DC Trip Provides Inside Look at Congress and Conservation

Kiki Holmes and Jake Smith, freshmen in this semester’s American Government class taught by Political Science Professor John Williams (C’76), traveled to Washington, DC, in April for two intensive days on Capitol Hill. The trip offered opportunities to see Congress in action, attend meetings with senators and congressional staff, and even participate in lobbying activities supporting land conservation.

Williams, who is president of the Great Rivers Land Trust, timed the trip to coincide with an annual spring meeting of professionals and volunteers from Land Trust Alliance, a national coalition that includes Great Rivers. This was the second time he’s brought students to Washington, DC. “Great Rivers has become known as the land trust that involves students,” Williams says. “This year, our students watched and participated in lobbying firsthand.” As Williams points out, protecting natural lands is popular in both political parties. The key, he explains, “is to know your audience. Some people want to save the family farm. Others want wetlands for duck hunting. Some hope to protect pristine forests from development.” 

Students observed and even practiced targeting the conservation message to different audiences during meetings with Democrats and Republicans. In all, they participated in eight meetings, including with the senior staff of Senators Dick Durbin (D-Illinois) and Roy Blunt (R-Missouri). In between face-to-face meetings with congressional staff, students attended workshops and receptions that included senators from across the country. “The trip, sponsored by Principia’s Experiential Learning Fund, was an excellent opportunity to hear from politicians on both sides of the aisle, and to see that there are a lot of good, committed, qualified people working on Capitol Hill,” Williams comments. 

For Jake, a political science major, a highlight was networking at the events. “Congressional aids encouraged Kiki and me to contact them when applying for internships,” he says. “I’m very grateful for this opportunity Principia provided that is related to my major.”