Southern California Cabinet Application

CABINET APPLICATION
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA STATE
2015 – 2016
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction Letter………………………………………………………………………………….3
Deadlines………………………………………………………………………………………………4
Important Dates…………………………………………………………………………………….4
Contact Information……………………………………………………………………………….4
Application Questions…………………………………………………………………………….5
State Cabinet Positions at a Glance…………………………………………………………..6
Convention Department……………………………………………………………………….7-9
Debate Department…………………………………………………………………………..10-11
Chapter Affairs Department………………………………………………………………..11-12
Expansion Department…………………………………………………………………………..13
Fundraising Department………………………………………………………………….…13-14
Publicity & Technology Department………………………………………………….…14-17
Advocacy Department……………………………………………………………………….17-18
Angeles Regional Cabinet…………………………………………………………………..19-22
Southern Empire Regional Cabinet………………………………………………………23-27
Channel Islands Regional Cabinet…………………………………………………….…28-31
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Dear Fellow Statesmen and Stateswomen,
Congratulations on your decision to further your involvement within the
Southern California Junior State! We would like to commend you for your
willingness to help our organization and we are excited to see the continuation
of your JSA journey.
As the largest student-run organization in the country, the Junior State relies on
leaders like you to not only continue its success, but to also improve the
organization for future members. Serving on Cabinet is a unique experience that
cultivates competent leaders with reputable work ethic and communication
skills. Cabinet members have a keen sense of leadership both inside and outside
the organization. JSA’s continued success is dependent on students who are
willing to invest their time and energy to uphold the organization’s mission to
educate and prepare students for lifelong involvement with democracy. It is an
honor to serve on the Southern California Cabinet and members are expected to
carry out respectable personal conduct, impeccable work quality, and effective
communication.
We are excited to implement change next year and look forward to working
with enthusiastic members who bring innovative ideas. In your application, take
the time to express your thoughts on how to improve the JSA experience. Feel
free to share your personal story on what the organization has done for you. We
look forward to connecting with you via your application and cannot wait to
learn more about what you can do to contribute to the Southern California
Junior State’s continued success!
Warm regards,
Chris Alba
Governor
Nima Mozhgani
Lieutenant Governor
Corey Elder
Speaker of the Assembly
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DEADLINES
Applications for the Chief of Staff and all department head positions are
due on Tuesday, June 30th, 2015. All other applications will be due on
Wednesday, July 15th, 2015. There will be no exception for late
applications. Please complete the application using the Wufoo form found
here.
IMPORTANT DATES
There will be mandatory cabinet meetings on Friday, August 28thSaturday, August 29th ($50 fee for overnight stay) and Saturday,
December 19th. These meetings will be held in Irvine and Los Angeles,
respectively.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Governor:
Chris Alba
(310) 883-3734
calba@jsa.org
AR Mayor:
Henri Stern
(310) 869-3862
hstern@socal.jsa.org
Lieutenant Governor:
Nima Mozhgani
(949) 701-2753
nmozhgani@socal.jsa.org
SER Mayor:
Justin Wittekind
(949) 812-0099
jwittekind@socal.jsa.org
Speaker of the Assembly:
Corey Elder
(760) 221-2943
celder@socal.jsa.org
CIR Mayor:
Ian Baucke
(805) 698-5049
ibaucke@socal.jsa.org
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APPLICATION QUESTIONS
Please complete your cabinet application via the Wufoo form found here.
You may choose to apply to up to five cabinet positions. If Chief of Staff or any
department head position is within your top five choices, you must submit your
application by Tuesday, June 30th, 2015. All other applications will be due on
Wednesday, July 15th, 2015.
Note: You will submit a PDF version of your responses and supplemental
questions onto the Wufoo form when complete.
Below are the general application questions. You may choose to either answer
each question individually or answer them in an essay. The content of your
response is much more important than the length. Focus on best articulating the
person you are and the vision you have for the Junior State. This will be how we
get to know who you are and why you think you are the best person for the job.
1) When and why did you become involved with JSA?
2) Why are you applying for this position?
3) Why are you qualified for this position? If you have previously served on
Cabinet, what did you accomplish?
4) Did you attend (or will you be attending) a JSA Summer Program? If so,
which one?
5) What other extracurricular activities are you involved in?
6) How much time can you dedicate to JSA per week?
7) What lasting mark do you want to leave on SoCal JSA?
8) What makes you unique?
9) Respond to the “Supplemental Questions” for your first choice.
10) Anything else we should know about you.
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STATE CABINET POSITIONS
At a Glance
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
Chief of Staff
Convention Department
Convention Coordinator*
Assistant Convention Coordinator
Director of Operations
Director of Summer School
Director of Social Activities
Director of Convention Technology
Expansion Department
Director of Expansion (1 per region)
Debate Department
Director of Debate*
Director of Moderators
Deputy Director of Debate
Publicity & Technology Department
Director of Public Relations*
Director of Technology
Director of Social Media
Director of Videography & Livestream
Director of Photography
Editor-in-Chief of the Pro-Voice
Pro-Voice Staff Writer
Fundraising Department
Director of Development*
Deputy Director of Fundraising (1 per region)
Scholarship Supervisor
Chapter Affairs Department
Director of Chapter Affairs*
Assistant Director of Chapter Affairs
Director of Registration
Chapter Coordinator
*Denotes “Department Head”
OFFICE OF THE SPEAKER
Advocacy Department
Speaker Pro-Tempore
Director of Political Activism
Director of Youth Advisory Boards
Director of Assembly Outreach
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EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
CHIEF OF STAFF
The Chief of Staff must lead Cabinet alongside the Governor. He/she will be required to work
with all departments and facilitate inter-department communication. One of the main
responsibilities of the Chief of Staff is to communicate with all Cabinet members via mass
emails. He/she must take notes on weekly Executive Cabinet conference calls and read/respond
to each department head’s weekly update emails. He/she will be responsible for ensuring all
Cabinet members are performing up to standard and will issue out warnings to those who are
not fulfilling their responsibilities. At conventions, he/she will introduce the Executive Cabinet
and set the tone for the entire convention. The Chief of Staff must have an assertive,
professional attitude and must be respected by Cabinet. The Chief of Staff will work closely with
the Governor, often giving him advice, and must also respond to the Governor’s requests which
may include gathering information for State of the State addresses, writing pre-convention
emails, and contacting Chapter Presidents on his behalf.
