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Hundreds of Western Pennsylvania Students Attend "Government Outreach 2011"

October 19, 2011

Bradford, PA – Students from high schools throughout the Western part of the 5th Congressional District today attended a government seminar, “Government Outreach 2011,” at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford. “Government Outreach 2011” – hosted by U.S. Representative Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson, R-Howard,” and sponsored by the University of Pittsburgh – offered students insight into the role of the federal government and future career and education opportunities. Hundreds of students from over 16 area high schools were in attendance.

The Seminar’s activities included a welcome from Livingston Alexander, President of the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, remarks from numerous motivational speakers, and career opportunity presentations from several event sponsors, including Ms. Amy Oswald, of Joy Mining Machinery.

“It’s a tremendous opportunity to have students from schools from all over the congressional district here at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford,” said Thompson, in welcoming the students. “I’m hoping that out of the conversations we have today, some of the students will learn new insight into how the world works, the functions of government, and maybe even find a career path or realize a passion.”

Thompson later spoke to his own education and career background, emphasizing the importance of a good education in creating opportunity. “Education has been a tool – a key to success and advancement,” said Thompson. During intermission, area high school students discussed their experience at “Government Outreach 2011,” including Page and Ashley from Bradford Area High School.

Two guest speakers were Penn State Professor Dr. Lawrence (Larry) A. Schardt, the author of “The Magic Moment: Creating a Lifetime of Happiness and Success,” and Mr. Robb Armstrong, the creator of the syndicated comic strip “Jump Start,” which runs in more than 450 newspapers in 8 countries. Both individuals offered motivational speeches on pursuing dreams and finding success in life. Similarly, Thompson challenged students to pursue their dreams. “If you have a passion, take a risk, and get after your dreams,” he said.

Prior to being elected to Congress, Thompson spent 28 years as a therapist, rehabilitation services manager and a licensed nursing home administrator, where he learned firsthand the importance of access to quality healthcare in rural communities. During the seminar, Thompson added that his passion for “making a difference in people’s lives,” is what ultimately led him into the field of healthcare and on to run for Congress, where a key focus of his work is advancing policy solutions in the area healthcare.

The seminar, a two-day event, will continue tomorrow in Lock Haven, PA, at Lock Haven University, the morning of Thursday, October 20, 2011.

To view video of Bradford Area High School Students, click here.

To view additional photos from Government Outreach 2011, click here.

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Issues:Education