Last Semester when it came time to select this fall's classes, I jumped at the opportunity to take a class on local government taught by former Onondaga County Executive Nick Pirro. He retired at the end of last year after serving for 20 years as the county's leader, and accepted an invitation from SU's Maxwell School to teach this class under the Public Affairs department.
I knew this was right the right decision from the minute I walked into the classroom. Mr. Pirro introduced himself by walking to each person's desk and shaking their hand. He stressed that he was new at the whole teaching thing, and that the syllabus could be changed to make sure that all of our questions were answered. There would be no need for a textbook in this class - he would provide important documents and all the insider's information not available in any bookstore.
So far we have already had three guest speakers from the greater Syracuse community: a civic engagement leader, a town supervisor, and a village mayor. Next week we will talk to Syracuse Mayor Matt Driscoll, and soon we will talk to either the new county executive or a top level county official.
I see this as a goldmine for an aspiring local reporter - to have a class that not only gives you contact after contact, but all of the background on how government works at the local level. The challenges, successes, and policies that are worked on everyday. The need for governments to streamline to become efficient and financially solvent. This type of class should be required for all journalism students. Three hours a week is not enough! I will keep you posted on how the rest of the semester goes!
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