The gang's all here! Time for introductions, academy expectations and the meaning of "public affairs". #MPAA2019

Had a delicious meal thanks to @MoStateDining before an intriguing presentation about difficult conversations with Matt Scott. #MPAA2019 #difficultconversations

Day 2 begins with a conversation about values, personal statements and their relation to public affairs. #MPAA2019

Our first guest of the day, Rachel Carter, spoke to the group about her work at Harmony House and the connection to issues of poverty in the community. #MPAA2019

We had a great time hearing about @Thefairbankssgf and the impact of community based programs! Thanks, Emily! On to the Springfield Community Gardens! #MPAA2019

A trip to Springfield Garden to hear about food justice, dinner at Garbo's Pizzeria and an evening brainstorming our Greater Good Projects has made for a good end of Day 2. These students are game changers! #MPAA2019

The Academy is starting out their morning hearing counselors' stories and commitments to #publicaffairs. #MPAA2019 #Day3

Excited to hear from George Connor from @MSUpolsci about the ends and outs of college this afternoon. #MPAA2019 #College101

"Talent is universal, opportunity is not." Truly enjoyed hearing from Nate Schlueter and visiting/serving at Eden Village. Chronic homelessness is a big issue in SGF, but this organization is making a difference. gatheringtree.org/eden-village# #MPAA2019

Day 4 begins with a tour of the Springfield tunnels and stream clean up with Jeff of the Watershed Committee of the Ozarks. #MPAA2019 #waterquality

Working hard on our For the Greater Good projects this afternoon. Something unique about the Academy is its tie to ACTION. We are learning AND doing. #MPAA2019

We wrapped up our day with dinner at BYOPizza and a service project at Convoy of Hope, where we packed meals and items to send to those affected by wildfires in Colorado. #MPAA2019

Field trip time! We are in Jefferson City on Day 5 to hear from SC Judge Paul Wilson and visit the Capitol! #MPAA2019 #forthegreatergood

We are EXCITED to hear from Dr. Lyle Foster today! We will be visiting Commercial Street and hearing about Springfield history. #MPAA2019 #publicaffairs

Microaggressions. Cultural competence. Cultural consciousness. Ethical leadership. Public Affairs. #BetheChange #MPAA2019

After a delicious meal at Big Momma's Coffee, we are painting at McGregor Elementary School. It means a lot to walk in to a place and feel a sense of pride. #MPAA2019 #pride #performance

We are visiting Silver Springs Park this evening-the city's only park designated for black residents during segregation and a stop on the newly established African American Heritage Trail in Greene County. #MPAA2019 #historymatters City of Springfield

After finalizing our "For the Greater Good" projects, we heard from Janelle Reed, Outreach & Special Events Manager of Springfield Victory Mission about the resources the organization provides including a food and clothing pantry, numerous programs and case management. #MPAA2019

Spending time reflecting about the week and the interconnectedness of issues like poverty, diversity, and public affairs. #MPAA2019 #forthegreatergood #reflection

That's a wrap for this year's Pat Walker Missouri Public Affairs Academy. What an amazing week. Congratulations to the class of 2019!! #MPAA2019 #publicaffairs #forthegreatergood