Michigan Political
Leadership Program

The Michigan Political Leadership Program (MPLP) at Michigan State University (MSU) recruits, trains, and inspires tomorrow’s public policy leaders, preparing them with vision, commitment, and the skills for effective governance.

In a multi-partisan learning environment, a diverse group of 24 individuals from across the state engage in a public policy and leadership curriculum. A unique concept not only in Michigan but also nationally, this ten-month weekend program incorporates practical politics, public policy analysis and process, personal leadership development, and effective governance. Since its 1992 inception, some 500 MPLP graduates have put the skills and relationships acquired through the program to work in their communities as candidates for office, as government officials or as citizen activists.

The first class of Fellows graduated in 1992. Since that time, alumni reports indicate that 45 percent of MPLP alumni are serving or have served in an appointed or elected capacity. By this accounting, 92 individuals have been elected to city, village and township offices; 52 elected to county office; five who have served on a college or university board; 39 who have served on local school boards; 28 elected or appointed to offices in state government (27 total state representatives and one state senator); 31 who have served their local political party in leadership positions, and two who were elected chair of a Michigan Tribal Government.

MPLP is administered by the Institute for Public Policy and Social Research (IPPSR), guided by an Advisory Board and directed by Anne M. Mervenne and Steve Tobocman. MPLP is a non-profit entity, supported by the MSU Office of the Provost, College of Social Science and IPPSR. Significant grant funding has come from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation of Battle Creek, Michigan and the Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation of Midland, Michigan. Generous contributions from Michigan associations, corporations, labor organizations, MPLP alumni, and individuals are also instrumental in supporting this program which is aimed at improving political, governmental and volunteer leadership in Michigan.

Each year, MPLP names 12 men and 12 women as MPLP Fellows. Applications are available now for those who have a compelling interest in public service. Click here for more information about applying for an MPLP fellowship.

Your help is critical to sustaining and growing MPLP in strength and in value. You may make a one-time or reoccurring donation to MPLP online. To do so, please click here.