October 15, 2026

Students connect w/civic leaders in class

Politics and government are powerful forces affecting our lives and communities. And yet, far too many “political” issues feel impossible to resolve. Last spring, Honors students heard directly from a wide array of political actors from our region in Suzi LeVine’s seminar, “Power of the States: The People and Practices Behind the Programs and Policies that Impact People’s Lives.”

LeVine, former US Ambassador to Switzerland & Lichtenstein and current mover-and-shaker in WA state politics, lined up an impressive series of speakers. A few notables include: Congressman Adam Smith, Speaker of the Washington State House, Laurie Jinkins (pictured w/Suzi LeVine, fellow speaker Anne Levinson, and guests at a pre-class meet & greet), Pluribus News Editor-in-Chief and Founder, Reid Wilson, as well as many other civic leaders.

LeVine’s class is an amazing opportunity for Honors students to learn directly from some of the most impactful people in our region and to recognize their own agency when it comes to shaping public policy, influencing elections, and advocating for the issues that matter most to them. Did you miss the class? There are lots of ways to connect with civic leaders! For instance: many Honors alumni have contributed to the growth of Citizen University. Check out one of their programs or upcoming events!