The Citizen Service featured the "America@250: Opportunity for Civic Renewal in the US" workshop at Makerere University in their latest newsletter

Thank you to the Citizen Service for highlighting our America@250 workshop in their newsletter!

For more about the workshop, see 

https://drjsmafricanacademicadventures.blogspot.com/2025/11/public-lecture-america250-opportunity.html

For more about the Citizen Service, see https://thecitizenservice.org/

A Global Leap from the U.S. to Uganda Citizen Service Leader Shares Solutions-Focused Leadership

Dr. Judithanne Scourfield works with Ugandan education leaders at Makerere University This month, The Citizen Service proudly celebrated a milestone in the global reach of Power Civics! Dr. Judithanne Scourfield, Associate Professor at the University of South Florida, Fulbright Scholar, and longtime Citizen Service partner, delivered a public lecture at Makerere University in Uganda—the oldest and most prestigious university in the country. Dr. Scourfield’s lecture, America@250: Opportunity for Civic Renewal in the U.S., was part of the U.S. Embassy’s America@250 programming, supported by the U.S. Department of State. More than 65 faculty, administrators, and students attended the event, reflecting significant interest in strengthening civic engagement and leadership development. This wasn’t Dr. Scourfield’s first time bringing Power Civics abroad—last year, she presented our No-Blame, Problem-Solving training to citizens, students, and teachers in Zimbabwe. Uganda now joins a growing list of countries where The Citizen Service’s No-Blame, solution-focused leadership training is resonating with citizens and educators. In her own words, Dr. Scourfield shared: “I have had great success incorporating the Power Civics/10 Steps of No Blame Problem Solving curriculum into my courses at the University of South Florida. I wanted to share this Citizen Service resource with the faculty and students at Makerere University—and to brainstorm the ways in which this method could be adapted in the Ugandan context.” Dr. Scourfield emphasized a key insight that bridges cultures and continents: “Keeping the focus on problem-solving—and encouraging every single person to take responsibility for making improvements for the greater good in their communities—is always an effective and productive and positive approach.” Dr. Scourfield’s initiatives represent the global reach of The Citizen Service when we “Share the Power”. You, too, can Share the Power. Learn more about Dr. Scourfield’s Experience! Successful Solutions Improving YOUR Community with Pragmatism Citizen Leader, Steven Brown, with USF St. Petersburg students and faculty, Pinellas County Commissioner, and PSTA employees. Photo by Todd Post. Dr. Scourfield’s global work sharing Power Civics—from the USA to Africa—continues to demonstrate a powerful truth: when citizens are equipped with the right tools and training, real solutions follow.  One of the best success stories began right in her own classroom—when her student, U.S. Navy Veteran Steven Brown, turned a course project into a policy that improves the lives of thousands of veterans. Steven and his classmates tackled the issue of veteran access to public transportation. After seeing veterans at the Bay Pines Veteran Affairs bus stop struggle to get around, he proposed a bold solution: free bus rides for veterans. Steven and his team presented their policy proposal to the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) Board—and won an overwhelming vote to adopt his solution.  Thanks to their work, since November 10, 2023, all veterans in Pinellas County now ride PSTA buses for free. When reflecting on his journey, Steven said, “It’s the least we can do… giving back to the veteran community … should be at the forefront of this country's conversation.” And we know his advocacy wasn’t just about transportation—it was about dignity, service, and giving back. Today, Steven is focused on scaling his success: he’s working with policymakers, veterans’ organizations, and community leaders to expand the free-transit model beyond Pinellas County. His story is a powerful reminder that real civic change begins with having the courage, practical problem-solving know-how, and skills to gain adoption of pragmatic solutions. At The Citizen Service, we believe that everyone can be a problem-solver with the power to lead like Steven. 👉 Want to follow in Steven’s footsteps? Take the Citizen Service Pledge

TAP HERE TO TAKE THE CITIZEN SERVICE PLEDGE! CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CITIZEN SERVICE!

