Retired Canadian entrepreneur Craig Copland, the Leadership Institute's graduate of the week, created tools for conservatives involved in the public policy process after attending LI's Campaign Management School in December 2010. “The programs offered by the Leadership Institute are by far the most cost-effective and time-effective ways of learning how to be a conservative activist,” Craig said. “The Campaign Management School was an exceptional program that provided quantity and quality of useful information, expert and inspirational instruction, and supportive and convivial interaction with fellow conservatives. And it was a lot of fun.” “My week at LI changed my life,” Craig said. “This is no mean feat when one is over sixty. I realized that while I had no interest in personally running for elected office, I could actually do something significant that might help other conservatives win elections. I perceived two needs in the conservative movement that I could respond to: 1) A simple handbook that laid out what you had to do and not do to win elections; and 2) A way of using the Internet so that conservatives could share with each other their stories and lessons learned about election campaigns.” And less than a year later, Craig has done just this. “I work on projects that will, I hope, help advance conservatism in Canada and the U.S.,” Craig said. “In addition to the 2012 Conservative Election Handbook and the ConservaWiki.com site, I have just started a Conservative Buyers Club that will serve as a fundraising tool for conservative organizations, churches, and political campaigns while saving individual conservatives hundreds, perhaps even, thousands of dollars.” “We cannot afford to ‘re-invent the wheel' during every election campaign. Conservatives must learn from each other if we want to win consistently. The Leadership Institute has been foundational in this process,” Craig said. “We, the privileged graduates of LI, must expand and share the lessons learned not only directly in our local communities, but also through the limitless resources of the Internet, a medium which we must confess the liberals have been much better at making effective use of than we have . . . so far,” Craig continued. You would think Craig was a life-long grassroots conservative. However, it took him working in five developing countries caught up in major crises before Craig came to understand that government isn't the solution—it is the problem. Born and raised in Toronto, Craig says, “Whatever I may be today is primarily due to the influence of a loving, conservative, Christian family and a very conservative local church and Christian summer camp.” Although he grew up in a Christian family with conservative political views, he strayed in graduate school. “I admit to having voted for the Canadian socialist party when I was a grad student. As a young man,” Craig said, “I was an ardent liberal do-gooder and extensively involved in the early days of the environmental movement.” After graduate school, Craig spent more than 20 years travelling the world, working in international development, child care, and humanitarian aid. He assisted with aid programs during the Ethiopian famine of the mid-1980s, the civil war in Sri Lanka, the disasters of Somalia and Rwanda, and the innumerable miseries that affected Haiti. “It was during this period of my life that I was ‘mugged by reality' and came to understand that ‘Government is not the solution to the problem. Government is the problem.' Slowly, perhaps even reluctantly, I turned right,” Craig explained. “Since then I have become quite involved in conservative politics as a volunteer and consultant for election campaigns and conservative organizations,” Craig said. When not working at his consulting and marketing firm, Craig spends time as a volunteer for charities—Habitat for Humanity International and the American Foundation for Children with AIDS, to name a few—that are active in Eastern Europe and Africa. Craig also enjoys spending time with his three daughters and three “gorgeous and perfect grandchildren.” Craig, a believer in free markets, desires to expand the conservative base by electing more to office. “Except for a very few rare anomalies, all senior elected officials in America began their political careers down ballot,” Craig reports. “If we want to conserve America, in depth and breadth, we cannot do it by winning only one, big elected office. We need to win 600,000 elections.” His creations—the ConservaWiki.com and the 2012 Conservative Election Handbook—are a pursuit toward this goal. “Neither of these accomplishments is perfect or anywhere close, and no doubt they will be improved on by others more capable than I,” Craig says, “but these were two things I could do to help, now.” You too can make a splash for the conservative movement. Come get Leadership Institute training like Craig. Check out the full schedule of LI's upcoming trainings. To nominate a Leadership Institute graduate you know to be featured as LI's graduate of the week, please contact LI's External Affairs Officer Lauren Hart at LaurenHart@LeadershipInstitute.org.

Yesterday 72 conservatives filled the Leadership Institute's Steven P.J. Wood Building to hear Rep. Tim Huelskamp (KS-01) speak at the monthly Wednesday Wake-Up Club Breakfast.“I want to thank you Morton for your leadership and helping train folks like myself,” said Rep. Huelskamp. “I've spent many an hour at an LI workshop, receiving the training. It is a distinct honor to be here this morning.”Fired up by recent news that the Department of Health and Human Services will have access to Americans' medical records, Rep. Huelskamp gave an impassioned plea for conservatives to take action in Congress.“It is taking the language of the left—taking the strategies and the technology and going out and convincing folks that we have the answers. It is our conservative principles that are going to win the day. But we're not going to win by hiding,” Rep. Huelskamp told the audience.He argued for Congress to promote conservative principles, not put off policy battles until a more favorable election.“[My colleagues say] ‘wait until 2013, we'll have the House, the Senate and the President.' But what if we don't get 60 votes in the Senate? Then we end up putting it off until 2015. ...but the only cuts that count are the ones you do now,” said Rep. Huelskamp.While discussing procrastination regarding budgetary issues, he noted: “Just because we're not fighting, doesn't mean we're not losing. If you're not fighting, they're adding trillions to the debt.”“There is a lack of urgency in Washington,” Rep. Huelskamp said in a call for more action and backbone from political leaders. “Just do what you say you're going to do.”“The idea that a young man—a kid out from the middle of nowhere—can end up in Washington, D.C. representing a Congressional district, that's pretty amazing.”You too can do great things with the right training.Check out the full schedule of LI's upcoming schools. The next Wake-Up Club Breakfast, scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 2, will feature Dr. Matthew Spalding, distinguished author and director of the B. Kenneth Simon Center for American Studies at The Heritage Foundation. For more information and to RSVP, please go here. >

For many, Leadership Institute training marks the start of a lifelong career advancing conservative principles in politics. So it is for Jim Pfaff, chief of staff for Congressman Tim Huelskamp and LI graduate of the week. Jim's political career stretches nearly three decades. He's been president of grassroots organizations, led winning statewide campaigns, served as a campaign manager and consultant, and even worked as a talk radio host. “LI has produced an amazing list of graduates like me who have gone on to have a great impact on the national and state levels,” Jim said. His first Leadership Institute training was in 1984. Jim was an English major and political science minor at Indiana University after graduating high school from The Webb School in Bell Buckle, Tennessee. It was a “one-week grassroots training,” Jim recalled. In that same year, he interned at LI, and worked with Ralph Reed to start Students for America, a pro-life political action committee. “My LI training experience in 1984 was a fundamental part of my political career, which includes various statewide campaigns, public policy efforts, a political consulting business for nearly 20 years, and ultimately my coming to Congress this year as a Chief of Staff,” Jim said. As a campaign consultant, Jim helped elect eight conservative candidates and later managed George Witwer's 1996 campaign for Lt. Governor of Indiana. He also served as administrative director for the Opportunity Project of Indiana, which gave $90,000 to fiscally conservative candidates for state legislature in 1994. In the private sector, Jim served as president and chief executive officer at Innovative Research and Data Solutions, LLC (IRDS) for 13 years. The company's work matched his background, offering consulting in public policy and public relations; business research; media strategies; and even on-the-ground consulting for political campaigns and grassroots organizations. In 2005, Jim managed a highly successful conservative grassroots effort in Kansas to pass a traditional marriage amendment -- which received 70% of the vote. He worked for Focus on the Family Action and started several organizations: Colorado Family Action; the Colorado Family Institute; and Americans for Prosperity's Colorado state chapter in 2008. He also led a successful effort to pass a similar marriage amendment in Colorado though outspent nearly six to one by opponents. Jim's work garnered praise from Erick Erickson of RedState, who called him a "nearly indespensable person in social conservative grassroots politics." Social conservative leader Ralph Reed said Jim was "one of the greatest grassroots organizers in the country." Jim still finds time to teach lessons he once learned at the Leadership Institute to conservatives across the country. He's been a faculty member at 12 LI campaign, fundraising, and communications trainings, from the Institute's Steven P.J. Wood Building in Arlington, Virginia to Grand Forks, North Dakota. "As an LI trainer, I could do nothing less," Jim explained. "I decided to dedicate some of my time to help with LI trainings because I believe they fill an important need in the conservative movement to prepare effective grassroots, media, and campaign strategists." Please congratulate Jim Pfaff as this week' Leadership Institute graduate of the week. Jim is the chief of staff for Congressman Tim Huelskamp, who will speak at LI's Wednesday Wake-Up Club Breakfast on October 5. Please join conservatives and Institute supporters for breakfast with Congressman Huelskamp. To nominate a Leadership Institute graduate you know to be featured as LI's graduate of the week, please contact LI's External Affairs Officer Lauren Hart at LaurenHart@LeadershipInstitute.org.