Time Commitment: 15 hours per week (Must attend weekly Sunday evening conference calls)
Supplemental Questions: What specific plans do you have to ensure that all departments turn
in their work/complete their projects correctly and on time? If a cabinet member was not doing
his/her job properly, how would you motivate this individual to work harder? How have you
demonstrated a capacity for accomplishing tasks both within and outside of JSA? What new
ideas do you have to improve the Southern California Junior State? Draft a sample welcome
email and a sample warning email. Note: This position may require a phone interview with
members of the Application Review Committee.
CONVENTION DEPARTMENT
CONVENTION COORDINATOR
The Convention Coordinator must create the schedule and design the agenda for all state-level
JSA sponsored events. He/she will be the backbone of the Junior State during state conventions.
He/she must work closely with almost every major department in the Cabinet, the Program
Director for room orders and placements, the Governor to plan the conventions and create
supply lists, and the Director of Debate to place debates into blocks. The Convention
Coordinator must be incredibly hardworking, responsible, dedicated, and creative.
Time Commitment: 10-12 hours per week (Must attend weekly Sunday evening conference calls)
Supplemental Questions: Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of previous state conventions.
How would you work to change the way conventions are run to make them more efficient?
Describe your organization skills and any events you have planned in the past. Create the
agenda-at-a-glance and the agenda for a one-day conference (no need to include debate blurbs- 7
a simple [insert blurb] will suffice). Label the rooms with “large room” (given one) and “small
room” (given three). Note: This position may require a phone interview with members of the
Application Review Committee.
ASSISTANT CONVENTION COORDINATOR
The Assistant Convention Coordinator directly aids the Convention Coordinator in convention
planning and leading the Convention Department. Although the specific tasks assigned will be
under the Convention Coordinator’s discretion, the Assistant Convention Coordinator may be
responsible for editing agendas, creating restaurant maps, creating convention feedback surveys,
and responding to feedback requests.
Time Commitment: 5-7 hours per week (Peaking during conventions)
Supplemental Questions: How do you plan to assist the Convention Coordinator? What are
three jobs you’d like to take on to help the Convention Coordinator? Create a comprehensive
convention feedback survey.
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
The Director of Operations works directly with the Convention Coordinator to handle all
logistical aspects of the convention. The Director of Operations will coordinate with all of
cabinet to assign a variety of tasks to cabinet members during conventions to keep rooms under
control. Additionally, he/she will need to be able to think on his/her feet, as he/she will need to
make quick decisions during the convention to respond to emergencies such as room
overcrowding, missing moderators, and hotel logistical tasks. The Director of Operations should
be a sociable, hard-working and organized person who can assemble teams of JSA delegates to
do a wide variety of tasks during conventions. Note: Those who apply for Director of
Operations will be automatically considered to serve as Logistic Agents unless otherwise noted.
Time Commitment: 5-7 hours per week (Peaking during conventions)
Supplemental Questions: Are there any ways we can improve logistics from the past? How do
you plan to keep track of whether Cabinet members attend their logistics shifts?
DIRECTOR OF SUMMER SCHOOL
The Director of Summer School must promote summer school through Summer School
workshops, literature, and presentations at every JSA-sponsored activity. He/she must connect
with all Southern California Summer School graduates to direct those who do not have chapters
to the expansion department. The Director of Summer School must be a Summer School
graduate and have strong social and networking skills.
Time Commitment: 4-6 hours per week (Peaking during conventions)
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Supplemental Questions: Why do you love JSA Summer School? How do you intend to
promote JSA summer programs at JSA conventions during the year? Create a list of at least
three original fundraising tips.
DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL ACTIVITIES
The Director of Social Activities must design and oversee all overnight convention social
activities. You will decide upon the dance theme(s) well in advance and have them approved by
the Convention Coordinator and Program Director. He/she will be responsible for promoting the
Talent Show, getting sign-ups, and creating a schedule based upon responses. He/she will decide
upon the movie showing per convention and bring a DVD of said movie to conventions. He/she
will also work with the Director of Convention Technology to run the karaoke and movie
showing activities, and will also assign Cabinet members to lead said activities. The Director of
Social Activities will work with the Director of Chapter Affairs to publicize the dance themes,
Talent Show sign-ups, and movie showing. In addition to evening activities, the Director of
Social Activities will work with the Governor to organize Food Truck events at conventions and
organize social activities during the day for JSA delegates to network with one another.
Time Commitment: 4-6 hours per week (Peaking during conventions)
Supplemental Questions: What are two new evening activities you would like to implement into
conventions? What are two daytime activities you would like to organize at convention that
promote communication between chapters? How do you intend to publicize said activities?
