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George Mason developing statewide undergraduate civics course with seed funding; commission may seek additional $35,000
Summary
Senator Dave Marsden reported that George Mason University's Schar School and partners have begun developing an undergraduate civic education course with $15,000 in initial funds; the commission may request an additional $35,000 to complete the project and make the course broadly available to colleges statewide.
Senator Dave Marsden reported progress on an undergraduate civic education course developed with George Mason University and partner organizations.
Marsden said initial planning reached agreement that a course could be developed for delivery over two semesters and made broadly available to colleges across the Commonwealth rather than restricted to a single campus. He told the commission organizers had started design work with an initial $15,000 provided to George Mason and that his original request had been for $50,000 to complete a broader effort. Marsden said he would discuss an additional $35,000 budget amendment with legislative appropriations leaders and that the course would emphasize hands‑on civic experiences such as attending school-board meetings, visiting electoral boards, internships or other practical civic activities.
Marsden said he and partners want to ensure the course is accessible to students across majors and not only political science majors. He asked that the Schar School present a course outline at a future commission meeting so members can comment before the commission considers seeking the remainder of the requested funds.