September 30, 2011, Arlington, VA--The Leadership Institute is excited to introduce four new staff who come from different backgrounds, but who are all eager to contribute to LI's mission and growing the conservative movement.Oliver Darcy brings a fresh perspective to the Leadership Institute's Campus Leadership Program (CLP). Darcy is the new regional field coordinator for the Mid-West region, which includes MN, ND, SD, NE, KS, IA and MO. Before arriving at LI, Darcy interned with Congressman Jeff Denham, worked as a systems support coordinator in the health industry, and volunteered on numerous political campaigns.At LI, his duties include working to establish conservative activist groups on college campuses. When asked why he wanted to work with CLP, he stated simply that he “likes campus activism and exposing young adults to conservative principles.” Darcy's focus is to advance the conservative movement the best that he can, and LI is happy to have him as a part of the team.Emily Miller begins a new chapter in her career at LI after accepting the director of Employment Placement Services. Previously, she was intern coordinator. Emily will control and maintain LI's website, conservativejobs.com, which is also known as “the HR department of the conservative movement.” Her goal is to sustain the role of a one-stop-shop for conservative job seekers and employers, and to place them in the public policy job process.Originally from Canton, OH, Emily has also worked for the Koch Associate Program, as well as the Philanthropy Round Table, where she managed the education reform team as a project coordinator. She loves working with young conservative leaders through LI's internship program, and believes that her new position will only expand upon that role.Trey McKenzie recently joined LI as a donor relations officer, where he corresponds with many of the Institute's donors in any way that is needed. Prior to joining the LI team, he interned with both Senator John Boozman from his home state of Arkansas and Americans for Prosperity, where he first heard of LI.Trey decided he wanted to join LI because he believes in the organization's mission, which is to increase the number and effectiveness of conservative activists and leaders in the public policy process. He has a passion to get others involved any way that he can, and his previous experience working in the conservative movement both for a legislator as well as within the non-profit sector will add to the work that he continues with LI. Emily Ames, the director of donor relations at LI says, “Trey is enthusiastic to learn and takes the extra step to help out everyone in our department. He is always looking for ways to improve processes around here, and he definitely thinks outside the box.”Also joining the Development Department is Karla Bruno, the new director of foundation and corporate relations. Her new position focuses on both fundraising and grant writing. Growing up in a military family (her father was a United States Marine), she is familiar with the concept of adapting quickly, and that is exactly what she has done at LI.Karla, an English teacher and a librarian for nearly 20 years, is also a writer and journalist. She became involved with the Wren Cross incident at the college of William & Mary, which initially began her interest within the realm of conservative politics. Steve Sutton, vice president of development and campus programs, is excited at the new development work Karla and the department is working on as they set new goals this year. He said, “We've always wanted to greatly increase our outreach to corporations, and this is one area we are particularly excited about.”The Leadership Institute welcomes all new hires.Would you like to join the LI team? The Institute currently has two open positions—the business systems engineer and intern coordinator.>

September 28, 2011, Arlington, VA—A combined total of 40 people spent September 19-23 improving their media skills with two back-to-back communications trainings: the Leadership Institute's Public Relations School and Broadcast Journalism School.The Public Relations School was an intensive three-day evening training focused on preparing attendees to handle the media for their causes or campaigns.Faculty included Blain Rethmeier, senior vice president for Public Affairs for the American Insurance Association (AIA); Scott Hogenson, a senior vice president at Dezenhall Resources; and the Leadership Institute's own Director of Digital Communications Abigail Alger, to name a few. Attendees learned valuable tips such as, “Don't let people talk to the press who haven't been prepped beforehand” and “unless it's about security, don't dictate to the press.”Other tips included the timing of hosting events, the amount of time people should post on Twitter vs. Facebook, creating ambiance for media events and building relationships.Lauren Valainis, an intern for Congressman Jeff Duncan (SC-03), said the Public Relations School was “a great way to learn PR basics, get great advice, and increase my DC network.”Similarly, Chad Hemmert, a writer for the Community College of Denver's Campus Connection Newspaper, said the training was “informative, lively [and] practical.”To end the week, the Broadcast Journalism School was a two-day lesson in on-camera media strategy. Kristen Cosby, a freelance reporter for Jacksonville's WJXT-TV, led most of the training. She used her own experience as the backdrop for lessons on everything from makeup application/clothing/jewelry to writing broadcast reports to actually standing in front of a camera for a live feed.LI Intern Thomas Cloud (pictured), was one of the students who tried the on-camera exercises. Afterwards, he said: “I was a bit nervous about talking without a script, but with Kristen's advice and some practice, I felt more confident standing in front of that camera. I would recommend the training to anyone who wants a career in media.”Missed the Broadcast Journalism School? LI will have a Television Workshop on October 7. To register for this school and others offered year-round, check out http://www.leadershipinstitute.org/training/ >