DIRECTOR OF CONVENTION TECHNOLOGY
The Director of Convention Technology must ensure that all technological equipment works
effectively at conventions including, but not limited to, extension cords, projectors, and
microphones. He/she will also be responsible for making the Opening and Closing Session
PowerPoints. He/she will work with the hotel staff to make sure all technological equipment is
ready to be used during conventions and the Director of Videography/Livestream to help with
Livestream.
Time Commitment: 4-5 hours per week (peaking during conventions)
Supplemental Questions: What is your experience with technology? How do you intend to
make the technological aspect of conventions as smooth as possible? What type of
technological equipment do you have available to you that you would be willing to bring to
conventions?
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DEPATE DEPARTMENT
DIRECTOR OF DEBATE
The Director of Debate must lead the Deputy Directors of Debate in creating a variety
ofdebate/thought talk topics and writing briefs for said topics per convention. He/she will be
responsible for training all Deputy Directors of Debate and editing their work before it gets
inserted into the agenda. The Director of Debate must post said debate/thought talk resolutions
and briefs on the DebateWare website far in advance and fill each with main speakers. He/she
will write or assign a Deputy to write a weekly debate resolution and brief to be distributed to
Chapter Presidents. He/she must also lead Debate Workshops at JSA events. This year, he/she
will oversee the production of Debate Training Videos to help new JSAers learn how JSA
debates work and how to formulate a strong argument. He/she will also be responsible for
managing a Debate Suggestions Google Form to gather input from delegates on what topics
they would like to see at conventions. The Director of Debate will spearhead an initiative to
train new JSAers in debate aside from the “Debate Workshops” currently offered.
Time Commitment: 10-12 hours per week (Must attend weekly Sunday evening conference calls)
Supplemental Questions: Write a list of fifteen potential debate resolutions each with a single
pro and con argument. How will you ensure all main speakers and moderators are prepared
before a convention? How will you fairly select main speakers that will give every delegate from
all chapters an equal opportunity to main speak? What are three debate styles that you would
like to implement in Southern California that were not used last year? How will you provide
resources to all delegates to improve their public speaking and debating skills? Note: This
position may require a phone interview with members of the Application Review Committee.
DIRECTOR OF MODERATORS
The Director of Moderators must create and maintain an organized group of certified
moderators. He/she will be granted access to DebateWare and will select the moderators for
each convention. He/she will also host Moderator Training Workshops at each JSA event and
design the Moderator Certification process. This year, he/she will be in charge of overseeing the
production of Moderator Training Videos to provide as a resource to all delegates. He/she will
also be responsible for leading at least two Moderating Webinars before each convention to
ensure all moderators are prepared.
Time Commitment: 4-5 hours per week
Supplemental Questions: How do you plan to create and maintain a certified moderator
database? How do you plan to train new moderators for both debates and thought talks?
Create a schedule for a Moderator Training workshop. Create a Moderator Certification test. Do
you have any ideas on how to revise the certification process to make sure moderators are
actually qualified?
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DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF DEBATE
The Deputy Directors of Debate must propose a variety of debate and thought talk topics to the
Director of Debate, and write well-researched briefs about said topics. Said briefs include pro
and con arguments and helpful links for further research. He/she will also be periodically asked
to write debate resolutions and briefs for weekly use at the chapter level.
Time Commitment: 5-6 hours per week
Supplemental Questions: Write a list of five potential debate resolutions each with single a pro
and con argument. Also, write two sample debate briefs–one on a social topic and one on a
political/economic topic. Provide four bulleted pro and con arguments per topic. Link one pro
and one con credible source that could be used for further research. What special debate styles
would you like to bring back or newly develop for JSAers to enjoy?
CHAPTER AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT
DIRECTOR OF CHAPTER AFFAIRS
The Director of Chapter Affairs must ensure that chapters receive pertinent information as well
as motivation. He/she must keep an up-to-date record of contact information from every
Chapter President. The Director of Chapter Affairs will communicate with all department heads
to gather information that needs to be forwarded to Chapter Presidents, whether via the
Chapter Coordinators or via emails sent by him/herself. He/she will be expected to identify and
assist “dying” chapters by restrengthening its base. The Director of Chapter Affairs must serve as
the most accessible person on Cabinet to assist with chapter initiatives such as publicity and
planning One Days. The Director of Chapter Affairs will lead Chapter Presidents meetings at
conventions and help the Governor coordinate a one day Leadership Summit during the Spring.
Time Commitment: 10-12 hours per week (Must attend weekly Sunday evening conference calls)
Supplemental Questions: What new ideas do you bring to the Chapter Affairs? How do you
suggest we enforce chapter improvement in chapters across Southern California? How will you
make new chapters that the Expansion Department directs to you feel welcome in the JSA
community? Under which circumstances will you contact Chapter Presidents yourself, and under
which circumstances will you encourage the Chapter Coordinators to take leadership? How do
you plan to work with the Chapter Coordinators to produce high convention attendance? How
do you plan on ensuring all Chapter Coordinators are fulfilling their responsibilities? Note: This
position may require a phone interview with members of the Application Review Committee.
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF CHAPTER AFFAIRS
The Assistant Director of Chapter Affairs will serve as the state Comptroller while helping the
Director of Chapter Affairs lead the department. He/she must ensure that every chapter in the 11
state is tax paid and must keep an accurate record of said chapters. The Assistant Director of
Chapter Affairs will help oversee all Chapter Coordinators and hold them accountable. The
Assistant Director of Chapter Affairs will also spearhead the Chapter Mixers initiative and help
Chapter Coordinators encourage their respective chapters to interact with one another. In the
case of the Director of Chapter Affairs’ absence, he/she must lead the Chapter Presidents
meeting. He/she must also be a resource for chapter level fundraising. This does not entail
actual fundraising for chapters. Other specific tasks will be under the discretion of next year’s
Director of Chapter Affairs.
