URBANA, Ill. — A career in the public sector is about meeting the dynamic needs of Illinois’ diverse populations. The Illini Science Policy Program, administered by University of Illinois Extension, matches advanced-degree graduates from University of Illinois System institutions with hosts in state agencies and legislative offices. ISPP Scholars work on various projects, building their leadership and policy-research skills throughout their year-long placements. Program participants fully engage in the work of their host office, receive support through mentoring, training, and networking events, and establish professional connections across multiple agencies and stakeholders.
ISPP Scholars Drake Materre, hosted by Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus and Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus Foundation, and Angelique Evans, hosted by Illinois Legislative Black Caucus and Black Caucus Foundation, will speak to their experiences as part of a panel discussion titled “Bridging Black and Latinx Students to Policy,” which will be presented at the 2024 Black & Latinx Summit held at the I-Hotel and Conference Center on Saturday, Feb. 24. The scholars will be joined by ISPP Program Director Evangeline S. Pianfetti and Illinois Extension’s Assistant Dean for Integrated Health Disparities Programs Dr. Margarita Teran-Garcia in the Knowledge Room for the 11:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. session. Attendees are encouraged to register in advance for the BLS Summit, which begins at 9 a.m., and then check-in outside of the Illinois Ballroom.
More About the 2024 Black & Latinx Summit
BLS is an annual cost-free summit that seeks to bring students, staff, faculty, and community members from all intersections into a shared space that fosters learning and connection. Bruce D. Nesbitt African American Cultural Center and La Casa Cultural Latina host the summit. Register today for an impactful day of workshops, keynote addresses, panels, and networking that center on equity, solidarity, empowerment, and community. This year’s summit on Saturday, Feb. 24, runs from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is being held at the I-Hotel and Conference Center, 1900 S First Street in Champaign
SOURCE: Drake Materre, ISPP Scholar with Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus Foundation
WRITER: Dolan Klein, sr. manager for marketing and communications, dolank@illinois.edu
Illinois Extension leads public outreach for University of Illinois by translating research into action plans that allow Illinois families, businesses, and community leaders to solve problems, make informed decisions, and adapt to changes and opportunities. Illinois Extension is part of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences.