The Institute for Democracy, Pluralism, and Community Empowerment at Virginia Commonwealth University proudly presents the inaugural Virginia Government Simulation.
Established in 2024, the VGS provides undergraduate students from across the commonwealth the opportunity to live the life of a lawmaker during a three-day simulation each fall.
Students play the role of an actual sitting Virginia legislator, are expected to research their partisanship and positions, elect party leadership, propose laws, review and amend offered bills, debate, engage in floor action, and send passed legislation on to an internally-elected Governor.
The VGS provides a unique opportunity to meet students from across the state, as well as from different backgrounds and majors. Learning about the role that government plays in our everyday lives is essential to understanding governmental structures and provides knowledge on how to engage with government at the local and state levels. The simulation experience for many students is a transformative one, where they developed skills of communication, compromise, argument based on evidence, logical fallacies and how to discuss the problems that state and local governments face.
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Who Can Participate?
Students from any university, college, or community college in Virginia are eligible to participate in VGS. Registration is $25 per student. For more information, please contact Dr. Amanda Wintersieck, Director of IDPCE, at wintersieal@vcu.edu.
The $25 registration fee for the Virginia Government Simulation (VGS) is designed to help cover the essential costs of the event, particularly the meals provided during the program. This fee contributes to the dinner at the reception on October 3rd and lunch on October 4th. The Institute for Democracy, Pluralism, and Community Empowerment (IDPCE) is subsidizing the difference between the registration fee and the actual cost of the program. However, participants should note that transportation and lodging expenses are not included in this fee. We anticipate that individual colleges will assist students in arranging and covering these additional costs.
What is VGS?
Modeled after the successful Model Illinois Government (MIG) and the Tennessee Intercollegiate State Legislature (TISL), the VGS offers undergraduates a unique opportunity to experience the legislative process firsthand. Participants will take on the roles of Virginia legislators, engaging in activities such as researching positions, electing party leadership, proposing legislation, debating bills, and more. This immersive three-day event aims to foster skills in communication, negotiation, and critical thinking, essential for future civic engagement.
Why Participate?
VGS provides a platform for students to network with peers statewide, gain insights into governmental operations, and explore potential careers in public service. Don't miss this chance to make a difference and prepare for a future in leadership!