Teens Can Learn To Advocate For Others In Stetson's New Program

PINELLAS COUNTY, FL — Tampa Bay minority students who want to make a difference for themselves, and to stand up for other underrepresented teenagers in the area can learn advocacy skills this summer at Stetson Law.

In partnership with Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg, the weeklong summer program is designed for Pinellas County teenagers, between the ages of 15-17, considered underrepresented because of sexual orientation, race, gender identity, socio-economic status or school performance, Stetson's website said.

“Youth civic engagement training is crucial at this time," Stetson Law Dean Michele Alexandre said. "Offering a program like this is one of the most valuable contributions philanthropic organizations and educational institutions such as Healthy St. Pete and Stetson Law can provide to the community."

Chief Executive Officer at the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg Randy Russell said there is a latent power in youth that is often overlooked. He expressed that racism takes a tremendous toll on our society, and youth now see that in pronounced ways.

The 5-day program is July 19 to July 24 via Zoom. It is free for the selected applicants to attend. Students will be required to be available between 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The daily hours will vary slightly, and will include several breaks, according to its website. The curriculum will include interactive workshops led by Stetson Law faculty and law students on the the following topics: civic engagement, social justice advocacy, personal and community/online advocacy, youth leadership and more. Students will also get to learn from local attorneys and judges, and will require high engagement from all participants through active webcams and microphones.

The deadline to apply for this new program is May 31. The applicants selected for the program and their parents/guardians will be notified directly via email.

To apply, visit Stetson Law New Civic Education Program. If you have questions, email Carmen Johnson, director of diversity initiatives and recruitment, at cjohnso2@law.stetson.edu.