Time Commitment: 7-10 hours per week
Supplemental Questions: How do you plan on ensuring all chapters are tax paid? How do you
plan to keep records of all of the chapters and their taxes? Aside from the responsibilities
outlined above, how else would you be willing to help the Director of Chapter affairs?
DIRECTOR OF REGISTRATION
The Director of Registration must report directly to the Program Director to ensure that every
chapter is registered and paid on time. The Director of Registration will also work with the
Chapter Affairs Department to contact Chapter Presidents to promote registration and send out
reminders. If deemed necessary, he/she will lead Registration Webinars during convention
registration season to guide new Chapter Presidents through the registration process. It is
essential that the Director of Registration has incredible organizational and communication skills.
Time Commitment: 4-5 hours per week (Peaking before conventions)
Supplemental Questions: How do you intend to regularly communicate with the Program
Director? How do you plan to organize registration records?
CHAPTER COORDINATOR
The Chapter Coordinator must keep in constant contact with assigned chapters. Said contact
includes frequent phone calls and emails to dissipate information from the Director of Chapter
Affairs, Mayors, or Governor to Chapter Presidents. He/she must help their respective chapters
plan One Days and mixers with one another. The Chapter Coordinator should form strong
bonds and friendships with their respective Chapter Presidents and serve as their main resource.
Time Commitment: 6-8 hours per week
Supplemental Questions: Why do you want to be a Chapter Coordinator? How do you plan to
build strong relationships with your Chapter Presidents? How do you plan to encourage Chapter
Presidents to complete tasks such as sending in taxes or registering for conventions? How will
you deal with Chapter Presidents who are unresponsive to your attempts at communication?
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EXPANSION DEPARTMENT
DIRECTOR OF EXPANSION (one per region)
The Directors of Expansion must coordinate the Cabinet Expansion Program in which each
Cabinet member is responsible for starting one new tax paid chapter or reviving a dead chapter
by the end of 2015. The Directors of Expansion must oversee this effort in organizing
spreadsheets of contacts and schools and holding each Cabinet member accountable to his or
her responsibilities. The Directors of Expansion must design resources to assist Cabinet members
in the expansion process. Working with the Governor, the Directors of Expansion must identify
schools without chapters and reach out to their respective administration and/or teachers in
search of a student contact. During the second semester, the Directors of Expansion must focus
on retention in creating a stable foundation for the 2016-2017 year.
Time Commitment: 8-12 hours per week (Must attend weekly Sunday evening conference calls)
Supplemental Questions: How will you organize the Cabinet Expansion program? How will you
enforce it? What resources will you provide? Make an expansion department timeline that starts
in mid-August and goes to November 31, 2015. Would you like to be considered to be
appointed as the Lead Director of Expansion? Note: This position may require a phone interview
with members of the Application Review Committee.
FUNDRAISING DEPARTMENT
DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT
The Director of Development must raise money for the SoCal JSA scholarship fund. He/she
must not only integrate fundraising into state conventions, but also raise funds outside of
conventions. The Director of Development must remain in close contact with the National
Director of Development and the Chief Development Officer in order to secure large donations
from other organizations and launch online crowdsourcing campaigns. He/she must identify and
contact possible donors including local organizations and alumni. He/she must delegate work to
a number of fundraising deputies throughout the year. The Director of Development must also
assist the Governor and Scholarship Supervisor in allocating scholarships for state conventions.
Time Commitment: 10-12 hours per week (Must attend weekly Sunday evening conference calls)
Supplemental Questions: How will you ensure the success of online crowdsourcing campaigns?
Draft a letter to a possible donor requesting a donation. Describe three innovative fundraising
ideas during conventions and two innovative fundraising ideas outside of conventions. Note:
This position may require a phone interview with members of the Application Review
Committee.
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DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF FUNDRAISING (one per region)
The Deputy Directors of Fundraising must work directly with the Director of Development to
receive assigned tasks for activities within conventions and outside of conventions. These
include: working with chapters to increase fundraising within, planning interesting and
interactive fundraisers during conventions, and executing successful fundraising endeavors
outside of conventions. The Deputy Directors of Fundraising must also take leadership in
fundraising for their respective regions at regional events.
Time Commitment: 5-7 hours per week
Supplemental Questions: How do you plan to assist the Director of Development? How do you
plan to take leadership in fundraising for your own region? Give two innovative fundraising
ideas for use at the regional or state level.
SCHOLARSHIP SUPERVISOR
The Scholarship Supervisor must create the scholarship application, manage the scholarship
funds, and determine the most deserving students for convention scholarships. The Scholarship
Supervisor must also assist the Director of Development and Deputy Directors of Fundraising in
fundraising efforts.
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per week (Peaking during conventions)
Supplemental Questions: Do you have any financial experience? Create a sample financial aid
application. How to do plan to identify deserving scholarship applicants?
PUBLIC RELATIONS & TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS
The Director of Public Relations must lead the Public Relations & Technology Department in
representing the Southern California Junior State on social media and in the community. He/she
must contact the press about JSA events and must publicize JSA in Southern California. The
Director of Public Relations must create a network of press contacts to periodically publish
articles pertaining to statewide events.
Time Commitment: 8-10 hours per week (Must attend weekly Sunday evening conference calls)
Supplemental Questions: Describe five innovative ideas that you think will help in marketing
and in the publicity of Southern California JSA. How do you plan to reach out to the press to
cover JSA’s events and accomplishments? How do you plan on using cabinet members to
publicize events on social media? Note: This position may require a phone interview with
members of the Application Review Committee.
