & Politics NEW Leadership Program at Chatham University," Brooks said. "It was a great experience, and I learned about a lot of different opportunities and ways to be involved in differing communities.” 

Brook, of Venango, Pa., is a 2018 graduate of Saegertown High School. She graduated from Thiel with Bachelor of Arts degrees in political science and public policy and minors in English and international studies.

Walsh ’23, a political science major and 2019 Ringgold (Pa.) High School graduate, is a member of the women’s soccer team and was recognized with a Thiel College Library Research Award during the 2021–22 academic year.

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