2019 Government Relations Network Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference

Over spring break, 65 Miami University students and Miami University’s President will participate in the Government Relations Network Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference. During the Conference, students will meet with members of the Ohio Congressional Delegation and members of the Ohio General Assembly. In these meetings, students will advocate for higher education and Miami University by sharing their own Miami experiences with members and staff. Students will present to members and staff undergraduate research and experiential learning opportunities that they have engaged in at two poster sessions, one on Capitol Hill and the other at the Ohio Statehouse. Students will also hear from state and federal policymakers on leadership, citizenship, and advocacy.

Here’s a brief look at a few of our participants.

Matthew Houk
Junior, houkmb@miamioh.edu
Major: Political Science      Minor: History
Hometown: Upper Arlington, OH 43220
Campus Involvement:

• President of the Dean of Libraries Student Advisory Council
• Member of the Janus Forum Steering Committee
• College Ambassador for the College of Arts and Sciences
• Member of the Government Relations Network

Why Miami: When I began to look at different universities I had wanted to study aerospace
engineering–however, I soon learned that I’m bad at math. I visited Miami University in the spring of 2015 and I was very impressed with the campus and the opportunities it would
be able to offer me. As someone who was still searching for what to study in college, I am incredibly grateful that I chose a school that offers a liberal arts education.

U.S. Congressional Member: Steve Stivers
Ohio Senator: Stephanie Kunze
Ohio House Member: Allison Russo

Jannie Kamara
Sophomore, kamaraja@miamioh.edu
Major: Black World Studies     Minor: Political Science
Hometown: Columbus, Ohio 43229
Campus Involvement:

• Student Senator on the Associated Government
• Member of the Miami University Treblemakers
• Member of Government Relations Network

Why Miami: I chose Miami because of the financial support they have given me. As a twin, my family has to support two daughters who attend different institutions so I was very concerned about the ability to pay for Miami. When I received my financial aid package, my family and I were over the moon to see that I had received multiple academic scholarships that have aided me to attend Miami.

U.S. Congressional Member: Joyce Beatty
Ohio Senator: Andrew O. Brenner
Ohio House Member: David Leland

Jacob Bruggeman
Senior, bruggej2@miamioh.edu
Majors: History and Political Science
Hometown: Brunswick, OH 44212
Campus Involvement:

• Joanna Jackson Goldman Scholar
• Member of the President’s Transformational Student Experience Subcommittee
• Chair of the College of Arts and Science Dean’s Student Advisory Council
• Graduate Assistant in the Department of Political Science and Center for Public Management and Regional Affairs

Why Miami: I chose Miami because of the vast array of opportunities available to students on this campus, the passion with which teachers lead in its classrooms, and the overall investment the university makes in its community.

U.S. Congressional Member: Anthony Gonzales
Ohio Senator: Larry Obhof
Ohio House Member: Steve Hambley

2019 Government Relations Network Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference

Over spring break, 65 Miami University students and Miami University’s President will participate in the Government Relations Network Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference. During the Conference, students will meet with members of the Ohio Congressional Delegation and members of the Ohio General Assembly. In these meetings, students will advocate for higher education and Miami University by sharing their own Miami experiences with members and staff. Students will present to members and staff undergraduate research and experiential learning opportunities that they have engaged in at two poster sessions, one on Capitol Hill and the other at the Ohio Statehouse. Students will also hear from state and federal policymakers on leadership, citizenship, and advocacy.

Here’s a look at a few of our participants.

Jacob Selent
First-Year, selentjt@miamioh.edu
Majors: History and Political Science      Minor: German
Hometown: Amherst, Ohio 44001
Campus involvement: 

• Member of Miami University History Association
• Member of Model United Nations
• Member of Government Relations Network

Why Miami: I chose Miami because it was the best fit, both academically and financially, for myself. I was offered numerous academic scholarships from Miami that no other university I applied came close to comparing. I started my first year of Miami University with 43 college credits courtesy of College Credit Plus program. This will enable me to graduate with a double major and one minor in 4 years. The faculty members of Miami’s history department are ultimately what finalized the decision for me. The interactions and conversations I had with them told me they were serious and passionate about teaching the undergraduate population.