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DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY
The Director of Technology must redesign the Southern California JSA website and develop new
features including an interactive calendar. He/she must also be in constant communication with
the Governor, department heads, and other elected officials to maintain the website with up-todate information. The Director of Technology will also be involved in the development of a
smart phone application and will maintain the application once it has been released.
Time Commitment: 7-9 hours per week
Supplemental Questions: How do you intend to improve the website? What experience do you
have in web design? Link and/or describe any of your previously made websites. What sort of
content do you plan to add in order to make the website a better, more accessible tool for SoCal
JSA? What other technology projects would you like to undertake?
DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA
The Director of Social Media must represent Southern California JSA on all facets of social
media. He/she must manage the Twitter and Instagram accounts and constantly update each
with highlights from events or of various chapters. He/she must work closely with the Director
of Photography and the Director of Videography to publicize their work. He/she must capture
SoCal JSA as a whole, not just the cabinet or the large events.
Time Commitment: 3-4 hours per week
Supplemental Questions: What is your experience with social media? How do you intend to
update the various avenues of social media? How do you plan to expand JSA’s presence through
social media? Write five sample captions to photos you describe (example: [insert photo of JSA
chapter doing community service] caption: __). Write five Tweets about upcoming events or as
if you are tweeting live from a JSA event.
DIRECTOR OF VIDEOGRAPHY & LIVESTREAM
The Director of Videography & Livestream must set up the necessary technological equipment at
every JSA-sponsored event to livestream debates and other activities. He/she must also record
JSA through videos at every convention, cabinet meeting, etc. to be posted on social media. He/
she will also be responsible for providing footage to create national promotional videos. He/she
will also be responsible for shooting and editing training videos (i.e. Debate Training Videos and
Moderating Training Videos) from various departments. In order to fully complete the
responsibilities, he/she will be required to have outstanding attendance at all types of JSA
events.
Time Commitment: 5-7 hours a week (peaking at conventions)
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Supplemental Questions: How adept are you with technology and/or Livestream specifically?
How will you publicize Livestream to the community? What experience do you have in film and
editing? Please submit a sample video if you have made one.
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
The Director of Photography must capture moments during the SoCal JSA year. He/she will be
responsible for taking Cabinet headshots, capturing various moments during convention of all
delegates, and capturing the election season. He/she will also work with the Convention
Coordinator to design the cover art for all statewide JSA-sponsored events. Photographers will
be responsible for manning the JSA Photo Booth during Evening Activities. The Director of
Photography must upload and organize pictures onto an online photo album after all JSA events.
He/she will also work closely with the Publicity Department, especially the Director of Social
Media, to distribute photographs into the community. Note: Those who apply for Director of
Photography will be automatically considered to serve as Photographers unless otherwise noted.
Time Commitment: 3-4 hours per week
Supplemental Questions: Include a photography portfolio that showcases your skill. How do
you plan on distributing photographs to all attendees at JSA sponsored events?
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OF THE PRO-VOICE
The Editor-in-Chief of the Pro-Voice must edit, update, and maintain the official Southern
California JSA newspaper, the Pro-Voice. The Pro-Voice will feature student written articles on
Southern California JSA news and on current events that affect youth. He/she must have stellar
writing, communication skills, and technological proficiency. He/she must advertise the
newspaper on social media and find writers to write for the Pro-Voice. The Editor-in-Chief will
often work with the Director of Publicity to publish articles in local news sources.
Time Commitment: 6-8 hours per week
Supplemental Questions: Describe how you would increase interest in writing for/reading the
Pro-Voice. How will you find writers? How do you plan to designate writers to cover specific
topics or events? How do you plan to publicize the newspaper and increase readership? Propose
two new names for the “Pro-Voice” that reflect its new change in purpose.
PRO-VOICE STAFF WRITERS
Pro-Voice Staff Writers will be the official journalists of the Southern California Junior State. ProVoice Staff Writers will write articles that report on chapter, regional, and state news. Pro-Voice
Staff Writers must also write articles covering current events, such as legislation, that affect
youth in our community. Pro-Voice Staff Writers will gain exposure to all fields of our state and
be in constant communication with both Cabinet and Chapter Presidents.
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Time Commitment: 3-5 hours per week
Supplemental Questions: What are three examples of article topics that you would write
throughout the year? Write an article of up to 300 words that covers a current event relevant to
Southern California youth that could be featured in the Pro-Voice.
ADVOCACY DEPARTMENT
SPEAKER PRO-TEMPORE
The Speaker Pro-Tempore will assist the Speaker of the Assembly in leading the Advocacy
Department and organizing Assembly Meetings. He/she will communicate between the
members of the Advocacy Department in implementing Assembly planks in a variety of Activism
contexts. The Speaker Pro-Tempore will assist the Speaker wherever else deemed necessary and
will also ensure that the Advocacy Department runs as smoothly as possible.
Time Commitment: 7-9 hours per week
Supplemental Questions: What are 3 ideas that you would like to see implemented in either the
Advocacy Department or the Assembly?
DIRECTOR OF POLITICAL ACTIVISM
The Director of Political Activism are in charge of coordinating chapter, regional, and statewide
activism projects for the Southern California Junior State. He/she will work on the Fight Apathy
Campaign to ensure that students in JSA are getting involved in their political communities. He/
she will also work to create activism projects specifically based off of the planks passed by the
Assembly.
Time Commitment: 4-5 hours per week
Supplemental Questions: The Assembly just past a plank that endorses Federal Recognition of
Gay Marriage. Briefly describe two innovating activism projects that would support this
initiative. The projects may be based off of a chapter, regional or statewide scale.
