Margaret Chase Smith Policy Center

Each scholar focuses on a topic of their own choosing. Topics can be local (energy conservation strategies for campus buildings) or of statewide significance (strategies to keep Maine university graduates in state). In all cases, the topics are expected to be well-defined, subject to research, and of real concern to Maine or a segment of its people. Past student topics have included addiction prevention, wind power, forestry regulation, school nutrition programs, civic education, habitat conservation, the nursing shortage, and housing for seniors.

After conducting research—which can be from the literature, data analysis, or interviews (or all three)—the scholar produces a final policy memo which outlines the problem, the data, and recommended solutions. Each scholar presents their final policy recommendations before a panel at the end of the program.

Faculty advisors meet regularly with the student throughout the year-long program. All scholars and faculty advisors from the seven UMS campuses convene on at least four occasions. Scholars also identify community practitioners who serve as mentors and as a “reality check” on the scholars’ work.