In a weekend filled with inspiration and networking, 12 graduate and undergraduate students from the Batten School and the College of Arts & Sciences embarked on a transformative journey to the 52nd Annual Legislative Conference hosted by the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation in Washington D.C.
The conference provided a dynamic setting for students to engage with an extraordinary gathering of visionaries, activists, and leaders who are shaping the future of critical issues at the intersection of social justice, economic empowerment, and cultural celebration of the American Black community. This included the opportunity to hear from influential voices in Congress and connect with UVA and Batten alumni working in public policy.
Students participated in a series of impactful breakout sessions, enabling them to delve into the specific policy topics that aligned with their interests. For Amber Townes (MPP ‘24), this included a session called “Don’t Build A Jail For Me: Prevention Not Detention,” which featured American television journalist Don Lemon, Dr. Peloton Moss, Senior Professorial Lecturer of Education Policy & Leadership at American University, Kristin Clarke, Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights at the Department of Justice, and Olivis Igbokwe-Curry, head of Congressional and Political Affairs at Amazon Web Services.
“This panel specifically had me engaged because of its shocking statistics and facts about systemic detention issues within U.S. schools,” said Townes. “I had the chance to learn about relevant policy issues affecting the Black community like reparations, gun violence, mental health, and more. I gained new perspectives and even reconsidered some of my current perspectives as I was around all kinds of people from advocates, activists, congressional leaders, community leaders, and more.”
Related News
Explore The Latest
News and Information
-
Student StoriesUVA Hydra: Where Seven Heads are Better than OneUVA Batten students on the Women's Ultimate Frisbee Team, Hydra, find commonality and balance amidst their academic pursuits and competing on this nationally ranked team.
-
Student StoriesUVA Batten 2026 Legacy AwardsEach year, the Batten Undergraduate Council invites students, faculty, and staff to make nominations for its Legacy Awards, given in five categories to honor graduating Bachelor of Arts students who have demonstrated leadership at the Batten School. Each of these awards reflect the virtues and experiences that distinguished Frank Batten, Sr. throughout his inspirational life.
-
Accolades2026 Citizen Leadership Medalist Henry Louis Gates, Jr. to Visit UVA BattenHenry Louis Gates, Jr. is the 2026 recipient of the Thomas Jefferson Foundation Medal in Citizen Leadership, which is the highest external honor bestowed by the University and recognizes the achievements of luminaries who embrace endeavors in which Jefferson excelled and held in high regard.