The problems and opportunities facing greater Los Angeles are the focus of this five-day exploration of Southern California politics. From analyzing questions of law and justice with the Chief of Police and District Attorney to interacting with the award-winning staff of the Los Angeles Times, the Institute is a chance to debate and discuss politics with leaders and students from across the region.

A daily Speakers Program takes place in the rooms and offices where L.A. leaders decide public policy, including City Hall, the County Hall of Administration, the LA Times Building, the LAUSD meeting rooms and Parker Center. Student-run debates and political simulations round out the hands-on curriculum, challenging you to hone your speaking and leadership skills while working closely with peers who share your interests.   

 

The program is generously supported by the Gene A. Burd Endowment. Burd, who grew up in East Los Angeles and attended UCLA, donated $500,000 in 2007 to The Junior Statesmen Foundation to permanently underwrite the Institute.  

Burd is a graduate of the 1948 Junior Statesmen Summer School. He is also a past recipient of the Montezuma JSA scholarship, which was awarded by Professor Ernest A. Rogers.

Burd, now 78, still teaches full-time at the School of Journalism at the University of Austin at Texas.

Topics to be explored include:
• Political Leadership in a Multicultural Society

• Is the LA School System Providing a Quality Education for All Students?
• Old and New Media in LA
• County Government and Regional Issues: Health Care, Transportation, Public Safety and Immigration