DIRECTOR OF YOUTH ADVISORY BOARDS
The Director of Youth Advisory Boards will work to establish Youth Advisory Boards throughout
the Southern California Junior State. He/she will also communicate directly with Congressional
members’ office to ensure that meetings are being set up between the Board and the
Congressmen/Congresswomen.
Time Commitment: 4-5 hours per week
Supplemental Questions: Do you have any experience within a Youth Advisory Board or at an
elected official’s office? Write a sample letter to a Congressional office about establishing a 17
Youth Advisory Board. Include a brief description of JSA and the purpose of Youth Advisory
Boards. It is imperative that the letter is not too lengthy.
DIRECTOR OF ASSEMBLY OUTREACH
The Director of Assembly Outreach will be in charge of coordinating Assembly meetings and
ensuring constant communication between the Advocacy Department and Assembly members.
He/she will also work with the other Advocacy Department members to utilize planks to create
a more active and influential Junior State.
Time Commitment: 4-5 hours per week
Supplemental Questions: Do you personally have any experience in the Assembly? What are
some ways that we can improve communication and improve the quality of planks we receive?
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ANGELES REGION
CABINET APPLICATION
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Dear Angeles Region Statesmen and Stateswomen,
Thank you so much for showing interest in the Angeles Region Cabinet. Next
year is going to be a big year for the Angeles Region and we are so glad you
want to be a part of it. As an Angeles Region Cabinet member, you will have
the privilege of being a part of the team that runs this great region. By applying
for cabinet you are applying for what we believe is the best part of JSA, the
student leadership; JSA is among a select group of high school organization that
are run by the students. We are glad that you are showing interest in being a
part of what makes JSA special.
We hope that next year we see new heights for the Angeles Region, so you will
have to be willing to put in effort to make our region the best it can be. You will
also have to be willing to take a visible leadership role; non-cabinet members
will seek you for guidance and help. It is our hope that through this next year’s
experiences, both you and our region will grow and mature.
The Angeles Region cabinet has many different positions, from Director of
Debate to Director of the Chapter Alliance Program, so please consider which
position best fits your skill set and apply for that one. We want to make sure
that the Angeles Region has the right people in the right places, so please think
carefully about your choice.
Finally, please take the time to fill out the application to the best of your ability,
and if you have any problems please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Sincerely,
Henri Stern
Angeles Region Mayor
Noor Mumtaz
Angeles Region Vice-Mayor
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CONFERENCE COORDINATOR
The Convention Coordinator is responsible for planning and organizing the two regional OneDays each year, as well as assisting the Events Coordinator in planning any additional AR Events
throughout the year. This job includes designing an agenda for each convention, aiding the
Mayor in booking event venues, organizing all convention materials, and ensuring smooth and
efficient events.
Time Commitment: 6-7 hours/week (peaking before events)
Supplemental Questions:: Do you have any experience planning events? Please explain your
organizational skills and list any ideas you have for improving and enhancing Angeles Region
events.
EVENTS COORDINATOR
The Events Coordinator will work closely with the Convention Coordinator to help book
speakers, plan events, and incorporate unique activities into Angeles Region events. This person
will also help to create monthly social events such as bonfires, movie screenings, and ice skating
socials.
Time Commitment: 4-5 hours/week (peaking before events)
Supplemental Questions:: Have you ever booked a speaker? Do you have any ideas for special
activities at AR events? Do you have any creative ideas for social events?
DIRECTOR OF DEBATE
The Director of Debate will work to create innovative debate and thought talk topics for all AR
events. The Director of Debate is responsible for creating new and controversial topics to
promote dynamic debate at all regional events, writing briefs for all the debates and thought
talks, signing up speakers and moderators, and leading workshops for speaker training. This job
requires eloquent writing skill, knowledge of current events and issues, and previous experience
both debating and moderating.
Time Commitment: 5-6 hours/week (peaking before events)
Supplemental Questions:: Discuss your debate experience. Please list 3 unique debate topics
and 2 potential thought talk topics. Include briefs for any 2 of the 5.
DIRECTOR OF CHAPTER ALLIANCE
The Director of Chapter Alliance will be responsible for matching older, more established
chapters with newer, less experienced chapters based on proximity to create a mentoring
program. The Director will also create monthly assignments such as sit in on your allied 21
chapter's meeting or host a joint pizza party to promote intraregional chapter connections. The
Director of Chapter Alliance will be in constant contact with all of the AR chapters to ensure the
success of the program.
Time Commitment: 4-5 hours/week
Supplemental Questions: After last year’s integration of the CAP, what can we do to continue
the growth of the program? Do you have any previous experience with Chapter Affairs? Are you
heavily involved on a chapter level? Please explain any and all chapter experience you may have.
Please list 2 creative monthly tasks that the allied chapters can easily complete.
DIRECTOR OF MEDIA & PUBLICITY
The Director of Media & Publicity will work to promote AR events and utilize media. The duties
of this role include but are not limited to: contacting speakers, writing articles about out
regional events, and acting as a liaison between JSA and the local community. This person must
be competent with social media, write and speak professionally, and appropriately represent the
Angeles Region. The position will also be responsible for documenting events through
photography and video.
Time Commitment: 4-5 hours/week
Supplemental Questions:: How do you plan to publicize AR events? What mediums of
communication do you intend to use to broaden the scope of our publicity? Please draft a short
newspaper article about a previous JSA event you attended, including a brief description of the
organization. Please describe your experience and proficiency with either photography or
videography.