U.S. Congressional Member: Marcy Kaptur
Ohio Senator: Nathan Manning
Ohio House Member: Joe Miller

Tyre Israel
First-year, israeltm@miamioh.edu
Major: Strategic Communication
Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio 45224
Campus Involvement:

• Member of Government Relations Network

Why Miami: When looking into schools, being able to afford college was important to me and my family. Miami met this requirement by giving me a very good scholarship package. In coming to Miami, I also got other opportunities like going on trips and the chance to grow as an individual.

U.S. Congressional Member: Steve Chabot
Ohio Senator: Cecil Thomas
Ohio House Representative: Catherine Ingram

Jack Shawler
Sophomore, shawlejc@miamioh.edu
Major: Finance and Chinese
Hometown: Centerville, Ohio 45429
Campus Involvement:

• Member of Government Relations Network
• Member of Miami Finance Association
• Dean’s Student Library Advisory Council
• Scholar Leader Living Learning Community
• Vice President of Chinese American Business Organization
• Howe Center for Business Writing Consultant
• Circulation Desk Employee at King Library
• Panelist for President Crawford’s Boldly Creative Initiative

Why Miami: Originally, I applied to Miami University as a Safe school. I had my heart set on going to my mother’s alma mater, however, Miami University sold me as soon as I stepped on campus. Not only was I able to major in Finance, But, I was also able to major in East Asian Languages and Cultures with a Chinese Concentration. In addition, I was able to attend school for a fraction of the cost of full tuition which was helpful because I am attempting to pay my way through school myself.

U.S. Congressional Member: Michael Turner
Ohio Senator: Peggy Lehner
Ohio House Member: Niraj Antani

2019 Government Relations Network Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference

Over spring break, 65 Miami University students and Miami University’s President will participate in the Government Relations Network Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference. During the Conference, students will meet with members of the Ohio Congressional Delegation and members of the Ohio General Assembly. In these meetings, students will advocate for higher education and Miami University by sharing their own Miami experiences with members and staff. Students will present to members and staff undergraduate research and experiential learning opportunities that they have engaged in at two poster sessions, one on Capitol Hill and the other at the Ohio Statehouse. Students will also hear from state and federal policymakers on leadership, citizenship, and advocacy.

Here’s a look at a few of our participants.

Natalie Assaf
Second-year, assafna@miamioh.edu
Major: Public Administration
Hometown: Dublin, OH 43017
Campus Involvement:

• Government Relations Network
• Advocacy for Institutional Relations Office
• Chief of Compliance for First Miami Student and Alumni Credit Union
• Big Brothers Big Sisters of Butler County

Why Miami: I decided to come to Miami because I felt that it would give me the best education and college experience. When visiting schools, I felt most at home at Miami University. The campus felt like home and it helped that they gave me a healthy scholarship package. I was also allowed to transfer a lot of high school credits so I will be graduating a year early.

US Congressional Member: Troy Balderson
Ohio House Member: Beth Liston
Ohio Senator: Stephanie Kunze

Justin Spencer
First-year, spencejp@miamioh.edu
Major: Biology and Environmental Science
Hometown: Dayton, OH 45458
Campus Involvement:

• Member of Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Alliance (LSAMP)
• Member of National Association for Environmental Professionals (NAEP)

Why Miami: When I started applying for college, I knew I wanted to go to a school that would offer exceptional academic opportunities and put me in a position to achieve all the goals I want post-graduation. Miami helps me achieve these objectives by offering a top tier education and allowing me to work with excellent faculty and network with extraordinary people.

U.S. Congressional Member: Michael Turner
Ohio Senator: Peggy Lehner
Ohio House Member: Jim Butler

Christyna Thompson
Junior, thomp186@miamioh.edu
Major: Political Science      Minor: Criminology
Hometown: Cincinnati, 45011
Campus Involvement:

• President and Public Relations Chair of National Black Law Students Association Pre-Law Chapter
• Member of Government Relations Network

Why Miami: During the college application process, Miami was not my first choice in schools I desired to attend. My older brother enrolled at the university two years ahead of
me. After hearing how much he enjoyed his classes, his student organization, and seeing
the outstanding financial aid package he was awarded, I figured I would give Miami a shot.
I’m grateful I did because so many doors have been opened for me here and I have been allowed me to develop as an individual within a changing social climate, equipping me with the knowledge and experiences necessary to compete at a high level.

