History of the Jefferson Public Citizens Program
The JPC program plan evolved from several major university planning initiatives and priorities over the past several years including: the Public Service and Outreach Commission, the Commission on Diversity and Equity, the Ten Year Academic Plan, the Quality Enhancement Plan, and the Commission on the Future of the University. The program format has been informed by study of similar programs at other universities such as Stanford University, Duke University, and University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill among others.
Initial funding was provided by the Board of Visitors to support strategic initiatives recommended by the Commission on the Future of the University, The Jefferson Public Citizens program was among those initiatives to receive start up support. The University Community Partnerships Office was missioned to advance this program in addition to developing and expanding academic community engagement at the university. The university seeks philanthropic support to ensure the program’s longterm growth and success.
The Center for Undergraduate Excellence provides administrative support and works in partnership with the VP for Student Affairs office as well as with appropriate schools, units, and departments across grounds. Students will continue to take regular university courses as offered by U.Va. schools and departments. Students leading research and service team projects are advised by faculty members and mentored by graduate students.
Faculty courses supported by the JPC will eventually reach hundreds of students across grounds. We plan to grow the program by 25% each year.
Fall 2008 Executive Implementation Team
View the JPC presentation to the Board of Visitors (Oct. 2008)
Visit the Frequently Asked Questions for more information regarding the program.
Staff
Brian Cullaty, Director of Undergraduate Research Opportunities, 434-924-3306, brc7q@virginia.edu
Tasha Cherry, Web and Communications Manager, 434-982-2708, tasha@virginia.edu
Deirdre Davie, JPC Program Assistant, 434-982-2016, ddavie@virginia.edu