Waynesburg University Stover Scholars visit Governor Corbett, Senators Solobay and Greenleaf and Representative Snyder at State Capitol
Waynesburg University’s Stover Scholars visited Governor Tom Corbett, Senators Tim Solobay (Canonsburg) and Stewart Greenleaf (Bucks County) and Representative Pam Snyder (Jefferson) during a trip to the state capitol in Harrisburg Monday, Feb. 11, 2013.
Showing the Stover Scholars his private office, Governor Corbett pointed to a painting of Pennsylvania’s founder and first governor William Penn and paintings of all subsequent governors, including Benjamin Franklin. Corbett said that he seeks to set the course for the future by being faithful to the legacy of his predecessors.
After touring the capitol, the Stover Scholars were the first group from Greene County to visit newly elected Representative Pam Snyder. Reflecting upon the trappings of her new position, Snyder urged the Stover Scholars to “remember where you came from and maintain your character and humility wherever you find yourself.”
Two Pennsylvania Senators met with the Stover Scholars: Senator Tim Solobay and Senator Stewart Greenleaf. Referring to his background as a state constable, X-Ray technician and firefighter, Solobay said that he draws upon all of his life experiences as a legislator. Stressing his commitment to political independence, Senator Greenleaf said, “You never want to be in politics because you have to have a job.”
Stover Center Director and Assistant Professor of Ethics and Constitutional Law, Lawrence M. Stratton, a Presbyterian minister, opened the Senate session as the guest Chaplain with a prayer.
“The Stover Scholars had an extraordinary experience to thoroughly engage the Governor, two Senators, and our Representative,” said Stratton. “Because of this opportunity, the students will hopefully be inspired to become respected public leaders themselves.”
The Stover Scholars also reflected about their trip to the Commonwealth’s Capitol.
Sophomore Gina Robinson said, “The best part of the day was meeting with Governor Corbett. Hearing his views on budgeting decisions rather than being subject to the bias of the media’s reporting was incredible. I now feel as though I truly understand an issue I never would have without talking to him.”
Senior Zach Mason stated, “Being a Greene County native, it was inspiring to see Representative Snyder in her new leadership role and how she remained humble as she has gained new positions.” Sophomore Jeremy Hinkle commented, “My favorite part of the trip was meeting with Senator Solobay. I was thoroughly impressed by his pragmatic approach to pressing issues. His type of impartiality must be emulated in order to break the great barrier of partisanship that is ever-present in politics.”
Freshman Rachael Sinis observed, “Senator Greenleaf’s encouragement to follow God’s calling and stay in His will was inspirational and comforting to know politicians still follow through with their moral convictions.” Senior Zander Shashura appreciated Senator Greenleaf’s insight, “When you don’t know what to do, put your trust in Christ and do what is right in His eyes and you will do the right thing.”
“The entire trip was an amazing experience, especially meeting the governor of our great Commonwealth,” said freshman J.R. Kautz. “The Stover Scholar program opens a world of opportunities that are not available anywhere else.”
The Stover Center for Constitutional Studies and Moral Leadership is a Waynesburg University program dedicated to appreciating and upholding the moral vision of the framers of the U.S. Constitution.