NEW Leadership South Carolina 2013
May 19-22, 2013
Winthrop University, Rock Hill, SC

The John C. West Forum on Politics and Policy at Winthrop University is pleased to partner with the College of Charleston and Coastal Carolina University to bring the NEW Leadership Summer Institute to South Carolina. NEW Leadership South Carolina is affiliated with the NEW Leadership Network created by the Center for American Women and Politics at Rutgers University.

The purpose of NEW Leadership South Carolina is to educate college women about the political process and to inspire them to consider careers in public service. In spite of recent gains, including the election of its first female governor in 2010, South Carolina still ranks 49th in the percentage of women in elective office, and women are underrepresented in on public boards and commissions.

NEW Leadership South Carolina is a residential program that gives college women the knowledge and skills to become effective leaders in politics, public policy and public service. During the four-day Institute, participants will meet women leaders, learn about women in American politics, and develop and practice leadership skills through panel discussions, workshops, and hands-on projects. After the Summer Institute, participants are encouraged to continue to develop public leadership skills and become involved in community affairs.  

Who should apply?

The program is open to undergraduate and graduate students enrolled at any South Carolina college or university in 2012-13, and any South Carolina residents attending college out of state. NEW Leadership South Carolina is committed to including participants from diverse backgrounds, ideological perspectives, and fields of study. Women of color, nontraditional-aged students, technical college students, students with disabilities and those in fields other than Political Science are especially encouraged to apply.

Space is limited. Participants will be selected based on their commitment to women's leadership and their interest in public affairs generally.

What does the program cost?

The program fee is $200 per person. The fee covers housing, food, on-campus parking, and all program materials for the four days of the Institute. Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from the Summer Institute.

A limited number of $100 scholarships are available from the John C. West Forum on Politics and Policy. The scholarships will be awarded on the basis of need. In addition, applicants are encouraged to approach their institutions for financial support.

How can I apply?

Complete the application form and submit it to the West Forum by the deadline. Applications may be mailed, Emailed or faxed. Application Deadline is March 15, 2013.

• If you wish to e-mail your application to us, please feel free to complete this version of the application, which allows you to edit the document directly from your computer using adobe: Editable Adobe Application (191kb -- pdf)  
• If you wish to fax or mail in your application to us, please feel free to complete this version of the application by printing it out and then filling it out with an ink pen: Standard Application (166kb -- pdf)

Do you still have questions?

Feel free to contact Karen M. Kedrowski, Director of the West Forum or Katarina Moyon, Assistant Director of the West Forum.