Kelly Fajardo does it all. She is an entrepreneur, businesswoman, community blogger, mother of three, web designer, and now a candidate in New Mexico for county clerk in Valencia County. Born and raised in New Mexico, Kelly family moved to California with her family for high school. “But it wasn't too long before we moved back to New Mexico,” Kelly said. "New Mexico is my home!” Now Kelly is on the ballot for her local elections. “Running for office was never on the list of the things to do,” Kelly said. “I was helping a friend of mine during his 2010 campaign and several people asked when I was running. My answer was always, ‘Never, I'm a behind-the-scenes person.'” “I wanted to get involved in politics to make a difference and stand up for my conservative values,” Kelly explained. “The information, training, and skills I learned through LI helped me have the confidence to know that I can run a successful campaign.” Kelly credits LI training for getting her ready to run. “I don't think I would have ever taken the step to run if not for LI," she said. Kelly has attended six LI trainings. She first learned of the Institute in April 2010 when she traveled to the Steven P.J. Wood Building in Arlington, Virginia for the Campaign Manager School. “I attended Leadership Institute training because I wanted to get more involved in politics and had no idea where to start,” Kelly said. “A friend of mine heard about LI and was already planning on attending the week-long Campaign Management School, so I tagged along. It was a life-changing week!” “When you ask what I learned, I learned EVERYTHING," Kelly explained. "I was so new to politics, still am, and knew nothing. One of the things that stood out to me was that there was never a boring lecture. The speakers were so dynamic, so real, and I absorbed everything they said like a sponge. I left feeling confident that I could really help make a difference back home.” In August 2010, Kelly went online to TeaPartyTraining.org to receive additional LI-sponsored training. Then in December 2010, she attended the Youth Leadership School in Flagstaff, Arizona. When Institute training came to Rio Rancho, New Mexico, she was there for the Travel Campaign Management School -- both the regular class and the advanced workshop -- and, last month, in August 2011, she attended another Youth Leadership School in Albuquerque which New Mexico Lt. Governor Sanchez visited. Below: Lt. Governor Sanchez, Kelly, and other YLS graduates “lean right” in Albuquerque. “At the Youth Leadership School our instructor told us to attend every [political] meeting, ‘You never know what will happen,'" Kelly said. "I have taken his advice, and I can honestly say it has benefited me tremendously. I attend as many community events and meetings as I can. In order to have a ‘reason' to attend, I started writing my own blog. I did it for the benefit of one or two friends who wanted to know what was going on in the meetings, but the readership has grown." “I am still surprised when someone I don't know tells me how much they appreciate the blog,” Kelly said. “Not only has attending these meetings and writing about it helped me to stay on top of the pulse of the community, but I have met so many people and I've gained a great network of friends and business associates. I now tell people that 90% of getting involved in politics is just showing up!” What drives Kelly to be so engaged and active in public policy? “My ‘ministry' is the youth,” Kelly explains. “I served for years in youth ministry at our local church and in the last couple of years this has morphed into helping young people get more involved in politics. After all, it is their future we are spending.” When LI's Youth Leadership School came to Albuquerque, Kelly evenrecruited others to join her. “I had the privilege of being the point person in hosting a YLS in New Mexico,” Kelly says. “I encouraged everyone I knew to attend, and I have heard nothing but great feedback. I now have a whole new crop of young people trained and ready for 2012! It's great!” Married for 15 years to Larry Fajardo, Kelly and her husband have three boys. Kelly had worked for the family business in accounting, payroll, and billing. Her parents started the business more than 20 years ago "from nothing," Kelly remembered. But a year ago, a tragic fire destroyed the company; "there was no way to rebuild," she said. “Looking at the economy and knowing I had to do something for my family, I began my own business nine months ago," Kelly explained. "Having the experience of web design for the last 10 years, I started by own web design and social media consulting business [named KKF Media]. I love what I do." “I especially enjoy working with non-profits and campaigns,” Kelly said. “I teach organizations the benefits of social media and how to run successful campaigns using the social media tools available, including fundraising techniques.” New Mexico State Representative Alonzo Baldonado, aother LI graduate, used KKF Media for his successful campaign. “KKF Media was a game changer in our campaign," he said. "She was able to get our site up, running, and looking great. Now that we won our election, they were able to plug us into our voter base and keep us in front of the action.” Kelly is a strong advocate for LI training, recruiting students for upcoming schools and seminars. “I just happened to speak with a gentleman the other day who is considering a run for State Legislature. It is his first time being a candidate, and the first thing I told him was to attend LI's Campaign Manger School. I assured him the information and training would be the best investment he could ever make in his campaign. (Glad to say, he is registered for October).” You too can receive the “best investment in your campaign” by registering for LI's monthly campaign training. The next campaign training is next week--October 3-6. For more information and to register, please click here. To nominate someone for Leadership Institute Graduate of the Week, please contact LI's External Affairs Officer Lauren Hart at LaurenHart@LeadershipInstitute.org.

September 23, 2011, Arlington, VA--Last week the Leadership Institute broke a record of 79 students who attended LI's High Dollar Fundraising School. Attendees discovered ways to enhance the causes and candidates of their choice with effective fundraising.The expert faculty included Todd Meredith, co-owner of Morgan, Meredith & Associates; Tracey Johnson, President and CEO of Credo Strategies; and LI's own Marci LeBlanc and Steve Sutton from the development department.Attendees learned how to write grant proposals, distinguish the differences between types of donations, communicate strategically with donors, and establish a high-dollar direct mail program."The LI High Dollar fundraising workshop was extremely helpful. After completing the class, I immediately put the skills I learned to use, and have already secured additional funding for my non-profit," said GI Film Festival Executive Director Laura Law-Millett.Jerry Cave, owner of his own communications and search engine optimization company, says he plans to use the training to possibly pursue a career in advocacy. “[The] Leadership Institute is a fabulous opportunity to learn and develop new skills and meet fellow conservatives. [It was] a tremendous learning experience!”LI Intern Fredrick McKinley said he always was afraid of asking people for money, “but after attending the High-Dollar Fundraising School, [he] feels more confident that [he] will be able to successfully help a campaign raise money.”Lynda Fairman, We the People district coordinator for VA-01 and York County coordinator for Tom Harmon for VA Senate Campaign said, “LI's High Dollar Fundraising School gave me practical, ‘real world' methods that will help me while working on political campaigns and for non-profit organizations and schools. Presentations from experts in the field address everything from assessing dollars needed to asking for different levels of donations to finalizing the deposit and organizing reports, this school covers it all for success from beginning to end!”“I've already started using this knowledge to help the We the People program replace the defunded federal funds so we can continue to train teachers to teach the Constitution with non-partisan curriculum in all schools at all levels,” Lynda continued. “In addition to this job, I plan on sharing what I've learned as I work on political campaigns to help conservative candidates raise the funds needed to win elections.”“The Leadership Institute presents quality programs with expert information I can use right away. After graduating from several of their schools and their grassroots training and workshops, I highly recommend any of their classes,” Lynda said. “LI is, truly, a class act for success!”Are you interested in attending the High-Dollar Fundraising School or other Leadership Institute trainings? To register for this school and others, check out http://www.leadershipinstitute.org/training/ >

