Who Should Apply?
Emerge Connecticut seeks Democratic women who are committed to effective political leadership and are interested in running for elective office and who have:
- Evidence of political leadership experience or potential, and meaningful involvement in the workplace or community;
- Interest in running for political office;
- Ability and desire to build effective networks;
- Ability to articulate a personal political vision;
- Commitment to full participation and the attendance requirements of the trainings.
- Applicants must be women who are Democrats and who reside in the state of Connecticut.
Emerge Connecticut will select 20-25 women from across the state who meet the above criteria and who we believe have the potential to be political leaders.
Emerge embraces diversity and encourages applications from all women regardless of age, race, color, national or ethnic origin, marital status, religious affiliation, sexual orientation, socio-economic status or physical ability. Our mission to build the bench of Democratic women ready to run for office acknowledges both systemic and historic barriers to running for office as well as the barriers women impose on themselves.
COVID Readiness
Emerge Connecticut is following CDC guidelines and Emerge America protocol and plans to move its trainings online at this time. We have had successful online trainings in the past, and are working our hardest to make sure the class of 2021 will have the best possible experience. Please reach out to our Interim Executive Director with any questions at maya@emergect.org.
Time Commitment
The success of the Emerge Connecticut program depends upon commitment to the program’s entire schedule by each participant. Over the six-month period, approximately 70 program hours are scheduled. Sometime outside of regularly scheduled trainings will be necessary for homework and training preparation. While emergencies sometimes arise, attendance at the first day of training is mandatory and absence for any reason will result in a deferral to the following year. Participants selected for the program will have a role in setting the 2021 training schedule.
Interviews
Emerge Connecticut will review completed written applications and select finalists for in-person interviews. Finalists will be invited to attend an interview with the selection committee in locations around Connecticut.
Application Fee
A non-refundable application fee of $35 is required and must be submitted along with a completed application. The application fee can be paid here or by mail with a check payable to EMERGE CONNECTICUT, P.O. Box 722, Willimantic, CT 06226.
Tuition
Tuition for the signature program is $750. Payment plans are available and Emerge Connecticut will assist program members with fundraising their tuition if needed. Financial need should not be a barrier to applying to the program.
The program does take place in various parts of the state on Saturdays, but travel and overnight accommodations may be necessary depending on your proximity to trainings. Emerge Connecticut will endeavor to assist with supporter housing when needed, but travel costs are not covered by the program.
If financial concerns are holding you back from completing your application, please reach out to Interim Executive Director Maya Gomberg at maya@emergect.org. Financial need should not be a barrier to applying to the program.