22
SOUTHERN EMPIRE REGION
CABINET APPLICATION
23
Dearest SER Statesmen and Stateswomen,
I am very, very excited that you have shown interest in taking a more active role
in this amazing organization. It is your energy that fuels JSA’s continued
prosperity; you, individually, make-up our collective success. Now it is your turn
to take a more active role and this application is a real opportunity for you to
make a difference.
We are looking for driven talent this year; this region seriously needs leaders in
order to institute the change we all desire. From changing Chapter Alliance to
organizing the SER One Day, there is a lot of work to be done. And I know that
this region, with its plethora of great minds, has the potential to change things
in our region, SoCal, and the whole Junior State.
This cabinet is not exclusively for freshmen, nor is it exclusively for seniors. It
should be made up exclusively of passionate individuals with a desire to make
our region better. I encourage you to apply for regional cabinet if you have this
passion. JSA needs people like you, and the Southern Empire Region in
particular desires your assistance.
Although regional cabinet may be smaller than state cabinet, we are not lesser
in importance. We are not lesser in enthusiasm. And we are not lesser in ability.
If you share my fervor for this organization, if you are ready to do big things,
and if you are a member of the SER, I urge you to join me in making this
upcoming 2015-2016 JSA year the best year to be a part of this great region.
Sincerely,
Justin Wittekind
Southern Empire Region Mayor
Henry Huang
Southern Empire Region Vice-Mayor
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CHIEF OF STAFF
The Chief of Staff is integral to the function of the entire regional cabinet. A candidate for this
position must have intense work ethic as well as unfaltering dedication to this region and to the
organization as a whole. The Chief of Staff is primarily an organizer, and also takes on the role
of the foremost assistant to the Mayor and Vice Mayor. One additional duty of the Chief of
Staff will be to help publicize events, which was a duty that formerly belonged to the Director of
Publicity. This includes finding ways to publicize One Days and regional events both inside and
outside of JSA. The Chief of Staff will be accountable at all times for the orchestration of
regional success, and will serve as the highest appointed regional official with the utmost dignity
and enthusiasm. This position is one for a leader, who has evidently served and will continue to
serve the Junior State. Attendance is required at all meetings, regional events, and state
conventions.
Time Commitment: 4-5 hours a week (will peak before regional events)
Supplemental Questions: What is a specific example of your leadership abilities in action? What
would you do to promote regional unity as Chief of Staff? How do you plan to organize all
regional business?
CONFERENCE COORDINATOR
The Convention Coordinator is responsible for planning regional One Days, in both the fall and
the spring. This includes creating an agenda, helping secure a venue, ensuring proper
maintenance of the registration desk, and acting as the primary organizer of both one days. The
Convention Coordinator must be focused, driven, organized, and responsive. Above all, the
Convention Coordinator must be responsible. As Convention Coordinator, you will be expected
to attend all regional events (meetings, One Days, etc.), as well as to attend all state
conventions
Time Commitment: 3-4 hours a week (will peak before One Days)
Supplemental Questions: Give an example of an event you have successfully planned. Why do
you feel that you are qualified to hold this position? What specific ideas do you have regarding
the convention themes, fundraisers, and organization?
EVENTS COORDINATOR
The Events Coordinator is responsible for the planning of the social events coordinated by the
region. This year, I am expecting at least two regional events, and if you are selected as Events
Coordinator, the burden will largely fall on you to plan these events. Bonfires, baseball games,
movies, karaoke, and banquets are just some ideas for possible regional events. The possibilities
are endless. I expect the Events Coordinator to be creative, social, and energetic. You have to be
responsible, but no one will judge you for having a little bit of fun. After all, fun is your thing. If 25
chosen as Events Coordinator, your presence will be expected at all regional events (meetings,
One Days, and regional activities), and at most state conventions.
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours a week (peaks before regional events)
Supplemental Questions: Come up with an activity that the region could possibly host. Include
venue, time, theme, and other specifics. Presentation is everything.
DIRECTOR OF DEBATE
The Director of Debate will organize the debates for the One Days and will facilitate meaningful
political conversation within the region. Your first duty as Director of Debate will be to come up
with debate topics and briefs for the Fall One Day, and the rest of the year you will spend
working on increasing political conversation within the region and repeating your duties during
the prospective Spring One Day. You may make a Regional Debate Twitter, you may assist the
State Debate Department before conventions, and you may even make a debate rap video
encouraging your peers to talk about the hot-button issues. Most importantly, this position is
what you make it. If you wish to increase conversation and decrease the existing stigma
surrounding politics, then this is the position for you. The Director of Debate will be expected at
all regional events and at all state conventions.
Time Commitment: 1-2 hours a week (5-6 around the time of One Days)
Supplemental Questions:: Create 3 Debate Topics that could be used at the SER Fall One Day,
and write briefs for two of them (email me at justinwittekind@gmail.com if you have formatting
questions). Be creative, and try to make your topics engaging and provocative.
DIRECTOR OF CHAPTER ALLIANCE
The Chapter Alliance system is going to be crucial to the function of the region this year. The
role of the Director of Chapter Alliance will be to coordinate and facilitate the actions of the
Chapter Alliance system, which brings together established and fledgling chapters in our region
in an effort to grow the region. The Director of Chapter Alliance is expected to have experience
in either Chapter Affairs or Chapter Alliance, and is expected to be incredibly accountable. The
Director of Chapter Alliance is required to attend all regional events as well as most, if not all,
state conventions. You may also be expected to attend the events you coordinate.
Time Commitment: 4-5 hours a week
Supplemental Questions: Pair together 10 chapters in the region and explain your reasoning.
Email me at justinwittekind@gmail.com for a list of chapters within our region.
DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY
The Director of Technology will serve to focus on the technological needs of the regional
26
cabinet and region as a whole. This may include making social media accounts and websites.