September 21, 2011, Arlington, VA—The Leadership Institute has a tip-top class of fall interns this year. Obed Bazikian • Rutgers University • Weehawken, New Jersey • Youth Leadership School Obed Bazikian graduated from Rutgers University in 2010 with a degree in political science. He was a member of the College Republicans, an assistant in the ESL graduate program, and involved in the Rutgers Telefund. Obed also studied at the Christ For the Nations Institute in Dallas, where he served as a resident assistant. He volunteered on the Chris Christie gubernatorial campaign in New Jersey and interned for World Information Transfer, an NGO for which he served as a representative at many United Nations meetings. Obed has also done international relief work in both India and Mexico. 1. What are your job duties within your department and what projects will you be working on this semester? My duties as a Youth Leadership School Intern are to call potential school attendees for recruitment, gather and mail event materials, and enter information received from each YLS student into our databases. At the end of the internship, my project will be to organize and facilitate an entire school. This does not mean to teach every class for the school, but I will be responsible for all the planning and logistics for the event. 2. What are you most excited about in this internship? Being an intern for YLS is both challenging and exciting. I hit the ground running in the department and I had to learn a lot in a short amount of time. With that said, my supervisors are excellent at what they do, and it has been so helpful to learn from their demonstrated skills and experience. The skills I am learning at YLS are sharpening me to become more confident in myself and my God-given abilities. It is this aspect of my job that is exciting for me. 3. What are your future plans? My future plans are to serve on staff for a public official, work in the executive branch, and run for public office on a federal level. I would also seek to have more experience in International Relations; therefore a position in the state department for a time would be desired. Thomas Cloud • University of Washington • Gig Harbor, Washington • President's Office Thomas Cloud graduated from the University of Washington in June 2011 with a double major in economics and history. He was a regular contributor to his university newspaper, The Daily. He is now a contributing writer to NextGenJournal.com, where he writes editorials on politics, current events, and college life. Thomas also completed an internship at The Peninsula Gateway, his hometown newspaper. He served as a student assistant in the University of Washington's economics department. In 2011, Thomas was a finalist for the William F. Buckley Jr. Fellowship. He has been involved in Young Americans for Liberty and the Washington Policy Center. 1. What are your job duties within your department and what projects will you be working on this semester? Both Morton and Cathy are very busy, so I act as a sort of catchall for everyday odds and ends. I help process Adam Smith Tie orders, file, make sure the mail gets out on time, research, and keep the jelly bean jar full among other things. 2. What are you most excited about in this internship? Learning the ins and outs of maintaining and growing a successful conservative movement through LI's schools and my co-workers is both exciting and refreshing. 3. What are your future plans? My plans are always in flux but for now I am determined to write. Someday I hope to be a syndicated columnist writing on politics and whatever else piques my interest. Charles Creitz • Temple University • Schnecksville, Pennsylvania • LI Studios/Online Pr. Charles Creitz graduated from Temple University in May 2011 with a degree in broadcast journalism. He recently completed an internship with the Charles G. Koch Foundation, through which he was placed with the Leadership Institute's development department. He completed an internship in Philadelphia with the Republican Party of Pennsylvania, where he aided in recruitment efforts, made phone calls, and went door-to-door for candidates. Charles is a city committeeman for the 20th Ward Republican City Committee of Philadelphia. In 2009, he volunteered in the office of Representative Gary Day. He is also an Eagle Scout. 1. What are your job duties within your department and what projects will you be working on this semester? I will edit and produce clips and larger projects for LI Studios using Final Cut and other programs. Additionally, I will write scripts, assist with technical production of webinars including prompter, key grip, and other important positions. 2. What are you most excited about in this internship? I am most excited about the possibility of honing skills and gaining experience through work and LI schools so that I can finally find a full time job in the conservative movement. 3. What are your future plans? Find a job. Then I can work on the more extensive plans. Mikayla Hall • University of Washington • Gig Harbor, Washington • Recruitment Mikayla Hall graduated from the University of Washington in June 2011 with a double major in political science and communication. She is the northwest regional director for Young Americans for Liberty, having previously served as the Washington state chair. While at the University of Washington, Mikayla was the College Republicans vice president, a public speaking and speechwriting tutor, and public relations advisor for the Invisible Children chapter. She has also served as the Washington State College Republican Federation's communications director and a youth mentor in the St. Joseph Youth Ministry program in her hometown. 1. What are your job duties within your department and what projects will you be working on this semester? My job duties are: running the Twitter account; strategizing more effective/efficient means of new media communication; data entry; and assisting in general outreach activities. 2. What are you most excited about in this internship? I am most excited about the opportunity to practice the communications skills I learned in college in a real workplace environment—and further the conservative movement in the process. 3. What are your future plans? My career goal as of now is to become a speech writer. Thus, I hope that post-internship I can find communications jobs that further allow me to hone in on my writing, editing and speaking skills. Laci Lawrence • Texas Tech University • Lubbock, Texas • Employ. Placement Services Laci Lawrence graduated from the Texas Tech University School of Law in 2011 with a biosecurity law certificate. While at Texas Tech, Laci was the student editor for the Journal of Biosecurity, Biosafety, and Biodefense Law. She was vice president of the Family Law Society, worked in the Legal Aid Clinic, and helped to bring Students for Life back to the Texas Tech campus. She was also a fellow at the Texas Tech Center for Biodefense, Law, and Public Policy. Laci earned a degree in sociology with an emphasis in criminal justice from Abilene Christian University. She has volunteered at the Regional Crime Victim Crisis Center and the Taylor County Child Advocacy Center in Abilene. 1. What are your job duties within your department and what projects will you be working on this semester? I will be helping with marketing ConservativeJobs.com to a broader audience, specifically college students around the U.S. who attend LI trainings and schools. Each day I help Andrea search for conservative jobs, post them to the website, and broadcast the newly-posted opportunities via Facebook and Twitter. 2. What are you most excited about in this internship? The most exciting part of this internship is living in D.C. and meeting new and interesting people. My dream was to work in D.C., so now I need to find a way to stay. 3. What are your future plans? My plans include working for a federal agency or think tank on national security issues and public policy. Frank Manning • University of Nottingham • London, England • Development Frank Manning graduated from the University of Nottingham with a degree in European politics. Frank is a researcher for Big Brother Watch, a civil liberties and privacy campaign think tank in London. He has been published in numerous media outlets including Conservative Home, The Commentator, the European Journal, and Wikiminster. After completing his degree, Frank spent a year as a trainee quantity surveyor with Ward Williams Associates in Cornwall. He then enrolled in a Spanish language school in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Upon his return, he worked at his family's hotel and restuarant. In October 2010, Frank spent two weeks in Westminster to gain a better understanding of Parliament. 1. What are your job duties within your department and what projects will you be working on this semester? I will be working with the Development team to learn as much as possible about donor relations, including direct mail, phone calls as well as face-to-face meetings. I also hope to ascertain whether the department may benefit from the expanded use of email marketing such as a weekly roundup of events for supporters of LI and easier online donations. Having used them for a campaign group that I previously worked for I think they could be very useful. 2. What are you most excited about in this internship? The opportunity to experience working for a hugely successful training organization in America will give me a fresh perspective on how to operate when back in the UK. Washington is also a fantastic city to live in and I hope to make excellent contacts for the future by networking at a number of events. 3. What are your future plans? After completing my internship I will return to England to work as the Campaigns Coordinator for the Young Britons' Foundation. I will utilize everything that I have learnt over the course of my three months in the Development department here at the Leadership Institute to expand the organization and attract more funding from conservative supporters in Britain. Eventually we hope to open a training center in the style of the Leadership Institute in London. Fredrick Mckinley • Belhaven University • Jackson, Mississippi • Political Training Fredrick Mckinley graduated from Belhaven University in April 2011 with a degree in history and a minor in political science. Since January 2011, he has served as an aide in the elections division for the office of Mississippi Secretary of State. He worked on the campaign to elect Jeff Weill as Circuit Court Judge. In this role, Fredrick communicated with the candidate about how to respond to the needs of the people in the West Jackson neighborhoods. He worked with youth groups in Mississippi and Alaska, where he developed curriculum, delivered speeches, and led programming. Fredrick also served as a runner for the Watkins, Ludlam, Winter, & Stennis law firm and worked at Lifeway Christian Bookstore. 1. What are your job duties within your department and what projects will you be working on this semester? My duties include assisting in the planning and implementation of Political Training Schools like the Campaign Management, Future Candidate, Online Activist, and Conservative Career Schools. I assist with the closing of schools through data entry and reports for evaluations and blue sheets. 2. What are you most excited about in this internship? I am most excited about this internship through growing professionally, developing new relationships, and learning more about the conservative movement. 3. What are your future plans? My future plans are to find a job in political training or grassroots organization. Angela Mitchell • Liberty University • Hedgesville, West Virginia • Events Angela Mitchell graduated in May 2011 from Liberty University with a degree in history. She was a member of College Republicans, where she worked with local campaigns and voting polls. She also served as a campus liaison for Concerned Women for America, informing women on campus about public policy issues and ways to get involved, and promoting CWA events. Angela has extensive experience in customer service, having worked in telecommunication at In-Service America and catering and marketing at Chick-fil-A. 1. What are your job duties within your department and what projects will you be working on this semester? Throughout the semester I will be working on preparing LI offices and guests for the Wednesday Wake-up Club Breakfasts, the staff Christmas Party, and prep work for each of the upcoming schools. 2. What are you most excited about in this internship? I am mostly excited for the experience I will learn at LI. I believe it is invaluable to whatever my future career may be! Not only am I excited about the positive, conservative work environment, but also the amazing opportunities and events that we as interns are able to attend. I am blessed, and excited at the thought of all that I am able to learn about the conservative movement as a whole throughout the course of my internship, and working with those at LI. 3. What are your future plans? Although I am still forming a clear plan on what I would like to do, my future plans are definitely to establish myself with the non-profit sector. I love what I am doing at LI with events and working with the public, and would love to achieve success in event planning and/or possibly work in development. Please welcome each LI intern! Please click here for information on LI's intern program.

