Overview
Each year a Pennsylvania state legislator is appointed as IUP’s legislative fellow to serve for the Fall and Spring semesters. The legislator serves as a guest speaker in classrooms, meets formally and informally with students, faculty, and staff, and participates in other campus activities.
History
IUP's Legislative Fellow Program was begun in 1998 from the efforts of IUP's APSCUF office. Dale Landon, president of APSCUF at the time, brought the idea to fruition with the help of IUP administration. IUP was the second university in the State System of Higher Education to begin this program; Millersville was the first.
Purpose
The purpose of the Legislative Fellow Program is to give legislators the opportunity to share their expertise with students, faculty, and staff. It is believed that on-campus contact will result in greater understanding of the roles each plays in higher education. This will also give the legislator a chance to hear from the students and learn what issues are on their minds.
Guidelines for Selection
IUP’s legislative fellow must meet the following guidelines to qualify for selection:
- Must have a demonstrated record of service to their community and to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
- Must posses knowledge and expertise that would enhance the educational mission of IUP.
- Must be a current member of the state House of Representatives or the state Senate.
- In addition, the selection process will be bipartisan and will favor those legislators whose districts are in Western Pennsylvania.
Previous Fellows
Friend of Higher Education Award
As part of the Legislative Fellow Program, the Friend of Higher Education Award is given each year to a past or present member of the Pennsylvania Legislature who has had a positive influence on higher education in Pennsylvania. Past winners of the award are
