Focus Weeks

Throughout the year, Fellows participate in a series of focus weeks: week-long explorations of specific issues or topics through experiential learning, interviews, discussions and projects. Focus weeks allow Fellows to sharpen their knowledge of a particular issue area or sector by learning from individuals with varying and often divergent viewpoints.

Focus week topics vary by center based on the major industries featured in each community; focus weeks include agriculture, media, public finance, innovation and health care.

Each center participates in State Government Week, featuring an on-site visit to the state capitol, including meetings with state legislators, executive branch officials, lobbyists, journalists, and state department directors and other statewide officials. Fellows in New York, Pittsburgh, and St. Louis have also come together for a National Affairs Week in Washington, D.C. to meet with U.S. legislators as well as journalists, lobbyists, academics and other government officials.