Students attend a national security seminar in Washington, DC

06/03/2024

JONESBORO – A group of political science students from Arkansas State University recently returned from a seminar in Washington, D.C

“Ten students participated in a week-long program hosted by the Washington Center to learn more about national security,” said Dr. Jordan Butcher, assistant professor of political science.

Students listened to expert speakers and traveled to places such as the U.S. Secret Service headquarters, the Arlington Police Department and the Cato Institute.

“These short seminar trips are amazing for students because they allow students to gain insight into different careers, hear from prestigious speakers, and really interact with various components of government, all while experiencing DC and earning credits,” Butcher added.

Students volunteered to participate in the trip and received special funding and support through the Berry Scholarship Foundation.

The Berry Scholarship was created by former longtime House Member Marion Berry and his wife Carolyn to assist A-State students who wish to live in or visit Washington, D.C., for short periods of time. Funds are awarded at the discretion of the scholarship committee to assist those who would otherwise be unable to afford a visit to the nation’s capital.

Butcher said that in addition to the seminars, students attended a networking event hosted by The Washington Center where they were able to connect with experts in their areas of interest.

Seminar trips take place in January or May. Those interested in future programs can contact Butcher at [email protected].

Seminar participants were (left to right): Houston Swan of Crossett, Tyler Camp of Paragould, Will Gist of Benton, George Vaughan of Paragould, Jimmy Dye of Trumann, Luke Coleman of Memphis, Jada Sumpter of West Helena, Casen May of Paragould, Kesley Pearson of Salem, department head Dr. Jordan Butcher and Sarai Stubblefield of Little Rock.