n an inspiring intersection of academia and community involvement, Marley Rokas, a dedicated senior at Sul Ross State University (SRSU), made significant strides in bridging the gap between students and local government leaders. On December 12, Rokas, a Political Science major, showcased her policy brief focused on enhancing women’s representation in government, a project stemming from her coursework in PS 3315: Women & Politics, under the guidance of Dr. Jessica Velasco.
The meeting, which doubled as a requirement for Rokas to obtain honors credit, turned into a vibrant forum for discussing the pressing issue of gender representation in politics. The event brought together prominent women leaders from various political backgrounds, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and strategies. The attendees included Sarah Vasquez, Brewster County Clerk; Monica McBride, Chair of the Brewster County Republican Party; Judy Stokes from Alpine City Council, Ward 1; Dr. Jessica Velasco, Assistant Professor of Political Science and Public Administration at SRSU; Catherine Eaves, Mayor of Alpine; Mary Bell Lockhart, Chair of the Brewster County Democratic Party; and Sara Colando, Brewster County Commissioner.
This gathering was not only a testament to Rokas’ academic rigor but also highlighted the community’s commitment to supporting young minds in political discourse. The robust discussion following Rokas’ presentation reflected a shared commitment to enhancing women’s roles in governance and civic participation, with insights spanning the political spectrum.
The initiative underscores Sul Ross State University’s dedication to practical learning experiences, connecting classroom theories with real-world applications. The Political Science program at SRSU, as demonstrated by this event, encourages students to engage actively with their community and political leaders, fostering a hands-on approach to education.
For individuals interested in learning more about the Political Science program at Sul Ross State University, they can reach out to Dr. Jessica Velasco at jessica.velasco@sulross.edu. Additionally, inquiries about the University’s Honors Program can be directed to Dr. Kathy Stein at kstein@sulross.edu.
This event not only marks a significant academic achievement for Marley Rokas but also serves as a shining example of how higher education institutions like SRSU are instrumental in shaping future leaders and fostering community engagement.
Image by Sul Ross State University
