Program Focus and Results
Established in 1964, EPFP™ has produced over 6000 alumni, who now lead K-12 and higher education organizations; state, local and federal government agencies; public policy groups; foundations and nonprofits; and the private sector.
In 12 EPFP™ sites -- from Connecticut to Massachusetts, Mississippi to Washington -- Fellows sharpen their understanding of leadership (and of themselves as leaders), build their knowledge of policy issues and processes, and extend their professional networks as they hone their capacity to shape and carry out effective public policy. In provocative discussions with policy "players," scholars and clients; on-site visits to agencies and state capitals; and national meetings with peers from other sites, each EPFP™ cohort explores the universal themes embodied in topical policy issues and seeks to apply timeless values of democracy to the unique conditions of today.
Accordingly, when they complete the program, EPFP™ Fellows should be able to use an expanded range of technical knowledge and skills, experience and understanding, and dispositions to act effectively in interpreting and applying enduring values of a democratic society and principles of educational and human service professions to changing contemporary social conditions and policy problems.
The EPFP™ curriculum framework has three major cornerstones. Program activities concentrate on developing leaders, increasing leaders' knowledge and building a leadership network.
Participation in EPFP™ yields important results. Through EPFP, Fellows:
- Broaden their understanding of the policy process, demystifying what is to many an opaque, remote phenomenon, by exploring such questions as: How is policy made? Who makes it? Who influences it? How do issues get on the policy agenda? How does the average citizen play a role?
- Increase knowledge of the issues that have an impact on the lives of children and youth and better understand the connections and conflicts among domestic issues;
- Enhance their potential to assume greater leadership responsibility and in particular hone skills in communication, decision-making, and coalition-building needed for leaders of and partners in collaborative change efforts;
- Expand their professional reach and resources through a multicultural, multidisciplinary network of policymakers and practitioners at the local, state and national levels.
As a result of the EPFP™ experience, Fellows' professional lives become more interesting and productive, and employers are rewarded with better informed and more skillful employees.
The program combines events of national scope with state and local activities specific to each site to provide a rich professional development experience for approximately 200 Fellows each year.
Back to top