U.S. Congressional Member: Representative Warren Davidson
Ohio Senator: Senator William P. Coley II
Ohio House Member: Representative George F. Lang

2019 Government Relations Network Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference

Over spring break, 65 Miami University students and Miami University’s President will participate in the Government Relations Network Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference. During the Conference, students will meet with members of the Ohio Congressional Delegation and members of the Ohio General Assembly. In these meetings, students will advocate for higher education and Miami University by sharing their own Miami experiences with members and staff. Students will present to members and staff undergraduate research and experiential learning opportunities that they have engaged in at two poster sessions, one on Capitol Hill and the other at the Ohio Statehouse. Students will also hear from state and federal policymakers on leadership, citizenship, and advocacy.

Here’s a look at a few of our participants.

Sydney Jefferson
First-year, jeffers6@miamioh.edu
Major: Marketing      Minors: Law and Society and Spanish
Hometown: West Chester, OH 45069
Campus involvement:

• Social Chair of Hahne Hall Community Leadership Team
• Director of Campus Involvement
• Finance and Executive Assistant for Office of Government Relations Network
• Bridges Scholars Diversity and Inclusion Program
• Honors College Student
• Varsity Track and Field Athlete
• Government Relations Network member
• Member of Athletes in Action

Why Miami: I chose Miami because I walked on campus and knew this was the place for me. I enjoy the campus, the people, and the academic excellence that comes with a Miami education. The financial aid that I received, a combination of academic and athletic rewards, was the final push I needed to come to the Original Public Ivy.

U.S. Congressional Member: George Lang
Ohio Senator: Bill Coley Ohio
Ohio House Member: Warren Davidson

Moustafa Djuma
First-year, djumam@miamioh.edu
Major: Computer Science
Hometown: Cincinnati, OH 45205
Campus Involvement:

• Member of Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP)
• Member of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)
• Member of the Government Relations Network

Why Miami: I chose Miami because I instantly knew that I was going to receive quality education upon touring the campus. Also, I received a scholarship that made the decision very clear. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity I got and I plan on using it wisely.

U.S. Congressional Member: Steve Chabot
Ohio Senator: Louis Terhar
Ohio House Member: Louis Blessing

Jennifer Brown
Junior, brownjs5@miamioh.edu
Majors: Psychology and Political Science
Hometown: Marion, OH 43302
Campus Involvement:

• Student Senator for Miami University’s Associated Student Government (ASG)
• Member of Miami Initiatives Team for the Coalition for Healthy Community (MITs)
• Member of the John Adams Society (ISI)
• Member of Miami University Young Americans for Freedom (YAF)
• Member of the Miami University College Republicans

Why Miami: I knew that I wanted to stay in Ohio. I am passionate about the great things
happening for the state of Ohio and luckily, we have some amazing schools in our state.
While visiting with my mother we entered the library and it was very loud inside. She
looked at me and said, “this is what a library is supposed to sound on a college campus.”
This resonated with me. The many voices meant that there was collaboration, active
learning, and teamwork. I knew then that I wanted to be a part of that.

U.S. Congressional Member: Jim Jordan
Ohio Senator: Dave Burke
Ohio House Member: Tracy Richardson

2019 Government Relations Network Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference

Over spring break, 65 Miami University students and Miami University’s President will participate in the Government Relations Network Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference. During the Conference, students will meet with members of the Ohio Congressional Delegation and members of the Ohio General Assembly. In these meetings, students will advocate for higher education and Miami University by sharing their own Miami experiences with members and staff. Students will present to members and staff undergraduate research and experiential learning opportunities that they have engaged in at two poster sessions, one on Capitol Hill and the other at the Ohio Statehouse. Students will also hear from state and federal policymakers on leadership, citizenship, and advocacy.

Here’s a look at a few of our participants.

Elizabeth Brueggemann
First-year, brueggej@miamioh.edu
Majors: Professional Writing and Creative Writing
Hometown: Saint Louis, MO
Campus Involvement:

• First Year Research Experience Member
• LEAN Fair Presenter
• Clothesline Project Volunteer
• Published in Inklings
• President’s List

Why Miami: I chose to attend Miami University because of the quality research opportunities offered to undergraduates. As a student who loves both the humanities and the sciences, I knew that I would need guidance and experience in a variety of disciplines before settling on a major. The professors and advisors I’ve encountered here went above and beyond to connect me with these opportunities.

