Summit County Citizens Voice

100 Coloradans will have a chance to attend a civics conference in Washington, D.C. this summer. Bob Berwyn photo.

Annual event gives Colorado residents a chance to interact with federal government

By Summit Voice

SUMMIT COUNTY — The application deadline for the 2013 Colorado Capital Conference is closing in, with a chance for 100 state residents to visit Washington, D.C. June 5-7 for a first-hand look at the workings of the federal government. Applications can be submitted at http://markudall.senate.gov/capitalconference2013. Call 970-270-5594 for more information.

The annual conference is hosted by U.S. Senator Mark Udall, Colorado Mesa University and University of Colorado. The event is aimed at giving residents from every corner of Colorado a better understanding of the federal legislative process, with an opportunity to interact with members of Congress, the president’s cabinet and other opinion leaders in Washington, D.C.

“It is a great honor to once again co-host the annual Colorado Capital Conference with Colorado Mesa University and University of Colorado. This conference offers a diverse group of Coloradans a unique perspective of the legislative process in Washington, D.C., and lets them directly engage with political leaders on both sides of the aisle,” Udall said. “This educational forum will give participants the knowledge and skills to join the larger conversation on public policy, while interacting with a group of civic-minded Coloradans and national policy makers.”

Colorado Mesa University President Tim Foster said he is pleased that the university is again a sponsor.

“The Colorado Capital Conference provides a great opportunity for people from all walks of life to see their government up close and learn how to influence the process,” Foster said. “Anyone interested in public policy and the future of our country should consider applying.”

University of Colorado President Bruce Benson said the conference will provide an in-depth look at the federal government.

“The University of Colorado is honored to co-host the Colorado Capitol Conference, which affords Coloradans a unique opportunity to engage in the federal arena and to hear from thought leaders on issues affecting their local communities, the State of Colorado and the nation,” Benson said.

Participants who represent a diverse cross-section of the state will be selected through an application process. All applications must be postmarked no later than March 18.  Conference participants will be announced April 2. Participants are responsible for their own airfare and accommodations.  here is a $300 registration fee, which covers most meals.

Filed under: Colorado, federal government Tagged: | 2013 Capital Conference, Colorado, Colorado Mesa University, federal government, Mark Udall, Washington D.C.