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4/3/26
At the Universities at Shady Grove, preparing for a meaningful career extends beyond the classroom to opportunities to develop skills for civic engagement and professional growth. This aligns with the University System of Maryland’s Civic Education and Civic Engagement initiative, which emphasizes nurturing students’ ability to use their influence, expertise, and activism to advance the public good.
Join USG’s Changemakers initiative to learn from Montgomery County leaders who have driven change through advocacy, then participate in candidate forums for Montgomery County Executive to engage with issues that matter to you as a voter.
Advocacy Workshop
Influence with Intention
On Saturday, April 18, 2026, The Universities at Shady Grove will host an engaging, half-day workshop focused on empowering participants to be informed and effective changemakers. This program blends hands-on learning, expert mentorship, and real-world advocacy practice. Participants will 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 focuses on advocacy strategy and civic impact across all disciplines.
Understanding Advocacy
P.J. Hogan
Former MD State Senator
Former Principal, Cornerstone Government Affairs
USG Board of Advisors Member
Effective Advocacy Skills
Lauren Edelstein, PhD
University of Maryland
Deptartment of Communication
Health Policy & Management
Gabe Albornoz,
Director, Montgomery County Recreation Department
Former Montgomery County Councilmember At-Large
Advocacy in Practice
Craig Rice
CEO of Manna Food Center
Former Montgomery County Councilmember
Visit the event page for more details and to register.
Montgomery County Executive Candidate Forums
Advocacy In Action
Workshop attendees, as well as students, faculty, staff and community members are invited to attend the Montgomery County Executive Candidate forums on April 28, 2026 (Democratic candidates) and May 5, 2026 (Republican candidates) to witness Advocacy In Action. Registrants will engage in civic dialogue and hear from candidates about issues of impact. These forums are co-hosted with the Montgomery County Maryland League of Women Voters. Learn more and register to attend here.