Missouri Senator: Josh Hawley
Missouri House Member: Ann Wagner

Jaylen Perkins
Junior, perkinj5@miamioh.edu
Major: Public Health | Pre-Medical Studies
Hometown: South Euclid, OH, 44121
Campus Involvement:

• Resident Assistant, Hillcrest Hall
• President, Black Student Action Association
• Financial and Corresponding Secretary, Delta Upsilon Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
• Coordinator, Miss Black and Gold 2019 Scholarship Pageant, Delta Upsilon Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
• Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students, member
• Government Relations Network, member
• Associated Student Government, Student Body Presidential Candidate

Why Miami: I chose Miami because of its proximity from my hometown, the medium-sized campus, financial assistance and the professor-student mentorship. Miami presented itself to me as an opportunity to not only achieve my academic goals, but to give me an opportunity to grow as an individual, transfer academic experiences to other experiences in my life, and to serve my community as an advocate for effective change.

U.S. Congressional Member: Marcia L. Fudge
Ohio Senator: Kenny Yuko
Ohio House Representative: Kent Smith

London Hollinger
Junior, hollinlm@miamioh.edu
Major: Software Engineering      Minor: Spanish
Hometown: Akron, OH 44306
Campus Involvement:

• President and Director of the Miami University Gospel Singers
• Member of Miami University’s Active Minds chapter
• Member of Association for Computing Machinery – Women (ACM-W)
• Member of Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP)
• Member of Miami Ambassadors Creating Change
• Member of Students Together Empowering Minorities (STEM)
• Member of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)

Why Miami: Originally, I wanted to follow the footsteps of nearly everyone in my family and go out of state. I applied to Miami, before visiting, as security, a “just in case” school. Due to generous merit scholarships, Miami made the most sense for me financially.

U.S. Congressional Member: Marcia L. Fudge
Ohio Senator: Vernon Sykes
Ohio House Member: Emilia Strong Sykes

2019 Government Relations Network Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference

Over spring break, 65 Miami University students and Miami University’s President will participate in the Government Relations Network Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference. During the Conference, students will meet with members of the Ohio Congressional Delegation and members of the Ohio General Assembly. In these meetings, students will advocate for higher education and Miami University by sharing their own Miami experiences with members and staff. Students will present to members and staff undergraduate research and experiential learning opportunities that they have engaged in at two poster sessions, one on Capitol Hill and the other at the Ohio Statehouse. Students will also hear from state and federal policymakers on leadership, citizenship, and advocacy.

Here’s a look at a few of our participants.

Mekel Chapman
Sophomore, chapmam5@miamioh.edu
Major: Chemical Engineering      Minors: Process Control and Paper Science
Hometown: Cleveland, OH 44128
Campus Involvement:

• Member of Miami University Student Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI)
• Member of Government Relations Network

Why Miami: I chose to attend Miami University because of its beautiful campus, home-like atmosphere and generous scholarship offering. It was very important that I was comfortable at school and not placing a financial burden on my family. I also was very impressed by Miami’s Paper Science Program. I chose Miami because they could help me find opportunities that other colleges may not have been able to help me with.

U.S. Congressional Member: Marcia L. Fudge
Ohio Senator: Kenny Yuko
Ohio House Member: Juanita O. Bren

Lauren Poythress
Junior, poythrl@miamioh.edu
Majors: Psychology and Black World Studies
Hometown: Carmel, IN 46033
Campus Involvement:

• Chief of Staff, Miami University Office of Institutional Relations
• President of Bridges Scholars
• Vice President of National Black Law Association
• Student Court Justice
• Government Relations Network Member

Why Miami: I chose Miami for the school’s reputation and the opportunities it could give me for the future. Miami has already helped me to make major steps toward reaching my goal of civil rights lawyer through the support, encouragement, and personal connections I have made with professors within and outside of my majors. My experiences during my first semester alone helped me feel confident and prepared enough to pursue this opportunity on my own.

