Virginia Peninsula Community College student Jess Montgomery received an Impact Award for significant contributions to the 2024 Virginia Government Simulation.
Organized by Virginia Commonwealth University’s Institute for Democracy, Pluralism, & Community Empowerment (IDPCE), the Virginia Government Simulation took place Oct. 3-5 in Richmond, offering students hands-on experience role-playing as sitting state lawmakers.
The Impact Award acknowledges the individual selected by the IDPCE executive board whose exceptional actions and commitment had the greatest positive influence on the experience. Holding the prestigious award, Montgomery is pictured with (l-r) Dr. Chapman Rackaway of Radford University, Dr. Amanda Wintersieck, VCU's IDPCE director, and Dr. Bobbi Gentry of Bridgewater College.
Pursuing an Associate of Applied Science degree in Paralegal Studies at VPCC, Montgomery was among more than 50 participants tasked to research their party affiliations, elect party leadership, propose laws, review and amend bills, engage in debates and floor actions, and send passed legislation to an internally elected governor. The simulation fosters communication, negotiation, and critical thinking—all essential to civic engagement.
Montgomery relished the opportunity and eagerly embraced her role.
“I debated the Democratic Party's minimum wage bill,” said Montgomery. “I debated other bills, too, but was the main force pushing for minimum wage. We argued and passed 18 bills! I did my best to represent VPCC.”
Amy Anderson, VPCC Legal Studies department head, was extremely pleased with Montgomery’s performance and how well she represented the College.
“I'm very proud that Jess was recognized as setting the bar for future VGS participants, and that she made such an impression on faculty, particularly as this was the program’s inaugural year,” said Anderson.
“Jess is a fantastic legal researcher whose passion and curiosity have stood out in classroom discussions,” she added. “Civic engagement is an important aspect of legal education; I was pleased that one of our own excelled and made an impact on so many; Jess is a fine example of VPCC's mission!”
Anderson said of all Virginia Government Simulation participants, only four were from community colleges. She cited VPCC alumna Ajane’e Ransom, who was in the Paralegal Studies program, as another standout. A transfer student attending VCU, Ransom was selected as the Republican majority whip.