ADA, Okla. – East Central University’s President’s Leadership Class (PLC) recently traveled to Washington, D.C. over fall break. This trip provided students in the program with a unique opportunity to explore national monuments and landmarks in an educational setting.
“The PLC Program offers a cultural experience for our students each year,” said ECU President, Wendell Godwin. “This year the trip to Washington, D.C. allowed our students to engage in our country’s rich history.
PLC is one of the premier freshmen scholarship programs made up of high potential students who demonstrate leadership skills in high school. Each year 20-25 students are selected for the program. Members of PLC have opportunities to interact with leaders on campus, within the community and at the state-level, volunteering at local schools and other events and traveling to major U.S. cities to expand their knowledge on history and culture.
“Everyone seemed to have a different highlight,” continued Godwin. “But for me, it was an amazing experience to walk the hallways of buildings where so many leaders faced the most challenging times in our country’s history. I know our students enjoyed the experience and we appreciate the donors who made this experience possible.”
During the trip, students visited several Washington, D.C. landmarks including the Smithsonian museums, the U.S. Capitol, the Library of Congress, the Arlington National Cemetery, the Washington Monument and more.
“The trip to Washington, D.C. was nothing short of amazing!” said PLC student, Dillion Edwards. “It brought such a different atmosphere to me than the one that I’m used to. One with a big city life that is so fun to experience, and PLC gave me this opportunity. To tour our Nation’s Capital, to go on a night cruise on the Potomac River, to visit the famous Smithsonians, to take guided tours through this historic city, and of course the famous monuments, which are breathtaking to be in the presence of. I got to do all of this with 33 amazing people, who made this trip even better than I could imagine. I’m beyond grateful to have received this trip and opportunity.”
PLC student, Emery Seals-Rutherford added, “This memorable experience, especially exploring the National Archives, was truly enriching. I was fascinated by the historical documents and artifacts preserved there. My favorite moment, however, was seeing the Vietnam Women’s Memorial. Highlighting the bravery and sacrifices of the women and men who served during the Vietnam War made a significant impact on me. Overall, my time in D.C. was inspiring, and I'm grateful for the memories I created.”
Students who are selected for the PLC Program must be first-time, full-time freshmen for the semester they apply for, among other qualifications. The students receive a scholarship of $1,500 per semester including a $750 Tuition Waiver and $750 Housing Waiver each semester. The scholarship will continue up to two full semesters with an option to be selected for two more semesters.
Cutline: Members of PLC with ECU President Wendell Godwin and ECU Chief of Staff Haley Vickers in Washington D.C.