Programs and Events 2009
Political Chief Lectures at the University of Sonfonia
When the University of Sonfonia in Conakry established a Political Science department, Political Chief Shannon Cazeau saw an opportunity to create a meaningful exchange between the U.S. Embassy and a group of Guinean students interested in learning about the political process. Ms. Cazeau made a special arrangement with the university to visit the students several times a year to discuss topics of interest relating to the political system of the United States. She is now in her second year with the group and plans to remain with them through their graduation next year. Her most recent visit, her eighth, focused on the U.S. Judicial System. Ms. Cazeau presented the differences between the federal and state judicial systems, the independence of the judiciary, criminal vs. penal law in the United States, and the concept of judicial review. Following her presentation, students asked a range of very interesting questions and demonstrated a strong grasp of the U.S. Constitution and of federalism. One student had even memorized, word for word, the U.S. Bill of Rights. Human Rights, U.S. elections and the presidential transition of power are just a few of the topics that Shannon Cazeau has shared with this group of political science students over the past two years. Her lectures provide a unique experience for both the students and for Ms. Cazeau. While the students learn about the U.S. government directly from an experienced U.S. diplomat, Ms. Cazeau has the privilege of hearing the perspectives of a promising group of future Guinean leaders.