September 19, 2011, Arlington, VA—Meet Brian Swensen. He is the political director for the Republican Party of Florida. Brian is this week's LI Graduate of the Week. He manages the 2012 grassroots and field operation for the state. “I also am in charge of managing the delegates and guests for Florida's straw poll, Presidency 5, which will be held this week. Prior to that, I was the 2010 Victory Director for Governor Rick Scott. I managed his statewide field operation of 16 offices and more than 200 staff,” Brian said. Brian is no stranger to LI training. He has attended six: Grassroots Get-Out-The-Vote Workshop in October 2008; Public Speaking Workshop 2 in July 2008; Public Speaking Workshop in July 2008; Campaign Manager School in December 2007; the High Dollar Fundraising School in September of 2007; and the Field Program's Youth Leadership School in August 2007. “I had not yet managed a campaign when I took these schools and since then, I have managed three,” Brian said. “When I got involved in the campaigns I hit the ground running and knew what I was doing in part because of my training from LI,” Brian said. “The schools I got the most out of were the Youth Leadership School and Campaign Manager School. I have been able to utilize many of the diverse topics I have learned from LI and put them to use.” How has LI training helped Brian be more effective in Florida politics? “I learned how to effectively build and mobilize a grassroots operation. In addition, I learned how to effectively care for and manage volunteers,” Brian said. “Some of the best stuff I learned which I applied in Governor Scott's election were some of the basics people overlook, such as: room size in comparison to crowd size; how to make a crowd look more alive and fun then it may actually look; and manage a true grassroots staff from door to door, to phone banking, and GOTV.” Originally born in Yonkers, New York, Brian lived in St. Croix, Virgin Islands and Middletown, New Jersey. He moved to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida in 1997 and attended St. Thomas Aquinas High School. Later, he attended Florida International University (FIU) where he was heavily involved in Pi Kappa Phi fraternity and student government while working toward his public administration degree. After college he moved to Arlington, Virginia and worked at LI for 1.5 years. Since then he has lived in several places in Florida and is now residing in Tallahassee. Brian continues to spur on the conservative movement through teaching as a distinguished faculty member for LI at more than 55 trainings (Youth Leadership School, Student Publications Workshops, and others) around the country. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with other young conservatives. This week LI will travel down to the Sunshine State for the American Conservative Union's CPAC-FL conference to train more conservatives in grassroots activism. Please stop by our booth Friday to say hello and make sure to attend at least one of our three afternoon trainings. CPAC-Fl is being held in the South Concourse of the Orange County Convention Center. The address is 9899 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. See you there! To nominate a Leadership Institute graduate for LI Graduate of the Week, please contact LI's External Affairs Officer Lauren Hart at LaurenHart@LeadershipInstitute.org.

Congratulations! You received the call from your dream job company, and they want to interview you in a week. After the celebratory victory dance, which is merited, since you probably made the cut from a much larger pool of candidates, it's time to think about the interview. Here is a short list of things to think about, execute, or prepare for prior to the big day. Each tip is designed to cut the unnecessary stress out of an inherently stressful day.1. Always bring at least 3 copies of your resume and any documentation you sent in with your application. It seems silly, especially because you know the company already has all of your information, but I have been asked on at least 3 interviews for my resume. Avoid awkward moments by being smooth and prepared with your resume, writing sample, and references on hand.2. Review the company website, publications, and community involvement before the interview. Chances are you already checked out the company before you applied, but a quick refresher is important so you know exactly how to respond to the interview questions. Also, check if anyone you know works at the company. They might have advice from their personal experience with the company and insider company policy. If you do not know anyone at the company, try researching the competition and their view on your potential employer. Integrate this research into your interview answers, and you will look not only smart, but already familiar with the company's policies.3. If you can, find out who your interviewer(s) will be before you arrive. Research what they do for the company. You may discover you have friends or causes in common, and it can never hurt to drop a line or two you know will be favorable to the interviewer.4. One of the most important tips is being on time for the interview. Drive by the interview location a day before the interview and make sure to check on parking options and traffic issues for the particular area. I interviewed for a job in a busy downtown area and did not anticipate the complete lack of parking. When I finally did find parking, I was stressed and frazzled. I was not late to the interview, but anxious sweat is not the best start to an interview.5. Pick out the “winning outfit” the day before. Find your favorite interview outfit, including accessories and jewelry, and try it on. Does it still fit and make you feel fabulous? If not, find the next best option and stick with it the day of the interview. 6. Plan your meal time appropriately. You should eat something before the interview, if just to avoid the loud stomach grumbles in the middle of the interview. Do not, under any circumstances, drink alcohol before your interview. One of my previous employers said he had several people walk into the interview with alcohol fumes on their breath, and he immediately eliminated them from the hiring process. Celebrate after the interview.Now that you have some great tips, use them! You might be anxious about the interview when you walk into the employer's office, but just think about the other potential candidates who failed to bring copies of their resume, frantically searched for parking, or forgot to research the employer properly. You are already several steps ahead of them, so put on a smile and work that interview. >

v\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} o\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} w\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} .shape {behavior:url(#default#VML);} 0 Normal 0 false false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";} September 16, 2011, Arlington, VA— On September 17, 1787 the Founding Fathers finished one of the greatest documents in history: The United States Constitution.The document established roles for the federal government, outlined rights guaranteed to American citizens, and formed a check-and-balance system to rival any other. It was to be a model for the rest of the world.When leaving Independence Hall, Benjamin Franklin was asked what system of government had been created. He responded: “A Republic, if you can keep it.”Two-hundred and twenty four years later, we find a nation in turmoil.Demagoguery, class warfare, military conflicts, and a struggling economy are some of many issues plaguing modern political discourse. No matter how grim our current circumstances may appear, there is one day each year where we should pause and reflect on the history of America. Tomorrow—Constitution Day—there are a number of opportunities to get engaged.The Leadership Institute's Campus Reform is encouraging all conservative student organizations to pass out Constitutions and inform their peers of their rights and liberties. For more information on how to do this, check out the Constitution Day page.We Read the Constitution, a project of Let Freedom Ring, says you do not need to do anything elaborate—just read the Constitution “in your community, out loud, proud and in public.” By using their interactive map, you can find parties at which Americans will gather to read the Constitution.Several organizations in the DC area will host events:• State Policy Network's Happy Hour with Constitution-themed cocktails from 4-5 p.m. on Friday, September 16; 1655 N. Fort Myer Drive, Suite 360; Arlington, VA 22209• The National Archives will host a discussion on James Madison and an ice cream social with First Lady Dolley Madison; Friday, September 16 from 12-2 p.m.—click here for more information.• The Conservative Caucus will host their annual Constitution Day event at 7 p.m. on Saturday, September 17 at the Hyatt Arlington in Rosslyn, VA. Admission is free. If you wish to attend, please email info@ConservativeUSA.org or call 703-938-9626 to reserve a place.“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances,” states the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.Happy reading!>

