On February 16, 2024, a group comprising 40 student leaders from the Institute for Training and Development (ITD) and the University of Arizona met with Congressman McGovern at the Capitol Visitor Center. These students, originating from eight different Latin American countries, were participants in the Study of the U.S. Institute (SUSI) program administered by ITD and sponsored by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. State Department.
During the meeting, the students discussed a range of topics with Congressman McGovern. They noted the Congressman’s thorough and direct responses to their questions, which covered various aspects of political engagement and legislative processes. This interaction was highlighted as an unusual opportunity compared to the political experiences available in their home countries.
As a result of the meeting the students received information on the current issues facing Congress, the challenges and opportunities of the upcoming presidential election, and the role of young leaders in the political landscape. This visit succeeded in providing the students with insights into the workings of the U.S. legislative branch and the broader context of U.S. democracy. Following the discussion, the group took a tour of the Capitol.
The meeting with Congressman McGovern and the subsequent tour were organized as part of the SUSI program’s objectives to offer participants direct experiences with U.S. governmental processes. The program, sponsored by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), seeks to enhance participants’ understanding of U.S. society, culture, and politics.
The collaboration between ITD and the University of Arizona for this event underscores the commitment to providing educational exchanges that broaden students’ perspectives on governance and civic engagement. The organizers expressed appreciation for Congressman McGovern’s willingness to meet with the students and for his contributions to the success of the program. They look forward to future opportunities for similar interactions.
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