There will be a high level of accountability attached to this position, as well as an expectation of
technological expertise. You will be expected to be in attendance at all regional events and most
state conventions.
Time Commitment: 3-4 hours a week (may be less depending on productivity)
Supplemental Questions: Come up with a design for an SER Webpage or a regional logo to be
used for social media. Attach to application.
27
CHANNEL ISLANDS REGION
CABINET APPLICATION
28
Dear Fellow Statesmen and Stateswomen,
It is with my sincerest gratitude that I thank you for considering applying for a
position on the regional cabinet of the Channel Islands Region. I am certain that
if your application is honest and you show your passion for the Junior State that
there will be a spot for you on our leadership team come this fall.
As you probably know the Channel Islands Region has been faced with many
challenges in the past several years, and despite many motivated individuals’
best efforts, few have been overcome. While I can ensure you that your
experience on cabinet will be not only fun and fulfilling but also life changing, I
must also say that it will be challenging and at some times difficult. If we are to
make strides in improving this region then we must all contribute our very best,
both as a team and as individuals.
As mayor it isn't my job to bark orders or to boss you around. It’s my job to help
guide you to success in your position and to organize a team of dedicated and
impassioned young statesmen and women to lead this region to new heights. I
hope that with your help I can live up to that privilege of responsibility.
I'm excited for this next year in the CIR, and I'm confident that together we as a
team can really make the positive change we want to see in our region. But it’s
going to require us to make some bold decisions and to work hard towards our
goals. It’s going to be a tough but worthwhile journey on the road ahead, and I
hope that you'll be ready to join me.
I look forward to reading your application.
Sincerely,
Ian Baucke
Channel Islands Region Mayor
Samantha Paul
Channel Islands Region Vice-Mayor
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EVENTS COORDINATOR
The Events Coordinator will plan and organize regional events. This officer sets the schedule for
events, writes agendas, books guest speakers, finds locations, etc. The Events Coordinator also
manages logistics at events making sure everything runs smoothly, and helps set up before hand,
as well as collecting feedback from JSA members on their opinions on CIR events. He/she
should have good writing, speaking, and organizational skills in order to communicate with
guest speakers and venue administrators. The Events Coordinator will work closely with the
Director of Debate and the Director of Publicity & Technology to ensure events are well planned
and well publicized.
Time Commitment: 1-4 hours per week (peaking around regional events)
Supplemental Questions: What is your experience in planning and organizing events.
fundraisers, parties, rallies, guest speakers, etc? What is your biggest weakness?
DIRECTOR OF DEBATE
The Director of Debate will create themes for regional events, write debate and thought-talk
topics, research said topics, and write corresponding debate briefs. The Director of Debate
collaborates with the Events Coordinator to create the agenda for events and with the Director
of Publicity & Technology to find debate participants for Debateware when necessary. The
Director of Debate should possess eloquent writing skills and an interest in history, global and
national politics, and current events.
Time Commitment: 1-4 hours per week (peaking around regional events)
Supplemental Questions: How are you able to understand multiple points of view objectively?
How would you describe your writing skills? What is your biggest weakness? Write 8 sample
debate resolutions on a variety of topics with at least one major point of argument for both Pro
and Con.
DIRECTOR OF GROWTH AND REVIVAL
Holding arguably the most important position on regional cabinet, the Director of Growth and
Revival is responsible for growing the Channel Islands Region by increasing the number of
chapters, restoring chapters that have died out in the past, and working with the Director of
Chapter Alliance and Chapter Presidents to make sure CIR chapters are active and have strong
membership. It is expected that this officer will be coordinating with the state Expansion
Department to find and pursue contacts to start new JSA chapters in the CIR. This officer should
have excellent communication skills and be able to work with strangers, including students,
teachers, and school administrations, in order to build up and grow CIR chapters.
Time Commitment: 2-6 hours per week 30
Supplemental Questions: What is your experience working with teachers, students, and school
administration you did not know? Do you know any students or teachers that could be potential
contacts in creating a new JSA chapter in a regional school that does not have one yet? What is
your biggest weakness?
DIRECTOR OF CHAPTER ALLIANCE
The Director of Chapter Alliance serves as a liaison between the regional Cabinet and the
chapters in the CIR. Key responsibilities will include keeping in frequent contact with Chapter
Presidents, informing CP’s of regional events and initiatives, and addressing any problems or
questions chapters may have. Like the state director of chapter affairs the director is expected to
keep tabs on all of the chapters and to gather information to assist the Mayor. The Director of
Chapter Alliance will also work closely with the other members of regional cabinet, making sure
their work is known and understood by the Chapter Presidents. The Director will also assist in
regional development by working with the Director of Growth and Revival in helping newer and
struggling chapters find their way to success.
Time Commitment: 2-5 hours per week
Supplemental Questions: What is your experience in chapter leadership or in other chapter
affairs related positions? What is your biggest weakness?
DIRECTOR OF PUBLICITY & TECHNOLOGY
The Director of Publicity & Technology is responsible for advertising and publicizing regional
events, activities, and programs, and managing the region’s social media and web presence. This
director is also responsible for photography and videography at regional events which will
subsequently be edited and used for promotional purposes. The Director’s chief responsibility is
to boost attendance at regional events by making the public aware of them via social media
aided. This officer should possess knowledge and experience with social media, the internet,
web design, and photo/video production.
Time Commitment: 1-5 hours per week (peaking around regional events)
Supplemental Questions: What is your experience in areas such as marketing/advertising,
technology, social media, and photography/videography? How would you convince people to
go to JSA events? What is your biggest weakness?
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