September 14, 2011, Arlington, VA—The Campaign Management School held last week at the Leadership Institute was four full days and trained 22 students. David Wiesby said, “I am 58-years-old and have attended many schools and training events, but this is the best of the best. It is like going to the NFL from high school.”Stephen Clouse, president of Stephen Clouse & Associates, and James Davis, an associate with Brunswick Group, were among the expert faculty teaching at the school.“Before I attended I had no idea how to begin raising money, but I feel more prepared to get started,” said student Erin Ashley.Attendees learned how to create a campaign plan, target and identify voters, develop a message, pick one of the various fundraising strategies, and quickly and correctly respond to the media.Armed with this knowledge, graduates of LI's Campaign Management School go on to run and work on campaigns across the country.“[The Campaign Management School] was a comprehensive crash course on campaigning that maximizes content over a condensed time frame. …I plan to incorporate this training into my upcoming campaign for the West Virginia House of Delegates,” said Elliot Simon.Elliot learned of the Leadership Institute from his friends who are delegates in the West Virginia legislature: Jonathan Miller and Eric Householder.Want to learn how to run a quality campaign? The best campaign schools are now available monthly—during the first week of every month!Check out the Future Candidate School December 5th and Campaign Management School October 3rd. >

Jake Frank is no ordinary high school student. Along with his busy schedule of class, studying, and extracircular activities, Jake interns for Assemblyman Paul Cook (CA-65). Jake attends Yucca Valley High School where he is active in the Leadership (ASB) class. Through this class he met Mariya Swella, sister to Meghan Swella, LI's Youth Leadership School Coordinator. Mariya encouraged Jake to attend LI's Youth Leadership School (YLS), and he did in September 2010 when the YLS came to the University of Nevada-Las Vegas. “The training I received at the Youth Leadership School taught me how to run youth-oriented campaigns on college campuses. I applied a scaled-down version of the election strategies to my school elections. The Youth Leadership School gave me an insight into politics that most 17-year olds do not understand, allowing me an advantage,” Jake said. After LI training, Jake decided he wanted to increase his political activism. “After attending [the YLS], I resolved to become more involved in government," Jake said. "I began asking various people I knew who were already involved where I should start. From there I received an application from Assemblyman Cook's Field Representative Dawn Rowe and applied for the internship." The YLS “taught me different ways of looking at problems, helping me become more creative when it comes to getting my foot in the door," Jake explained. "I have applied the techniques I was taught to write my intern application and to fulfill reports.” As an intern, Jake is responsible for representing and staffing the assemblyman at community events. “The tasks I am called on to complete usually take place around the community here in California's Morongo Basin," Jake said. "Most of my projects have been public-appearance oriented. When the assemblymen and his field representative cannot be present at a function in our area I am called on to attend.” If you would like to learn how to be an effective youth activist like Jake, please contact YLS Coordinator Meghan Swella at MSwella@LImail.us. Also visit LI's training schedule to know when LI training is coming to your area. To nominate a Leadership Institute graduate to be featured as LI's graduate of the weke, please contact LI's External Affairs Officer Lauren Hart at LaurenHart@LeadershipInstitute.org.

Yesterday a crowd of 104 conservatives braved the early morning stormy weather to hear The Heritage Foundation's President Dr. Edwin J. Feulner speak at the Leadership Institute's monthly breakfast. “We need to work harder and smarter than our intellectual adversaries,” said Dr. Feulner. “We have a lot more tools today that we used to have, whether it is talk radio or the ability to reach out…through the Internet directly to people—the younger generation.”Deemed a “titan” in the conservative movement by LI President Morton Blackwell, Dr. Feulner reminded the audience of the importance of institutions like LI and The Heritage Foundation.Changing policies is not an easy task, but through the collaboration of think tanks and training facilities, it is possible. “That is one of the reasons,” Dr. Feulner said “why Morton and Helen should be so rightfully proud of the fact that [almost] 100,000 people have graduated from their schools now.”Click here to watch the full video of yesterday's breakfast.“You need institutions that are around that are going to outlast the politicians. You need to be able to say, ‘whether your name is Bob Michael or Newt Gingrich or John Boehner or Eric Cantor or Paul Ryan or whatever it is, there are places you can go to get the right kind of information. You need long term institutions.'”Dr. Feulner and Morton share the same philosophy: In order to be successful, the conservative movement has to add and multiply, not divide and subtract. To meet this goal, Dr. Feulner wants to target the younger generation.“We've got to convince the younger generation that we've got the right answers,” Dr. Feulner said. “We can do it. We can pass freedom on to the next generation, but the only way we'll do it is by…reinforcing and reinvigorating everything we believe in because politics is not a spectator sport.”To close on a positive note, Dr. Feulner gave the audience these parting words: “I think we will win, but in Washington there are no permanent victories. Never assume the other side is standing still.”The next Wake-Up Club Breakfast, scheduled for October 5, will feature Congressman Tim Huelskamp, a Republican from Kansas's 1st Congressional District. For more information and to RSVP, please go here. >

September 6, 2011, Arlington, VA—Almost every interest group is represented by a PAC or lobbying group, so why shouldn't mothers have such a group? Leadership Institute Graduate of the Week Cindy Chafian has made it her mission to support fellow mothers through her new nonprofit—The Mommy Lobby—which raises awareness and advocates for issues conservative moms feel every day. A native of Southern California, Cindy and her Navy officer husband moved to Virginia 12 years ago. “For the past 15 years I have been a stay-at-home mom. The demands of doing just that hindered my ability to really get involved with what was happening in politics,” Cindy said. “I was so busy taking care of my kids that I simply didn't have much left over at the end of the day.” “At the end of the Bush Term, I really began to get concerned with what was happening and since my children were slightly older, I was able to start researching, reading, and getting more involved,” Cindy said. “After working with a couple of conservative activist groups, I did not feel like they were reaching the ‘mom demographic.' I felt like I knew what my calling was and The Mommy Lobby was born.” Enter the Leadership Institute. “Not having a background in politics,” Cindy says, “I turned to the one place I felt could best equip me for working within the field I was venturing into. The Leadership Institute provides amazing training courses, and while I am not done learning, I am far more knowledgeable now than I was before taking the courses.” Cindy has taken six LI trainings this year: Online Fundraising Workshop; Youth Leadership School; Public Speaking Workshop; Public Relations School; Advanced Public Speaking Workshop; and Grassroots Campaign School. Cindy goes on: “Anytime I suggest LI to anyone, I always tell them this is an invaluable training organization that supports the goals of the conservative movement. In a world where it feels like everyone around you is far-left liberal, it's wonderful to be around those who share your values and vision for the country we are all so blessed to live in. I look forward to enrolling in more LI courses to help guide me.” The Mommy Lobby is “a political/social advocacy group with the goal to engage, inform, and activate everyday moms to get involved and take the collective voice of the American family to those who make the decisions for our children's future.” For more information on this group, please go to their website www.themommylobby.org If you would like to learn how you can start an effective campus group, lobbying group, or other political groups, visit LI's upcoming training schedule. To nominate a Leadership Institute graduate for LI Graduate of the Week, please contact LI's External Affairs Officer Lauren Hart at LaurenHart@LeadershipInstitute.org.

