RELEASED: July 21, 2005

DANVILLE, KY—Congressman Ben Chandler discussed his Kentucky roots and America's role in the world with a gathering of Governor's Scholars on the Centre College campus Monday, July 18.

Before taking questions from the scholars, Chandler formally announced the creation of an internship for Centre students in his Washington, D.C., office. The congressman from Kentucky's Sixth District posed for photos with senior Nikki Smith, a history and government double major from Owensboro, Ky., who will be the first intern in his office.

At least one position with Chandler will be reserved each semester for a student from the College. "This is a special opportunity to have young people involved and get to know the processes of government," said Chandler.

Responsibilities of the internship position include conducting tours of the Capitol, responding to constituent concerns, researching legislative issues, writing letters and working with the congressman's staff on issues that affect the nation and Kentucky.

Chandler noted that he has a family connection to Centre—a grandfather who was a coach at Centre "many moons ago." "Centre College is a special place and Danville is a special town," he said. "I'm proud to represent Centre in the United States Congress."

Chandler went on to discuss the importance of making young people politically aware and active. "While elective office isn't for everyone," said Chandler, "citizenship is one of the most important things to aspire to."

Chandler then had a question-and-answer session with Governor's Scholars from the Political and Legal Issues, Historical Analysis and International Relations classes. The students queried the congressman on a broad range of topics, both domestic and international, from immigration to agriculture to the Darfur crisis and the war in Iraq.

For more Governor's Scholars news:
Jamming, canning and churning with GSP Full story.

Ed McClanahan holds court with Governor’s Scholars July 14, 2005 Full story.

GSP scholars dig Shaker history July 7, 2005 Full story.
From Frisbees to fish, Governor’s Scholars are catching it all June 30, 2005 Full story.
Governor’s Scholars flock back to Centre campus June 23, 2005 Full story.

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Founded in 1819, Centre College is ranked among the U.S. News top 50 national liberal arts colleges. Centre alumni, known for their nation-leading loyalty in annual financial support, include two U.S. vice presidents and two Supreme Court justices. For more, visit http://www.centre.edu/web/elevatorspeech/

For news archives go to http://www.centre.edu/web/news/newsarchive.html.

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