Welcome to Harvard Model Congress 2012! As the chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, I am looking forward to working with each of you to address some of the most pressing public policy issues currently facing the nation’s citizenry. I hope that our work both within and outside the committee room will make your Harvard Model Congress experience as enjoyable and memorable as possible.
As the sole source of congressional authority concerning all discretionary spending, the Appropriations Committee is arguably the most powerful and influential committee in the Senate. The Appropriations Committee drafts legislation that allocates funding to the numerous agencies, departments, and organizations that constitute the federal government, and its extensive jurisdiction impacts practically every aspect of public policy. Consequently, in addition to discussing issues directly related to our committee, we will be responsible for determining the appropriate levels of funding that will be allocated to the government programs and organizations authorized by other Senate committees as well. The appropriations process can be complicated, divisive, and somewhat overwhelming at times, but I hope that our experience together will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of how this complex yet essential aspect of the federal government operates.
More importantly though, Harvard Model Congress is supposed to be both educational and enjoyable, and I hope that each and every one of you will have a great time debating interesting policy issues, drafting purposeful and effective legislation, becoming friends with bright and impassioned peers from across the country, and ultimately having as much fun as possible during your stay here in Boston. Over the course of the conference, you will have many opportunities to refine your public speaking skills, improve your ability to cooperate with delegates with drastically different political beliefs and ideologies, and enhance your knowledge of how the United States government functions on a daily basis. I encourage you to take full advantage of these opportunities by actively participating in committee sessions, interacting with Senators from both sides of the aisle, and allowing yourself to test the limits of your comfort zone. I assure you that these efforts will make your Harvard Model Congress experience all the more rewarding.
Finally, I would like to take the time to briefly introduce myself. I was born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana, and I am currently a junior at Harvard concentrating in economics with a secondary in history. In addition to my studies, I am actively involved with Harvard Model Congress Europe and Harvard Model Congress Asia, the club curling team, an a cappella singing group, and the intramural sports program. I also enjoy traveling, attending professional sporting events, reading the newspaper, playing sports such as basketball, baseball, football, and squash, and spending time with my friends and family.
Once again, welcome to the Senate Committee on Appropriations, and I am looking forward to meeting all of you at the conference!
Sincerely,