John R. Hargreaves Distinguished Legislative Fellow Program

What?
The John R. Hargreaves Distinguished Legislative Fellow Program is a program, unique in the state of Maryland, which provides an opportunity for a distinguished member of the Maryland General Assembly to engage, students at Salisbury University in practical, civic education about the nature of representative democracy and the benefits and burdens of public life over the course of a year. [ Current and Previous Recipients ]

Why?
It has been well documented that college students today are often apathetic, if not downright cynical, about the political system.  It is our belief that such negativity is in part due to those images presented to them about politics and politicians rather than actual direct contact with their fellow citizens who have been elected and entrusted with the public good.  In addition, we believe that the actual processes of legislative politics---the give and take that is part of any deliberative activity---are rather poorly understood by students.

In view of these discomfiting facts, it will be the purpose of the John R. Hargreaves Distinguished Legislative Fellow Program to foster a dialogue and closer contact between students and legislators with the goal of creating, on the part of students, a better appreciation for the complexities and rewards of legislative life and, on the part of the legislator, a better understanding of the concerns and issues that motivate young people today.  The program will also serve as a way of recognizing and honoring those outstanding legislators who often are too little appreciated for the time and effort they spend on behalf of their fellow citizens.

How?
The President of Salisbury University, with the advice and consent of the board of directors of PACE and the Salisbury University Maryland legislative interns, will choose an honoree who has a record of legislative accomplishment and commitment to and willingness to teach the benefits of public service. The Fellow will give a formal presentation to the university and surrounding community and will be involved in additional meetings with students both in Salisbury and in Annapolis.  Scheduling will accommodate the legislator’s own schedule.

When?
The program began in the 2001 - 2002 academic year and the first Fellow was announced during the Fall, 2001. The program will operate annually.

Funding?
Funding for the program has been made possible by the John R. Hargreaves Memorial Fund. Delegate Hargreaves was a distinguished Maryland representative from Caroline County. Upon his death, a fund was established in his name at Salisbury University.