ISU to help more women get involved in politics, leadership

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Story Published: Dec 4, 2009 at 9:48 PM MDT

Story Updated: Dec 4, 2009 at 9:59 PM MDT

By Wes Horrocks

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POCATELLO - More women may soon be getting involved in politics in Pocatello thanks to a new program coming to Idaho State University.

ISU is one of only 10 universities across the country to be a Campaign College site next year.

That means women will have a unique opportunity to learn from student, and community leaders.

Women are usually underrepresented when it comes to serving in student and local governments. Gena Cook, an ISU Biology Freshman said, "They should be equally represented."

And when Gena Cook learned there was a program that could help with that, she became very interested.

She helped write the grant to get the program. Cook said, "It seems like it would be overwhelming so we're going to try to be really honest with what is involved in running."

The Janet C. Anderson Gender Resource Center will host the program on February 19.

They'll be bringing in local leaders, past student government representatives, and other women to teach what it takes to get involved. Dr. Rebecca Morrow, Janet C. Anderson Gender Resource Center Director said, "It really will allow women at ISU to practice their skills in running for office. If they are successful it will give them great experience as student government leaders."

The all-day conference is open primarily to ISU students, along with some area high school students.

They'll learn how to speak confidently, and how to mobilize a constituency. "It would be cool to see women get more involved in leading," said Cook.

The hope is that even if they don't run for office they'll learn beneficial skills. Morrow said, "I think those leadership skills are really valuable to have, and to apply in whatever career they decide to pursue."

The Campaign College is sponsored by the American Association of University Women.

To apply for the program contact the Janet C. Anderson Gender Resource Center 282-2805.

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