University of South Florida College of Arts & Sciences CAS Chronicles article by Anna Mayor: "Political science professor leverages Fulbright appointment to build bridges through civic education

See this USF website line: https://www.usf.edu/arts-sciences/chronicles/2025/political-science-professor-leverages-fulbright-appointment-to-build-bridges-through-civic-education

CAS Chronicles

Scourfield McLauchlan presents her book donation to the Center for the Study of the United States with Center director Edward Kaweesi. (Photo courtesy of Judithanne Scourfield McLauchlan)

Political science professor leverages Fulbright appointment to build bridges through civic education

• November 21, 2025

By Anna Mayor, College of Arts and Sciences

During her month-long Fulbright appointment in October, Judithanne Scourfield McLauchlan, an associate professor of political science in the School of Interdisciplinary Global Studies, helped launch the new Great Lakes Center for the Study of the United States at Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda.

Scourfield McLauchlan meeting with one of the Center’s researchers, George Okiror, whose work focuses on strengthening constitutionalism and the rule of law. (Photo courtesy of Judithanne Scourfield McLauchlan)

The Center hosted a farewell dinner for Scourfield McLauchlan to celebrate the USF–Makerere partnership and the ongoing research and teaching collaborations. (Photo courtesy of Judithanne Scourfield McLauchlan)

The project focused on strengthening institutions and communities in both the U.S. and abroad through political science education and training.

One of more than 400 experts chosen annually for the Fulbright Specialist Program, Scourfield McLauchlan was selected for her academic achievement, professional leadership and potential to build lasting partnerships between U.S. and international institutions. 

Working closely with her host, Senior Lecturer Edward Kaweesi, Scourfield McLauchlan supported the new center through the development of its research agenda, creating an action plan to build partnerships with U.S. universities by reviewing curriculum and connecting Makerere scholars with their counterparts in the U.S.

“It was a privilege to help launch the center,” Scourfield McLauchlan said. “I am confident it will make a meaningful impact for many years.”

The collaboration has already extended beyond the Fulbright project launch goals.

Scourfield McLauchlan with attendees after her “America@250” lecture, alongside handouts featuring the U.S. Constitution and Democracy Reignited, a publication created with the Florida Humanities Council and Newspapers in Education. (Photo courtesy of Judithanne Scourfield McLauchlan)

Scourfield McLauchlan presenting a certificate to a participant in her Faculty Development Workshop on Virtual Global Exchange (Photo courtesy of Judithanne Scourfield McLauchlan)

Scourfield McLaughlan and Kaweesi are now preparing a book proposal on civic renewal, planning to present joint research on U.S.–Uganda relations at the upcoming FPSA Conference and organizing a 2026 Constitution Day event to connect USF and Makerere students.

Review Scourfield McLauchlan’s Fulbright experience, including photos, on her blog African Academic Adventures. 

Treasure Children's Charity - Nansana, Uganda

 Previously I blogged about Makerere University undergraduate student Amon Byarugaba who helped to start the Treasure Children's Charity

See

https://drjsmafricanacademicadventures.blogspot.com/2025/10/dr-jsm-office-hours-meeting-with.html

https://drjsmafricanacademicadventures.blogspot.com/2025/10/follow-up-meeting-and-donations-for.html

I was delighted to receive this certificate for supporting the mission. We are looking forward to finding additional ways to collaborate to help the children in need in Nansana.

For more about the Treasure Children's Charity and how you can support the mission, see

https://www.treasurechild.org/

US Embassy in Uganda - facebook post - Fulbright Specialist at the Great Lakes Center for the Study of the United States at Makerere University

Thanks to the US Embassy in Kampala for announcing the productive Fulbright Specialist project with the Great Lakes Center for the Study of the United States at Makerere University!

Many thanks again to my host Dr. Edward Kaweesi!

From the Treasure Children's Charity website - about the meeting with Fulbright Specialist Dr JSM

From the Treasure Children Charity website

https://treasurechild.org/article/follow-up-meeting-and-donations-for-treasure-childrens-charity

 

Follow-Up Meeting and Donations for Treasure Children's Charity

Treasure Children’s Charity was honored to receive a special follow-up visit and donation from one of our key supporters following an inspiring encounter earlier this month.

During a lecture titled “America@250: Opportunity for Civic Renewal in the US,” our founder, Amon Byarugaba, a Political Science student at Makerere University, met with a distinguished guest who was deeply impressed by his passion for youth empowerment and community engagement. Their discussion centered around the transformative work of Treasure Children’s Charity — an NGO based in Nansana dedicated to improving the lives of underprivileged children through education, health, and mentorship programs.

