Wheeler Center launches think tank for young professionals interested in Montana’s future

The Burton K. Wheeler Center for Public Policy is launching a summer colloquium for young professional leaders under 35 years of age with a five-day river expedition where participants will brainstorm on ideas to advance the future of Montana.

The inaugural Envision Montana Under-35 summer colloquium will be held Aug. 16-22 on the Salmon River. The trip begins and ends at the Flying R Guest Ranch in Darby.

During the week, participants will both lead and generate discussion on energy, education, agriculture, health, government, business and culture. The group will produce a white paper and a short film.

Costs for the professionally guided seven-day trip are $400, which includes all expenses except transportation to and from Darby.

Organizers say they are seeking 25 participants who reflect a diverse, representative and balanced pool of young Montanans who will network, stimulate dialog and bring effective solutions back to their organizations and communities.

"Montana’s future belongs to its youth," said Ralph Johnson, director of the Wheeler Center, which is based at Montana State University. "During this think tank event, participants will brainstorm ideas and offer perspectives for the future of the state.

"It’s a unique concept designed by and for younger people. I wish I could go, but I’m past the age limit!"

To download an application, go to:
https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0B3p8Tg9uqlMGYWE0NDUwOGYtYjZlYy00YjVjLWE2ZDYtZmE5NmVhNjVkMDhi&hl=en.

(You’ll need to download form, copy to a word or other file, then attach to an email to the U35gmail address.)

For more information, e-mail [email protected] or call 994-0336.

The Burton K. Wheeler Center for Public Policy based at MSU is a non-partisan center that promotes the discussion, analysis and eventual resolution of critical issues facing Montana and the region.

To learn more about the Wheeler Center, go to http://www.wheelercenter.org/.