2008 Woodie Awards
Missouri politicians encourage student involvement, leadership
By: Emily Cooper
Issue date: 9/27/07 Section: News
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"Do what you think is right. If people don't agree with it, they don't agree with it," May said.
As women, both Reardon and Sims faced great challenges during their time in office. Sims, a Republican, was elected in 1994 to represent the 24th district and was one of two women on the senate.
Reardon, a Democrat and representative of the 98th district, was the youngest female to be elected to the Missouri House of Representatives. Men would often tell her that no girlfriends or secretaries were allowed on the floor. Both women overcame the opposition and went on to head up committees and help create legislation.
After the speakers told of how they entered politics unintentionally and went on to make significant changes for their districts, the topic of discussion became what an individual can do to make a difference.
"Go on Web sites and read the upcoming bills; stay informed. Get in contact with people who will support you, and join an advocacy group," Reardon said.
Reardon, an adjunct professor, advocated getting involved with an internship at the state capitol in Jefferson City, Mo. For 15 credit hours, students can shadow a legislator for a summer.
"My time in Senate was the best time of my life. Get involved," Sims said.
Despite the three legislators being from different parties and different backgrounds, all agreed that the only way to make a difference is to get involved and stay informed.
As women, both Reardon and Sims faced great challenges during their time in office. Sims, a Republican, was elected in 1994 to represent the 24th district and was one of two women on the senate.
Reardon, a Democrat and representative of the 98th district, was the youngest female to be elected to the Missouri House of Representatives. Men would often tell her that no girlfriends or secretaries were allowed on the floor. Both women overcame the opposition and went on to head up committees and help create legislation.
After the speakers told of how they entered politics unintentionally and went on to make significant changes for their districts, the topic of discussion became what an individual can do to make a difference.
"Go on Web sites and read the upcoming bills; stay informed. Get in contact with people who will support you, and join an advocacy group," Reardon said.
Reardon, an adjunct professor, advocated getting involved with an internship at the state capitol in Jefferson City, Mo. For 15 credit hours, students can shadow a legislator for a summer.
"My time in Senate was the best time of my life. Get involved," Sims said.
Despite the three legislators being from different parties and different backgrounds, all agreed that the only way to make a difference is to get involved and stay informed.
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