U.S. Congressional Member: Susan W. Brooks

Matthew Vito
Sophomore, vitomj@miamioh.edu
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Hometown: Kirtland, OH 44094
Campus Involvement:

• Vice-chair of the Dean of Libraries Student Advisory Board
• Member of the 8th cohort of the Lockheed Martin Leadership Institute (STEM)
• Member of Engineers without Borders (STEM)
• Member of the Archery Club

Why Miami: The first time I stepped on Miami’s campus I knew that this was the place I would go to college. I knew that this was the place I would become more mature and build intangible qualities that no other school could. Having a connection to this school has made innumerable connections for me in the engineering world and I can not wait to see where the next two and a half years will take me.

U.S. Congressional Member: Joyce, David
Ohio Senator: Sean J.O.
Ohio House Member: Jamie Callender

2019 Government Relations Network Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference

Over spring break, 65 Miami University students and Miami University’s President will participate in the Government Relations Network Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference. During the Conference, students will meet with members of the Ohio Congressional Delegation and members of the Ohio General Assembly. In these meetings, students will advocate for higher education and Miami University by sharing their own Miami experiences with members and staff. Students will present to members and staff undergraduate research and experiential learning opportunities that they have engaged in at two poster sessions, one on Capitol Hill and the other at the Ohio Statehouse. Students will also hear from state and federal policymakers on leadership, citizenship, and advocacy.

Makayla Archer
First-year, archermg@miamioh.edu
Majors: Human Capital Management and Leadership and Environmental Sciences
Hometown: Hudson, OH 44236
Campus Involvement:

• Member of the Multicultural Business Association
• Member of the Bridges Scholars Diversity and Inclusion Program
• Member of My Miami, My Place
• Pledge for Delta Sigma Pi Business Fraternity

Why Miami: Interested in a business major, I was conflicted between two schools. After
attending the Bridges program that Miami offers for students of diverse backgrounds, I was set on attending. That along with a generous amount of academic scholarship, Miami was my place to be. Continuing to prove it was the right decision with limitless networking opportunities, personal and interpersonal development, and rigorous coursework.

U.S. Congressional Member: David P. Joyce
Ohio Senator: Kristina D. Roegner
Ohio House Member: Casey Weinstein

Vada Stephens
First-year, stepheva@miamioh.edu
Majors: English Professional Writing and Voice Performance
Hometown: Fairfield, Ohio 45014
Campus Involvement:

• Member of Miami University Associated Student Government
• Member of Miami University Chamber Singers
• Member of Miami University Gospel Singers
• Member of Multicultural Business Association
• Member of Miami University Bridges Scholars and Student Ambassador

Why Miami: Miami University immediately felt like home and that was something I realized I couldn’t compromise. The opportunities and existing connections with successful alumni were notable attractions for me. And it was through Miami that I received internships and experiential learning opportunities this spring and summer. A sense of unity and community outreach were also striking elements to me do to a high degree of importance placed upon service. I also would be remiss if I didn’t mention that the whole audition process for music majors can be intimidating, but Miami was very inviting, accepting, and provided me with scholarships.

U.S. Congressional Member: Steve Chabot
Ohio Senator: William P. Coley II
Ohio House Member: George F Lang

Carmen Stone
Senior, stoneca4@miamioh.edu
Major: Biology, Premedical Studies      Minor: Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Hometown: Westerville, OH 43081
Campus Involvement:

• Resident Assistant at Hamilton Hall
• Member of Miami University Gospel Singers
• Member of Phi Delta Epsilon Premedical Fraternity

Why Miami: My parents suggested I look into Miami University because they knew it had an excellent reputation for producing well-educated, well-prepared college graduates. After
visiting several times and participating in the Bridges Program, I was impressed by the more than 600 student-run clubs and organizations, the opportunities for undergraduate research, and the interest the professors I met with seemed to show in their students’ learning. Miami also offered me the strongest financial incentives of any of the schools I was accepted to, and when it came time to decide where I would enroll, the scholarships I was offered from Miami were what sealed the deal for me.

U.S. Congressional Member: Troy Balderson
Ohio Senator: Tina Maharath
Ohio House Member: Mary Lightbody

2019 Government Relations Network Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference

Over spring break, 65 Miami University students and Miami University’s President will participate in the Government Relations Network Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference. During the Conference, students will meet with members of the Ohio Congressional Delegation and members of the Ohio General Assembly. In these meetings, students will advocate for higher education and Miami University by sharing their own Miami experiences with members and staff. Students will present to members and staff undergraduate research and experiential learning opportunities that they have engaged in at two poster sessions, one on Capitol Hill and the other at the Ohio Statehouse. Students will also hear from state and federal policymakers on leadership, citizenship, and advocacy.

