Office of External Affairs
Federal Governmental Affairs Division
The Division of Governmental Affairs is the College’s liaison with the Congress and Federal government departments and agencies. It is responsible for developing and maintaining an effective working relationship with the Senate, the House of Representatives, Congressional committees and Committee staff, and Federal government departments and agencies.
Major areas of responsibilities are:
- Manages the presentation of the College’s legislative and budgetary programs before congressional appropriations and authorizing committees.
- Advises and assists College members and staff in preparing for appearances before congressional committees. Coordinates and reviews the preparation of College testimony submitted to Congress, prepares briefing materials for College witnesses, coordinates the preparation of responses to pre- and post-hearing questions for the record and reviews transcripts of Meharry-related congressional hearings.
- Provides information on College programs and activities to members of Congress and staff and arranges for formal and informal briefings in response to congressional requests.
- Advises the President, Faculty and staff on congressional actions affecting the College and provides guidance on the most effective responses.
- Compiles legislative history materials for congressionally enacted legislation that affects College programs and activities.
- Reviews and maintains files on congressional correspondence.
- Builds communication and promotes cooperation with each Federal agency that interacts with the College.
- Serves as an information resource for the College on relevant decisions, issues and activities of other government agencies.
- Coordinates College participation in activities, seminars, hearings, conferences and workshops sponsored by other Federal agencies, Colleges and departments.
