High school students can now apply to Puller, Amundson institutes

2016 Puller Institute students pose for a picture with Governor Terry McAuliffe.

High school juniors and seniors can now apply for two programs that offer them the opportunity to see how the Virginia General Assembly works up close.

The 2017 Puller Institute, created by State Sen. Scott Surovell (D-36), is now in its second year. The program accepts six students either in their junior or senior year of high school. The students will get the chance to travel to Richmond from Jan. 29-31, where they’ll view the legislative process in both the House and Senate chambers, meet politicians, and tour historic sites. There is no cost to the student.

Surovell named the Puller Institute after Toddy Puller, who served as the 36th district’s senator for many years and still lives in the Mount Vernon area.

Students must live in the 36th Senate District to be accepted. The application and more information about the Puller Institute can be found on Surovell’s website. The deadline to apply is Dec. 15.

Now in its seventh year, the 2017 Amundson Institute is sponsored by Del. Paul Krizek (D-44). This program accepts four students in either their junior or senior year of high school.

Students in the program get the opportunity to travel to Richmond for two days (Jan. 30-31) and see the legislative process in action. There is no cost to the student.

The Amundson Institute is named after Kris Amundson, who created the program while serving as a delegate in the 44th House district. In 2012, Surovell renamed the program after her during his time as that district’s representative.

Students must live in the 44th House District to be accepted. More information about the Amundson Institute and application instructions can be found on Krizek’s website. The deadline to apply is Nov. 30.