Hannah B. Specogna
Junior, specoghb@miamioh.edu
Major: Diplomacy & Global Politics      Minor: Italian
Hometown: Massillon, OH 44646
Campus Involvement:

•  Co-Chair of Inter-Chapter Relations and Member of Phi Sigma Pi
• Member of College Democrats
• Member of Model Arab League
• Member of Model United Nations

Why Miami: Miami University opens doors I did not know where even possible, the experiences that I have had while studying at Miami will live lasting impacts. At Miami, there are programs and organizations that provide many opportunities for networking, community involvement, and overall professional and academic growth. Miami University effectively prepares students to enter the job market in addition to providing memories that last a lifetime.

U.S. Congressional Member: Anthony Gonzalez
Ohio Senator: Kirk Schuring
Ohio House Member: Scott Oelslager

Rukmini (Ruku) Pal
First-year, palr3@miamioh.edu
Major: Business Economics, Entrepreneurship     Minors: Political Science, Global Health
Hometown: West Chester, OH 45069
Campus Involvement:

• Member of Business Student Advisory Council
• Member of Honors Student Advisory Board
• Member of Multicultural Business Association
• Member of Miami University’s Chapter of Active Minds
• Member of Women in Social Entrepreneurship
• Member of Government Relations Network
• Goalie on Intramural Broomball Team

Why Miami: Miami provided the flexibility to combine different interests across areas and still graduate in four years. As a student with incredibly diverse interests, the opportunity to pursue numerous passions at once, combined with the home-like atmosphere, made Miami University the obvious choice.

U.S. Congressional Member: Warren Davidson
Ohio Senator: William P. Coley, II
Ohio House Member: George F. Lang

Matthew Stanonis
Sophomore, stanonmj@miamioh.edu
Major: Political Science, International Studies, Russian, East European, and Eurasian Studies
Hometown: Chagrin Falls, Ohio 44023
Campus Involvement:

• President, Lithuania Club
• Director of Communications, Miami University College Republicans
• Dawisha Fellow, Havighurst Center for Russian and Post-Soviet Studies
• Member, Miami Students for Life
• Member, Thursday Night Bible Study, St. Mary Catholic Church
• Member, Racquetball Club

Why Miami: I have always been fascinated by the study of politics and Russia. Miami University provides a top-notch political science department, an accomplished faculty, a unique and strong Russian program, and the scholarship necessary to attend college here. Miami University has also carefully cultivated an excellent, academic on-campus culture that both interests and challenges me and has enabled me to network with accomplished individuals from across the world and engage in amazing opportunities.

U.S. Congressional Member: Dave Joyce
Ohio Senator: John Eklund
Ohio House Member: Sarah LaTourette

2019 Government Relations Network Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference

Over spring break, 65 Miami University students and Miami University’s President will participate in the Government Relations Network Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference. During the Conference, students will meet with members of the Ohio Congressional Delegation and members of the Ohio General Assembly. In these meetings, students will advocate for higher education and Miami University by sharing their own Miami experiences with members and staff. Students will present to members and staff undergraduate research and experiential learning opportunities that they have engaged in at two poster sessions, one on Capitol Hill and the other at the Ohio Statehouse. Students will also hear from state and federal policymakers on leadership, citizenship, and advocacy.

Here’s a look at a few of our participants.

Alexia Wing
First-year, wingan@miamioh.edu
Major: Early Childhood Education
Hometown: Lancaster, Ohio 43130
Campus Involvement:

• Government Relations Network
• Miami University College Republicans
• Faith and Fitness
• Miami University Pep Band

Why Miami: I chose Miami because of its academic reputation and the way I felt when visiting the campus. Advisors, Professors, and Staff all treat me like an individual, despite the large number of students on campus.

U.S. Congressional Member: Steve Stivers
Ohio Senator: Brian Hill
Ohio House Member: Tim Schaffer

Jasmine Spencer
Senior, spencej9@miamioh.edu
Major: Marking and Interactive Media Studies      Minor: Writing
Hometown: Dayton, OH 45458
Campus Involvement:

• National Association of Black Accountants
• Alpha Phi Omega
• Dreamkeepers Mentor with Cincinnati Public Schools

Why Miami: I chose Miami University because of the outstanding reputation of the Farmer School of Business and because it offers unique opportunities for undergraduate students to study abroad and conduct research. When I visited campus, I immediately felt comfortable
and knew that I could grow personally and professionally with the support of dedicated faculty.