September 2, Arlington, VA—The Leadership Institute went out on the road again last weekend to train young conservatives at LI's flagship school, the Youth Leadership School, which advances political careers. Notable graduates of this training include: Senator Mitch McConnell; Iowa Governor Terry Branstad; Americans for Tax Reform President Grover Norquist; Americans for Prosperity President Tim Phillips; Senator Jim DeMint's Speechwriter Amanda Carpenter; and Karl Rove, senior advisor to President George W. Bush, among others.LI trained 31 students in Albuquerque and had three top graduates who exemplified superior performance and engagement throughout the training.Santa Barbara City College student Poornima Wagh said, “The training was fantastic, very informative, detailed, and gave the complete A to Z of political training in just two days.”Washington and Lee University recent graduate Jordy Stern “loved the special projects presentation and learning how to write a press release.”LI's Youth Leadership School Coordinator Meghan Swella said, “Lt. Governor John Sanchez gave a summary Saturday morning of why conservative leadership is so important.” Meghan was touched when “he shared how he and his siblings made shoes out of cardboard.” Lt. Governor Sanchez encouraged students to “lean right” in the group picture.Meghan has high hopes for the YLS students. “I hope students use what they learned to impact the 2012 elections, especially since New Mexico is a swing state,” Meghan said.High School Senior Arinea Salas said, “I plan to use this training by participating in a youth effort for the upcoming 2012 elections, specifically Senator Jeff Bingaman's seat.” Chairman of the New Mexico Federation of College Republicans Krystalynn Wilkins said she would describe her training experience to others by “telling them it's pretty much all you need to know about youth involvement in campaigns in one weekend.”Executive Director of the Bernalillo County Republican Party Charles McMillian said that this is “the best training around” and he plans to use it “win in New Mexico!”Interested in bringing the Youth Leadership School to your area? Visit our website for a list of our upcoming trainings or contact Meghan Swella to bring the Youth Leadership School to your area. >

August 10, 2011, Arlington, VA—“Washington was different than two years before—smaller, shaken, and less confident. America was different too—bigger and more confident with millions of Americans discovering their power as citizens and voters,” said Senator Jim DeMint in his new book, The Great American Awakening, recently released.DeMint's new book explains the significant ideological shift in Washington between the 2008 elections and the resurgence of conservatives in the 2010 elections. He interestingly attributes this shift to a spiritual and political awakening among the grassroots aimed at replacing “the foul, old Washington air.”Native of Greenville, South Carolina, Jim DeMint has served as a U.S. senator since 2004 and was elected chairman of the Senate Steering Committee in 2006. Recognized for consistently voting for reasonable tax and spending policies, DeMint is an acclaimed conservative leader and advocate for the grassroots movement.Throughout his book, DeMint recounts instance after instance of personally questioning the established policies, politicians, and principles. “The Washington establishment is driving our nation toward bankruptcy,” DeMint said. He explains that the continual spending and borrowing of the government is steadily burying our country under a “mountain of debt.”In Senator Marco Rubio's forward to DeMint's book, he agreed that “the Washington establishment [is] a powerful system of inertia that protects the status quo.”DeMint did not know if his view represented hundreds or millions of Americans, but he resolved to speak for the concerned, disillusioned, and alarmed freedom-lovers. “We have nothing to apologize for. We believe in personal responsibility, capitalism and free markets, Judeo-Christian values and, importantly, limited Constitutional government.”In a riveting and organized fashion, DeMint reveals the inner components of the Washington political structure and outlines the steps necessary to promulgate favorable change. He also harnesses the hope of “millions of Americans willing to stand and fight” at the grassroots level.A lot of the energy and impact present in the 2010 election originated from Tea Party activists and “owners of small businesses, lawyers, and teachers—patriotic people afraid that Washington politicians were bankrupting America.” DeMint described the Tea Party movement as a picture of how freedom works.In 2007 DeMint spoke at the Leadership Institute's Wednesday Wake-Up Club Breakfast where more than a hundred students, donors, alumni, and staff were present. “I spoke about the importance of the upcoming election and explained why I was working to elect conservative senators in several races.”He recounts in his book how a student reminded him to keep fighting the establishment and trust the power of principled people. “The students had a lot of questions, and many encouraged me to keep up the fight. But one student challenged me, ‘If you're supporting conservative candidates against establishment Republicans, why haven't you endorsed Rand Paul in Kentucky?'”When describing his unconventional decision to endorse Rand Paul as a candidate, DeMint mentioned that his talk at the Leadership Institute encouraged and challenged him to rely on the freedom-fighters—the people.“This book is more about the future than the past,” DeMint said. “It recounts how committed individuals can come together to change the course of our nation.”DeMint writes with a fervent hope that this awakening will persist and generate a return to conservative principles in upcoming elections. “Some people believe this movement will fizzle and die. I believe it will continue to grow and I hope this book will inspire more Americans to join this great awakening.”As DeMint draws on the hope of a continued great awakening originating in the grassroots, he relies on staff committed to the same principles and passion, some of whom LI has trained.“As a United States senator, I come across the Leadership Institute's graduates all the time…as key congressional staffers, as heads of conservative organizations, even as colleagues,” Senator DeMint said. “When I ran for U.S. Senate in 2004, a Leadership Institute graduate was my campaign manager and another organized students for me throughout South Carolina,” explained DeMint.Senator DeMint's current Senior Communications Advisor and Speechwriter Amanda Carpenter explained, “Without the Leadership Institute, I may have never gotten involved in the conservative movement…all the credit goes to the Leadership Institute. I can't thank Morton Blackwell enough.”Leadership Institute President Morton Blackwell endorses DeMint's book: “Senator Jim DeMint's new book, The Great American Awakening, is a must read for all conservatives striving to understand the significance of the newly active grassroots movement, in the 2010 election and going forward.”To purchase a copy of Senator DeMint's book, please go here.>

