Nonpartisan academy prepares women to run for office

CATEGORIES: November 2017, Voices
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50-50 in 2020 opened registration on Nov. 8 for its fourth biennial Blueprint for Winning Academy, which is scheduled for Jan. 18-20, 2018, at the Hilton Garden Inn in Johnston, Iowa.

The academy is open to all women running in 2018 or later for the Iowa Legislature, other statewide offices and the U.S. Congress and their campaign managers. The training features sessions on campaign finance and organization, fund-raising strategies, getting media coverage, using social media, and one-on-one image and message coaching by nationally-known communication expert Chris Jahnke.

The $350 registration fee includes three days of programming, a campaign workbook, all meals and breaks, and two nights in a shared hotel room. Those registering before the Jan. 5 early-bird deadline will receive a $50 discount. Scholarships are available.

In addition to the training sessions, the academy will offer an opportunity for participants to meet with representatives from both major political parties to discuss the party’s role in their campaigns. The opening evening features a dessert and wine networking session with current and former women legislators and potential mentors.

50-50 in 2020 has been offering the Blueprint for Winning Academy in January each general election year since 2012. Established in 2010, 50-50 in 2020 is a nonpartisan, issue-neutral, not-for-profit organization working to help Iowa women run for state and federal office.