When thinking of public policy, I used to envision long debates, intimidating meetings, and the complexity of navigating politics. As a college student, this is a scary career to break into. Ohio Corn & Wheat’s Collegiate Policy Academy (CPA) allowed me to enter the public policy realm with confidence and the skills I needed to be successful.
My view of public policy has completely changed thanks to being a CPA participant. Instead of daunting conversations, I now picture having conversations about farm issues and networking with industry leaders — sometimes even over popcorn and a game of cornhole. The new face of policy is powerful, energizing, and attainable.
I heard about the Collegiate Policy Academy though my network connecting me with program alumni. The program presented me with a one-of-a-kind opportunity to have a real role in advocacy meetings in Washington, D.C. I met representatives and political professionals who wanted to hear my story in agriculture.
The CPA program only enhanced my desire and opportunity to be involved in the governmental decision-making process.
As a participant, you are given serious opportunities, and the responsibility that comes with that.
First, CPAs participate in a two-day professional development workshop to learn the ins and outs of advocacy, meet fellow students from across the country, and the Ohio Corn & Wheat staff.
The time we spend working on professional development skills gives students the opportunity to ask questions and learn how to act in these settings with the security of a team that’s on their side.
The entire point of the Collegiate Policy Academy is to set students up for success. Participants are taught the unspoken rules of the professional world — including meeting and dining etiquette, the details of dressing for the part, and how important it is to be involved in issues you care about. Students also receive free professional headshots they can use on social media profiles, resumes, business cards, or any other purpose.
After the two-day workshop, attendees put their new skills to use. They spend one day in Columbus at the Ohio Statehouse practicing their advocacy, learning how to work as a group, and getting to know local political offices.
Then, in March, the group goes to Washington, D.C. They become the boots on the ground for Ohio’s grain farmers and are fully-fledged advocates. The CPAs are matched with groups of farmers and Ohio Corn & Wheat staff members to meet with lawmakers, regulatory departments, and international embassies. They participate in meetings, write after-action reports, send thank you notes, and fully engage in the team.
We wrap up the program with a reception to connect the current CPA class, program alumni, and Ohio Corn & Wheat members. This networking event can get students internships and valuable professional connections.
Through every step of the CPA program, students are set up for success within the agriculture and policy fields.
No longer an intimidated college freshman, I am a proud alumna encouraging you to apply for the Collegiate Policy Academy. This program changed the course of my studies and set me on a path of achievement in my career.
The application is open now and will close on October 13th, 2025. Apply Today!
Morgan Evans is the current Ohio Corn & Wheat Intern, an alumna of the Collegiate Policy Academy, and a Senior at Wilmington College.
