Next week, we are excited to open applications for Bridge to Batten, a new program designed to support historically marginalized UVA students in their aspiration to become effective, engaged leaders poised to create meaningful change in their communities and the world at large. Bridge to Batten aims to increase the diversity of the School’s undergraduate programs to demonstrate our commitment to fostering an inclusive, welcoming, and supportive community better reflecting the world we wish to serve.

The program will have three components: a 1-credit CR/NC Spring 2023 seminar designed to encourage academic, personal, and professional exploration of the public policy world; dedicated advising and support from faculty and professional staff at the Batten School to help navigate university resources; and peer mentorship to deepen relationships through community-driven and social opportunities to connect with members of the Batten student community.

We welcome applications from 1st Year underrepresented students at the University of Virginia with an interest in Batten’s Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy & Leadership or Accelerated Master of Public Policy who identify as first generation or low income, LGBTQ+, and/or racial or ethnic minorities. Selected participants will have exclusive access to workshops and programming throughout the Spring 2023 semester and will receive preferential placement in the Fall 2023 offering of LPPP 2200: Introduction to Public Policy, a prerequisite for the BA program. Bridge to Batten students will continue to receive individualized, tailored advising into their second year in the lead-up to application to one of Batten’s programs.

Keep an eye on our website and weekly e-newsletter for more information about next week’s application launch. If you have questions or want to learn more, contact Anne Carter Mulligan, Director of Undergraduate Admissions, by email or book an appointment today!