Sixth Annual Puller Institute - Applications are Open!

         

While the COVID-19 pandemic has caused the cancellation of many traditions, I'm pleased to announce that the 2021 Puller Institute will go ahead virtually this year.

Each year, the Puller Institute has allowed a small group of future leaders-- exceptional junior and senior high school students-- to explore their passions for creating change in the 36th district by engaging with the state legislative process. My hope is that this program inspires a lifelong interest in civic engagement from the participants. I grew up in this area and I graduated from West Potomac High School. I know that you have unique perspectives on local issues. The future of our democracy depends on young leaders like high school students who have the energy and passion for social change. 

In past years, the selected students have been able to sit in on sessions in both the Virginia State House of Delegates and the Senate. This year, the Puller institute program will be conducted virtually over zoom. While it will be a big change from previous years, I’m thrilled that we’ll be able to accommodate a greater number of students than we have in the past. 

In addition to viewing sessions, participants will have the opportunity to meet with Virginia policymakers and activists. In past years, students have met with Governor Ralph Northam, Secretary of Education Atif Qarni, reporter Michael Pope, Former Delegate Kris Amundson, and Former Delegate Chris Saxman.  

At the end of the program, students will present their own state policy proposals to me. Former participants advocated for a wide variety of topics, including making standardized testing more accessible to students with learning disabilities, establishing mandatory AED training for school officials, and improving pedestrian safety in the district by increasing crosswalks. Some of my best legislative ideas have been inspired by Puller Institute pitches! 

The sixth annual Puller Institute program will take place remotely:

Tuesday, January 19th
8:00 AM- 6:00 PM. 

The deadline for the application for the 2021 session is 

Tuesday, December 15th

5:00 PM, EST. 

Apply here: scottsurovell.org/puller-institute-application

If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact my office at 571.249.4484 or at scottsurovell@gmail.com. My Chief of Staff, Philip Scranage, will be happy to answer any questions.