ECC's Center for Civic Engagement welcomes elected officials for 'Women in Politics' event
Elgin Community College's new Center for Civic Engagement mission is to foster engaged civic leaders on campus and create a culture of civic engagement in the community.
On Tuesday, Sept. 19, the center is hosting its first event, "Women in Politics," at ECC's Spartan Drive campus. This two-part event includes a public panel titled "Power, Passion, & Policy," and a student-only reception with state Rep. Nabeela Syed from the 51st District.
"As a woman interested in public policy, having these legislators come to share their experience and stories is an incredible opportunity that I know will motivate many students to keep working hard to achieve their goals," said Dayana Bagdo, ECC student and CCE Civic Leader.
She and other student civic leaders spent the summer organizing both events alongside the center co-directors LaTasha DeHaan, Ph.D., assistant professor of political science, and Antonio Ramirez, Ph.D., associate professor of history.
"This kickoff event will showcase how the CCE will serve as a regional hub for political education and democratic discussion," Ramirez said. "We're proud to host this panel of distinguished state legislators to explore the most thought-provoking questions around gender and politics today."
DeHaan will moderate the "Women in Politics" panel, which runs from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. in Building B, Jobe Lounge on the campus, 1700 Spartan Drive.
Panelists include state Senators Cristina Castro, Linda Holmes, and Laura Murphy, and state Representatives Maura Hirachauer, Anna Moeller, Michelle Mussman, and Suzanne Ness.
They will share more about how female legislators are shaping the future of Illinois. During the event, attendees will have the opportunity to submit questions for the panel.
Following the panel discussion, Syed, the youngest member of the Illinois General Assembly, will meet with ECC students.
"Her unique background and her age make her an important role model for our students," Ramirez said. Pre-registration is required for this student-only event.
Learn more about the Center for Civic Engagement at elgin.edu/civic.