Influence With Intention
Part of the USG Changemakers | Civic Engagement series, this workshop will empower participants to be informed and effective changemakers. This flagship program blends hands-on learning, expert mentorship, and real-world advocacy practice. Participants develop essential career and civic skills—public speaking, coalition-building, policy understanding, and ethical leadership—while applying these competencies to real issues identified through participant input. The program is strictly non-partisan, focusing on advocacy strategy and civic impact across all disciplines. Students gain career-ready experience and professional network connections.
Free for USG faculty, staff, students at USG & community college students | $20 for others
Sessions Include:
Understanding Advocacy led by P.J. Hogan, Former MD State Senator; Former Principal, Cornerstone Government Affairs
Effective Advocacy Skills led by Lauren Edelstein, PhD, University of Maryland, Dept. of Communication, Health Policy & Management
and Gabe Albornoz, Director, Montgomery County Recreation Department, Former Councilmember At-Large
Advocacy in Practice led by Craig Rice, CEO of Manna Food Center and Former Montgomery County Councilmember
Engage in real-time advocacy at the Changemakers: Montgomery County Executive Candidate Forums happening at the Universities at Shady Grove on April 28, 2026 (Democratic candidates) and May 5, 2026 (Republican candidates). Students, faculty and staff from USG are encouraged to attend.