Motivated by Amon’s vision and commitment, our guest decided to make a meaningful contrib

ution before returning to the United States. As she packed for her trip home, she gathered school supplies and essential toiletries from her luggage to donate to the children served by Treasure Children’s Charity. These thoughtful gifts will go a long way in supporting children’s education and daily well-being.

In her words, “I wanted to do something to help the children served by the Treasure Children’s Charity in Nansana. I was glad that Amon could come back and see me again before I flew back to the US.”

Beyond the donation, this meeting sparked new ideas for collaboration. Plans are underway to invite Amon to speak to the USFSP YMCA Civic Fellows at the Civics Institute in the United States — to share his insights on youth empowerment and community leadership. This opportunity marks another step toward expanding the charity’s global partnerships and influence.

Adding a personal touch to the exchange, Amon presented her with a pair of beautifully crafted sandals — made from recycled tires — as a symbol of sustainability and friendship. She expressed her appreciation, noting that she looked forward to wearing them in sunny Florida, where sandals are perfect all year round.

At Treasure Children’s Charity, we deeply appreciate this act of kindness and the growing network of individuals who believe in our mission. Together, we continue to build bridges of compassion and hope — empowering children and inspiring the next generation of leaders.https://treasurechild.org/article/follow-up-meeting-and-donations-for-treasure-childrens-charity

The return trip from Kampala, Uganda back to Tampa, Florida

The journey from my hotel in Kampala to my home in Madeira Beach was about 38 hours in total, including the drive from Kampala to Entebbe airport, flight #1 (Entebbe to Doha), flight #2 (Doha to JFK), and flight #3 (JFK to Tampa), and the drive from Tampa to Madeira Beach. 

It was the same route as my outbound journey -- again on Qatar Airways and JetBlue.  The flight from Entebbe to Doha left at 5:30 pm -- and then my flight in Doha departed at 1:45 AM. I have never caught a flight in the middle of the night before.  Everything at the airport was open 24 hours - and it was as bustling at midnight as it had been during the daytime on my outbound flights.

I have to say, I was very pleased with the service on the Qatar flights (and I got so much work done with the free wifi on the 15-hour flight from Doha to JFK).  I loved the airport in Doha. So many dining and shopping options!  My Plan A was to dine at the Gordon Ramsay restaurant or the Harrod's Tea Room on that way home (open 24 hours) -but - after my shopping escapades at the PopMart shop - there really wasn't much time - and I wasn't actually hungry.  So I enjoyed a flat white at the Ralph Lauren cafe that overlooks the garden. And I did take a quick stroll through the garden with the waterfall for a moment of zen before the long flight to JFK.  Despite the concerns given the US federal government shutdown, I had no issues with delays at JFK or TPA. Whew.  It was a long journey - but all went smoothly.

my host - Dr Edward Kaweesi - picked me up at the hotel and made sure to see me off on my long journey home - sad to be leaving already - but - we have developed a strong partnership with many projects underway

flight #1 Entebbe to Doha

landing in Doha

On the way TO Entebbe this shop was "Opening Soon" -- a month later - it was OPEN

Why, yes -- I DID do some holiday shopping at the airport in Doha LOL

Plan A was to try the Gordon Ramsay's or the Harrod's Tea Room (both of which open 24 hours/day) - but I didn't have that much time and I wasn't hungry - so I enjoyed a flat white in this marvelous garden - taking in the overnight views 

on the flight from Doha to JFK

when you fly through JFK on Halloween

This is the book - Ugandan political satire - that I purchased at the IRO table at the ARUA conference 

heading home from the Tampa airport 

Faculty Development Workshop: Incorporating Virtual Global Exchange (VGE) into the Curriculum: Best Practices and Syllabus Workshop

One of the main objectives of my Fulbright Specialist project with the Great Lakes Center for the Study of the United States at Makerere University was to develop connections between scholars in the Department of Political Science at Makerere University with US-based scholars working on similar research and teaching themes.

As part of this effort, I presented a faculty development workshop on Virtual Global Exchange. 

Virtual Global Exchange, or VGE, is an educational experience that connects students with peers from diverse cultural backgrounds and geographic locations through online platforms. It facilitates cross-cultural interactions, promotes international collaboration, and enhances intercultural competence without the need for physical travel.

