Katie Jacobs-Stanton, Obama’s Director of Citizen Participation and Rhodes Alumna ’91, came to Memphis to share knowledge about new technological platforms that allow citizens to engage with their government and communities and participate in decision making. On September 22, she spoke at a Celebrate What’s Right luncheon cohosted by The Leadership Academy and Rhodes College, and sponsored by First Tennessee Foundation.
Thanks to all who attended, and to those who added their questions to the queue here on MemphisConnect! Please post a comment with your thoughts about the luncheon, and your pictures. And watch for our own recap of the event soon!
updated September 22
What are the President’s expectations for citizen participation in terms of being personally accountable for the future of this country as well as holding government accountable for the direction that the country is going and for the actions that government is taking to get us there?
What are your goals (the President’s goals) for engaging skilled volunteers and professionals in the public sector?
What can be done to ensure that local, regional and state leaders will sign on with these new technologies and that those who do speak out will be heard and taken seriously?
What is the tentative planned approach for distributing the new technology platforms to support addressing the needs of those citizens in the community that are economically challenged and those that are elderly?
How does the President envision or encourage coordination of effort between the non-profit sector, National Service, and faith-based outreach programs.
What was the impetus to create your position in the White House Administration?
Please discuss any organization under way to take advantage of volunteers , using their skills, knowledge and talent. For example using out of work IT professionals in their field