Jennifer Mossgraber
University of Missouri - St. LouisJennifer Mossgraber is an engaged student leader majoring in Political Science. Jen serves as President of the Political Science Academy, an organization committed to fostering civil discourse and increasing civic engagement. She has strengthened the participation of this organization and facilitated many successful bipartisan events since joining this group. As a member of the College of Arts and Sciences Dean's Student Council, her efforts make a difference for all students in the College. Jen also goes beyond the campus community to represent the University of Missouri System as a legislative intern and Voter Registration Coordinator for the Associated Students of the University of Missouri. Her work as a legislative intern gives her first-hand experience working with lawmakers in the state's capitol and lobbying on behalf of the UM System's students. Jen is developing valuable skills through this work, and her impact goes beyond action on campus and on behalf of college students. As an activist for social justice and through her involvement in community organizations such HateBrakers, she also works to increase equity and improve the lives of her follow citizens. These skills and experience have prepared Jennifer to thrive as a Newman Civic Fellow.
Personal Statement
Being a student at the University of Missouri - St. Louis has taught me a number of things, but perhaps most significantly, it has shown me the incredible importance of being engaged in one's community. By being involved in student groups like the Political Science Academy, the College of Arts and Sciences Dean's Student Council, and the Associated Students of the University of Missouri, I have come to understand how collective goals and efforts can strengthen and encourage individual ones, and vice versa. Participating in the UMSL and broader UM system communities has helped me learn about my own abilities and limitations, but it has also shown me that almost nothing can be done without the support and contributions of others. By being of and for the community, UMSL continually encourages its students to be likewise committed to one another. I strive to reflect this mission in my work with the Political Science Academy. As the group's president, I manage several campus wide events aimed at increasing student understanding of, and engagement with, political processes. We promote civil discourse by hosting moderated debates and offer opportunities for students to meet and engage with elected officials.