I was absolutely thrilled that my collaborator for more than 15 years - LARISA PATLIS from ULIM in Moldova - was able to join the workshop and to present about the impacts of the VGE for her students in Moldova! 

We kicked off the workshop giving examples of best practices -- and lessons learned from the 15-year USF-ULIM partnership. Over the years we have collaborated on

**Semester-long research projects (10-12 weeks)

**Short-term research partnership (2-4 weeks)

**One-day conversations/engagement (e.g., Constitution Day event)

In each case we were connecting students in my classroom at USF in St. Petersburg, Florida and her classroom at ULIM in Chisinau, Moldova.

We first talked about our Comparative Legal Research Project -- a 10-week research partnership that we have implemented many times. 

The objective of the research project was to give the students the opportunity to work in groups with partners overseas on a comparative legal research project comparing decisions of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) and the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) involving similar legal questions.  This project was designed to develop students’ legal research and writing skills and to enhance students’ understanding of the ECtHR in comparison to the SCOTUS.

For more about the project, see our project blog: https://comparativelegalresearch.blogspot.com/

and this article  

“Creating a Global Classroom: International Collaborative Legal Research Partnerships.” Vol. 1, No. 1 (2024) Journal of Legal and Political Education pp. 1-17.  https://e-jlia.com/index.php/jlpe/article/view/1487

An example of one of our "one-time" collaborations: Constitution Day.  In 2024 we got our students from Florida and from Moldova together (virtually) to discuss Constitutions and Presidential Elections.  (There were presidential elections in Moldova (October 20) and the US (November 5).

After sharing our experiences and lessons learned during the long-term, short-term, and one-time VGE collaborations, we then turned to the hands-on portion of the workshop.

During the workshop we covered the following topics:

*What is VGE

*Key Elements of VGE

*Benefits of VGE

*Navigating Interdisciplinary Collaborati

*Challenges in Intercultural Collaboration

*Strategies to Build Intercultural Competence

*Utilizing Technology Effectively

*Backward Design (and worksheet)

*Self-reflection (and worksheet)

*Planning and Preparation (and worksheet)

*VGE Activity Sequence (icebreaker, collaboration, reflection)

*Partnership Building

*Finding International Partners

*Breakout Session

*Q&A - Discussion - Next Steps

The most exciting part of the workshop was hearing the faculty share their ideas for the courses and assignments that could lend themselves to this kind of international cooperation.  

For example, a Biology professor incorporates an assignment where students go out and get samples of diseased plants which are brought back to the lab and analyzed for what is the cause of the disease. Wouldn't that be in interesting assignment to include in a botany class in the US -- and then have the students meet to compare and contrast the various ecosystems and the other environmental factors that may influence the plants?  

A religion professor has students interview members of various faiths and write reflection papers. This project also lends itself to be incorporated in a companion course in the US - and for the students to gain a deeper understanding through a comparative analysis with their international colleagues.

These VGE assignments give our students the opportunity to think more deeply about the subject matter and to think about their course topics from varied perspectives. It is so gratifying to observe students working with their international partners.

We also discussed next steps -- how to take these ideas for possible collaboration and to identify a partner in the US, find a companion course, develop the assignment, etc.  

We are working with the International Relations Office and the Center for the Study of the US at Makerere University to keep moving the proposals for VGE collaboration forward. 

We plan for the first courses with VGE components to be "live" in the Fall 2026 semester. Stay tuned!

Special Thanks to USF World and the Faculty Learning Community (FLC) devoted to Virtual Global Exchange during the 2024-25 academic year.  And to the FLC Facilitator Dr. Nazek Jawad, whose FLC materials I adapted for this presentation at Makerere University.

It was so wonderful to have Larisa Patlis co-presenting at the workshop!

LARISA PATLIS presenting live from Chisinau, Moldova

Larisa Patlis presenting from Moldova

Presentation of Certificates -- the Director of the International Relations Office Matthias Ssemanda, the Director of the Center for the Study of the United States, Dr. Edward Kaweesi, and Dr JSM:

See also the CHUSS article about our VGE Workshop

The Authoritative Account of my [DrJSM] African *Academic* Adventures: CHUSS article about our Virtual Global Exchange (VGE) Workshop at Makerere University