Provost, students visit Iowa Legislature
Monday / February 1, 2016
Pictured at the Capitol are, back row: Dr. Martin Reimer, Terry Martin and Carlin Whelpley; front row, Kelbey Barbadillo and Marcus Thompson.
Representatives from the Ellsworth Community College Student Senate accompanied ECC Provost Dr. Martin Reimer to the IACCT 28th Annual Student Legislative Seminar in Des Moines last week. ECC Student Senate representatives included Kelbey Barbadillo, Terry Martin, Marcus Thompson and Carlin Whelpley.
The four ECC senators were among 250 students from the 15 Iowa community colleges who learned how to advocate for more support in state funding from Iowa’s legislative members. Our students attended a variety of workshops focused on leadership qualities and the personal skills necessary to participate in governance and be successful in a career. They also learned about the “No Labels: A New Route to Political Solutions” initiative.
The ECC students met all seven of the legislators who represent Iowa Valley Community College District. A tour of the Statehouse provided by Representative Pat Grassley included a trip to the top of the Capitol Rotunda. Representative Mark Smith showcased his private office, and students learned that Senator Brad Zaun (R-Urbandale) had attended ECC and was an outstanding wrestler as a student. Tours also included the office of Lt. Governor Kim Reynolds, and the students were allowed to sit in her chair.
Dr. Chris Duree, IVCCD Chancellor, and Yvonne Mallory, IVCCD Board Chairperson, also participated in the IACCT Student Legislative Seminar.