August 29, Arlington, VA—For Brenda Stedham her life-long dream was to hold public office. She made that dream a reality in 2008 when she was elected as the Presiding Circuit Judge in the Family Court Division of the Seventh Judicial Circuit of Alabama. As Brenda's youngest daughter approached the end of high school, Brenda seized the opportunity and reached for her dream. “One of the people I met as I began considering my political future was Vicki Bailey, a campaign consultant, who felt strongly that I attend the LI's week-long candidate training,” Brenda said. Vicki is also a LI graduate, having attended six trainings. Brenda goes on, “I applied, was accepted, and was glad for the opportunity to go to the Leadership Institute.” Brenda made the trek to Arlington, Virginia for LI's Future Candidate School the week of July 23, 2007. In addition to LI's Future Candidate School, Brenda attended LI's Grassroots Campaign School the month prior. “The training I received that week was amazing! I learned how to prepare a campaign budget, how to organize a finance committee, how to do grassroots campaigning, how to work with the media, and how to present myself in a way that would be successful,” Brenda said. Brenda began her activism right away by getting involved with the local and statewide political scene. She founded the Cheaha Republican Women's club where she served as the first president and represented the club at the statewide meetings at both the Alabama Federation of Republican Women and the Alabama Republican Party. “I also became an active member of the Calhoun County Republican Executive Committee,” Brenda remarks, “making even more connections. Because of the connections I made with the AFRW and the Calhoun County Republican Executive Committee, in 2008 the State Republican Chair, Mike Hubbard, appointed me to serve as a member of the State Republican Executive Committee!” Brenda continues: “When the Republican nomination for Calhoun County Family Court became open in the summer of 2008, I was ready to apply. I was able to prepare an impressive resume, listing my training with the Leadership Institute as well as the other political activities that I had been involved with as the direct result of my training at LI.” Brenda is now more than half way through her third year as Presiding Circuit Judge. She says, “I handle cases from Calhoun and Cleburne Counties, which are both in the State's Seventh Judicial Circuit. Caseload includes divorces, divorce modifications, delinquency and dependency cases, adult abuse and neglect, and protection from abuse cases.” Brenda received her B.A. in political science from Birmingham—Southern Alabama, graduating cum laude. She went straight on to earn her J.D. from the University of Alabama, where she was on the editorial board for the Law & Psychology Review. Previously, she was an attorney-at-law and solo practitioner from 2001-2009. She was also a staff parish committee member for the Anniston First United Methodist Church. Brenda encourages candidates and staff to attend LI training: “I would strongly recommend that anyone who is considering a political campaign, whether at the local, state, or national level, sign up for LI training immediately. It prepares candidates the right way to organize a campaign and avoid many of the pitfalls that can doom a campaign.” Interested in getting political training like Brenda? Visit our website for a list of our upcoming trainings. The Leadership Institute welcomes Honorable Judge Brenda Stedham as LI Graduate of the Week! To nominate a Leadership Institute graduate for LI Graduate of the Week, please contact LI's External Affairs Officer Lauren Hart at LaurenHart@LeadershipInstitute.org.

August 25, 2011, Arlington, VA—“Never miss a political meeting if you think there's the slightest chance you'll wish you'd been there,” the 22nd Law of Public Policy Process says. Well, this is no political meeting, but the Leadership Institute's happy hour September 6th and campaign training September 6-9 is something you won't want to miss. Mark your calendars now.LI is now offering the very best campaign training every month PLUS a happy hour with free drinks for the first 100 people. Mix and mingle with great folks and get trained by the rockstars from the conservative movement all in the same week!“We are very excited to offer our campaign trainings the first full week of every month,” said LI's Director of Political & New Media Training Tyler Foote. Each month the Institute will offer either the Campaign Management School or the Future Candidate School.“By increasing the frequency of these trainings,” Tyler said, “we are able to expose more conservative activists to the strategies and techniques needed to raise their level of effectiveness in the public policy process.”Join the Leadership Institute at a happy hour Tuesday, September 6th from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Clarendon Grill, located on the first floor of LI's headquarters at 1101 North Highland Street, Arlington, Virginia -- just steps from the Clarendon metro stop.Come network with LI faculty, staff and alum. Jobseekers - bring your résumé for a free consultation from one of our experts from ConservativeJobs.com, the Leadership Institute's one-stop shop for conservative jobseekers and employers.The first 100 guests to arrive will receive a ticket for a free drink! Happy Hour Specials:• Miller Lite Draft/Bottle - $1.75• Bud Light Draft/Bottle - $1.75• Coors Light Bottle - $1.75• Bud Bottle - $1.75• Yuengling Draft - $2.75• Heineken/Heineken Light - $3.00• Corona/Corona Light - $3.00• ½ Price Bottles of WineRSVP for the Happy Hour by Monday, September 5th or call Courtney Trollinger at 703-247-2000.The upcoming Campaign Management School provides campaign managers and staff with the tools and information necessary to manage a winning campaign with a strong grassroots organization and an effective media strategy. You will learn how to: • Write a campaign plan • Develop campaign strategy • Target and identify voters • Manage grassroots outreach • Raise fundsTo register for the very best campaign training September 6-9th please click here.We look forward to talking with you over drinks about the exciting, conservative politics!>

August 22, 2011, Arlington, VA--As more and more courtrooms across the country “legislate from the bench” and infiltrate a largely liberal bias into the court systems, it's a good thing we have justices like Honorable Jim Richard who uphold the Constitution and defend liberty. Leadership Institute Graduate of the Week is awarded to Judge Jim Richard, who serves the Justice Court, Pct 4, of Fort Bend County, Texas, and receives between 7,000 - 12,000 cases per year. Jim's “court resolves civil cases, eviction cases, small claims cases, misdemeanor class C cases, traffic citations and juvenile cases. Additionally, I handle emergency mental commitments, request for arrest warrants, magistrations and inquests. I also receive a few other types of cases,” Jim said. “I like to tell people that I do what the other courts don't want to handle.” Jim has stood four elections and is currently serving the first year of his fourth term in office. “LI training taught me to develop a plan and to work the plan. I am on that journey,” Jim said regarding his next election coming up in the March 2014 Republican primary. Jim graduated from LI's Campaign School (level 2) in 2009. “The training taught me to focus on a process,” Jim said. “Since the course, I have already produced the first draft of a campaign plan and a plan I call a preliminary voter contact plan.” As a native born Texan, Jim received his undergraduate degree from the University of Texas at Austin and his law degree from the University of Houston. He served as a prosecutor for 10 years and served in the Army for 20 years, six of which were active duty. He was a JAGC prosecutor and magistrate from 1988 until 2008. He served two overseas tours of duty and spent 14 years in the reserves. One of Jim's proudest contributions was “In 1998, when I wrote a law that allows state funded women's shelters to collect from batterers in domestic violence cases. I submitted that law to a State Representative that carried the bill,” Jim said. “I went to the legislative session in 1999 and testified in support of that bill. Then, Governor George W. Bush signed the bill into law.” Jim goes onto report, “Since the [LI ] course, I have joined the American Legion and become a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. I have accumulated 900-plus facebook friends and have performed 16 live auctions as auctioneer for non-profit charities.” For the past six years, Jim has served on the board of directors for the Fort Bend County Women's Center and currently serves on the advisory board. He serves on “all Fort Bend charities and non-profits as an auctioneer for their live auction fundraisers,” Jim said. When asked how he would describe LI training to others, he responded with one simple word: “Essential!” The training is so essential that Jim has decided to return to LI for more as he gears up for his next campaign. “I intend to take another LI course in two years to re-sharpen my focus and learn any updated information.” For his dedication to upholding the Constitution, we welcome Judge Jim Richard as this week's LI Grad of the Week. If you would like to attend LI trainings like Jim Richard, visit our website for a list of upcoming trainings. To nominate a Leadership Institute graduate you know for Graduate of the Week, please contact LI's External Affairs Officer Lauren Hart at LaurenHart@LeadershipInstitute.org.