CNY Political Leadership Institute Lowers the Temperature on Politics

There is no denying that politics have been heated! That very situation meant that the LGS nonpartisan training program called the CNY Political Leadership Institute had the highest number of participants in its history in 2021.

While graduation was held in person, the program was offered virtually and 41 people learned the nuts and bolts of what it takes to run for office. Led once again by Onondaga County Chair of the Legislature David Knapp (R) and Vice Chair of the New York Democratic Committee Joe Rossi (D), the program also had more people actively running a campaign while taking the class.

“This program has gained attention and relevance over the last couple of years,” said LGS Executive Director Pam Brunet. “We are grateful for the committee and the sponsors who help make it happen,” she added. This year there were participants who were interested in working on political campaigns, as well as those actively running for town office, County Legislature, City of Syracuse Common Council,  judge, and congress.

“A class highlight, however, were two high school participants,” said Brunet.

Here are some post program comments from participants:

“PLI has taught me all of the behind the scenes knowledge of how to run for office that I had never before been exposed to. It has also exposed me to some individuals that I have expanded into my network that I never would have previously met. Now I have never said this about any one thing before, but this program has genuinely changed my life.”

“This program provided me with a wealth of information on all aspects on what I need to do to run for office. This was inspiring as there were no polarized views from the parties.”