SEN. HARRIS JOINS ASPEN-RODEL FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM

SEN. HARRIS JOINS ASPEN-RODEL FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM

TN's Senate Minority Leader selected for prestigious program

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Tennessee Senate Minority Leader Lee Harris was one of 24 selected nationwide for the Aspen Institute-Rodel Fellowships in Public Leadership program.  

The Rodel Fellowship program seeks American’s emerging political leaders with reputations for intellect, thoughtfulness and a commitment to civil dialogue. The fellowship is open by invitation only to individuals who are in elected to office and who are ideally under the age of 50.

“My understanding is that this experience will be informative, interesting and challenging," Sen. Harris said. “The fellowship is a chance to stretch leadership skills and expand our knowledge on the most significant issue facing our nation and the world,” Sen. Harris said. “This is an opportunity to step out of normal confines and talk about ideas, philosophies and values that are at this country’s core.”

The program lasts for 24 months and consists of three weekend-long seminars, generally held in Aspen, Colo. Past participants from include Andy Berke, Mayor of Chattanooga (2013); Tre Hargett, Secretary of State (2010); Tomeka Hart, President, Memphis School Board (2010); Jamie Woodson, Speaker Pro-Tem, Tennessee State Senate (2009);  Gavin Newsom, Lt. Governor of California (2011); Jack Conway, Attorney General of Kentucky (2008); Gabrielle Giffords, State Senator, Arizona (inaugural class); Michael Steele, Lt. Governor, Maryland (inaugural class).