School of Public Policy Launches Beacon Hill Project

Marty Meehan
President Marty Meehan

The School of Public Policy (SPP) launches its Beacon Hill Project on Friday, Sept. 21 with a daylong program at the UMass Club in Boston that includes an address from UMass President Marty Meehan and panel discussions on the topic “Making Your Voice Heard: How Advocacy Groups Contribute to Policymaking.”

SPP’s Beacon Hill Project brings students on monthly trips to Boston where they meet with legislators, government officials and advocacy groups and gain an inside look at the policymaking process.

“Our master of public policy and master of public policy and administration programs prepare students for success in public service,” said SPP director Al Roberts. “Connecting students with policymakers is a critical part of that preparation.”

The Sept. 21 program will include guest speakers from prominent public policy think tanks and advocacy organizations for panels on effective government relations, economic development policy and the role of independent research organizations.

In October, the Beacon Hill Project will visit UMass Boston for panel discussions on women in government. Future trips will look at the budget process, municipal government, the federal government and other policy areas.