On November 15, 2023, over 30 MPP and Next Gen Leadership Academy students visited Harrisburg for the School of Public Policy Career Day. During the visit, students were able to tour the Capitol, visit the Senate Gallery during a debate on education funding, and meet with legislative staff. Adding the excitement was the day’s voting topic: the Penn State budget.

Due to the large number of students in attendance, the trip was divided into two groups. The first group met with legislative staff and Penn State Government Affairs leaders while the second group spent time with Senator Nick Miller’s staff. The importance of the day’s budge vote took precedence over our visit, so many of the legislators scheduled to meet with the students were needed on the floor.  This unexpected change allowed our students to see important work in action, as both chambers were engaged in the vote.

The afternoon led our students to the State Museum of Pennsylvania for lunch, panels, and group networking sessions. The Panels gave Policy Professionals an opportunity to offer advice and direction to the students. The networking sessions allowed students to connect with the Policy Professionals while asking professional advice about the policy space. Panels and networking sessions featured:

• Nolan Ritchie, Executive Director of the Senate Transportation Committee
• Lisa Graybeal, Deputy Secretary for Animal Health and Food Safety
• Norman Bristol Colon, Commonwealth Chief Diversity Officer
• Karn of the Insurance Federation of PA
• Sheilah Borne, AVP of Penn State Health Government Affairs
• Chris Donahue, Legislative Counsel to the Senate Majority Leader
• Daniel Hartman, City of Harrisburg Business Administrator
• Andrew LaFrette, Deputy Policy Director, Department of State
• Jayanne Newcaster, Managing Director, Deloitte
• Michael Pipe, Governor’s Deputy Chief of Staff for Public Safety
• Marty Santalucia, Founder/Principal, MFStrategies
• Madison Stromswold, Senior Associate, Greenlee Partners

The School of Public Policy would like to thank Margaret Gray for providing a connection to Michael Pipe, as well as Sam Loewner for providing a connection to Jayanne Newcaster. The two guests were able to provide invaluable insight for the students.