Altoona, PA, April 28, 2010 – On Thursday, May 6, 2010, Senator John H. Eichelberger, Jr. will host select high school juniors at Penn State Altoona for his 2010 William Penn Leadership Program.

Students representing 19 high schools from Bedford, Blair, Fulton, and Huntingdon counties will roll up their sleeves and experience government up close and personal.  Students will debate legislation they have researched, hear from experts in technology, and interact with their peers and Senator Eichelberger.

Students will debate two bills introduced in the 2009-2010 Legislative Session.  Senate Bill 832 would require screening for illegal drug use by applicants for public assistance.  Senate Bill 1304 would amend the Pennsylvania Constitution to provide for term limits on members of the General Assembly.

“I look forward to this event each year.  The William Penn Leadership Program is a terrific way for students to experience the legislative process, going beyond the textbook.  This is designed as a non-partisan event that allows students to learn how to articulate a position and how to move a bill through the legislative process.  The goal is to help students develop an interest in good citizenship and to give them a better understanding of their government,” Senator Eichelberger says.

WHO: State Senator John H. Eichelberger, Jr.

WHAT: 2010 William Penn Leadership Program

WHEN: Thursday, May 6, 2010, 7:45 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

WHERE: Penn State Altoona

Misciagna Family Center for Performing Arts – Hite Lobby

Media RSVP is appreciated.

*See attached list of participating schools.

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William Penn Leadership Program

2010

Participating Schools

Bedford County

·       Northern Bedford

·       Bedford Area

·       Chestnut Ridge

·       Everett

·       Tussey Mountain

Blair County

·       Altoona

·       Bellwood

·       Bishop Guilfoyle

·       Central

·       Claysburg Kimmel

·       Hollidaysburg

·       Tyrone

·       Williamsburg

Fulton County

·       Forbes Road

·       Southern Fulton

Huntingdon County

·       Huntingdon

·       Juniata Valley

·       Mount Union

·       Southern Huntingdon

Please contact school directly for names of students.