U.S. Congressional Member: Mike Turner
Ohio Senator: Peggy Lehner
Ohio House Member: Jim Butler

Caitlyn Picard
Sophomore, picardct@miamioh.edu
Major: Kinesiology      Minors: Human Capital Management and Leadership
Hometown: New Baden, IL 62265 (St. Louis area)
Campus Involvement:

• Secretary of Delta Epsilon Mu Pre-health fraternity, Phi Chapter
• Liaison for Delta Epsilon Mu on the Professional Fraternity Council
• President of the Theta Class of Delta Epsilon Mu, Phi Chapter
• Student Brand Ambassador for Kaplan Test Prep at Miami University
• Circulation Desk employee at King Library

Why Miami: I originally came to Miami when I was 13 years old for the girl’s Miami School of
Hockey. At the time, I wasn’t really thinking about college, but a few years later I came back to coach the overnight summer camp, and haven’t left the campus since. I have had so many incredible opportunities since joining the Miami family, and I could not be happier with my decision to make this my home for four years.

U.S. Congressional Member: John Shimkus

2019 Government Relations Network Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference

Over spring break, 65 Miami University students and Miami University’s President will participate in the Government Relations Network Alternative Spring Break Advocacy and Leadership Conference. During the Conference, students will meet with members of the Ohio Congressional Delegation and members of the Ohio General Assembly. In these meetings, students will advocate for higher education and Miami University by sharing their own Miami experiences with members and staff. Students will present to members and staff undergraduate research and experiential learning opportunities that they have engaged in at two poster sessions, one on Capitol Hill and the other at the Ohio Statehouse. Students will also hear from state and federal policymakers on leadership, citizenship, and advocacy.

Here’s a look at a few of our participants.

Brandon Rice
Senior, ricebd@miamioh.edu
Major: Political Science      Minors: Statistical Methods
Hometown: Avon, OH 44011
Campus Involvement:

• Member of Miami University Marching Band
• Member of Miami University College Democrats
• Member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity (Alpha Theta Chapter)
• Member of Miami University Athletic Bands
• Member of Miami University Steel Band

Why Miami: I loved the programs inside of Miami, including our political science department here. From this instance, I decided to choose Miami because of my opportunity to rejoin the
camaraderie I found in high school that was my school’s marching band.

U.S. Congressional Member: Bob Gibbs
Ohio Senator: Nathan Manning
Ohio House Member: Dick Stein

Kristin Mallory
Junior, mallorka@miamioh.edu
Major: Civic & Regional Development
Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio 45231
Campus Involvement:

• Member of TRiO Support Services
• Member of Miami Regional Empowerment for Determined (RED) Women
• Member of Miami University Hamilton International Club

Why Miami: I chose Miami for its reputation, affordability, and proximity to home but I stayed because of the relationships that I have fostered. Being at Miami Regionals has
not only afforded me the opportunity to pursue my passion but has given me access to many opportunities related to my interests. I have also made some lasting friendships with peers, professors, and staff members.

U.S. Congressional Member: Brad R. Wenstrup
Ohio Senator: Cecil Thomas
Ohio House Member: Sedrick Denson

Aaron Kofsky
Senior, kofskyaj@miamioh.edu
Majors: Political Science and American Studies
Hometown: Akron, OH 44333
Campus Involvement:

• Recruitment Chairman and Member of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity
• Steering Committee Member of the JANUS Forum
• Undergraduate Research and Teaching Associate, Department of American Studies, Dr. Helen Sheumaker

Why Miami: Miami’s Political Science department and their focus on practical and regional governmental skills is what initially attracted me to Miami, but I soon found a home in Miami. I joined my fraternity, Pi Kappa Alpha, and rose to be on our executive board. Beyond that, Miami has afforded me amazing opportunities including interning in Columbus and D.C., conducting Civil War veteran research on campus, and incredible networking across Miami’s alumni base.

U.S. Congressional Member: Marcia L. Fudge
Ohio Senator: Kristina Roegner
Ohio House Member: Bill Roemer