If you're a woman who has longed to see your name on a poster under the words "Vote for ...," then you might be interested in "Politics: The UnCommon Choice," a one-day workshop being presented on Saturday, Dec. 7, by the Women's Campaign School at Yale.
In the workshop, participants will get advice on running a political campaign from women who have achieved victory in the polls. The speakers and discussion leaders will include two of Connecticut's leading congresswomen, Nancy Johnson and Barbara Kennelly. Kathleen Harrington, an aide to Elizabeth Dole, will discuss job opportunities in staffing and government relations. Former state legislator Peggy Rinker, who now works as educational consultant to the Connecticut Federation of Teachers, will explain how to get started in politics. Organizers of the program include Pauline Kezer, former Connecticut secretary of state; and Denise Merrill, state representative from Storrs.
The Women's Campaign School at Yale was founded four years ago to address the obstacles women face when running for elected office or working as campaign staff consultants. The goal of the program is to provide women with the skills necessary to campaign successfully. Training includes lectures and seminars, role-play, mock campaigns and case studies. The Women's Campaign School offers one-day and five-day sessions.
Participation in the Dec. 7 program costs $25, including lunch; the program is open to all, but pre-registration is required. To register, call the Women's Campaign School at 800-353-2878.