Founded in 1997 by Leon and Sylvia Panetta, the Panetta Institute serves the entire California State University system plus several other schools. Under the direction of Secretary and Mrs. Panetta, the Institute provides a variety of study opportunities in government, politics and public policy, and sponsors a range of other programs.
Each year, the Leon Panetta Lecture Series brings national political leaders and policy thinkers to the Monterey Peninsula to discuss important issues facing the nation and our world. In addition, the Institute conducts a periodic nationwide survey of college students, gauging their interest in politics and civic involvement.
Their Congressional Internship Program gives selected students an opportunity to get a firsthand look at the legislative process by working in a congressional office in Washington, D.C.
If you are an SCU student with questions regarding either of these programs, you may email Pam Doherty, department manager for the Political Science Department. Please do not contact the Panetta Institute for Public Policy directly.
