By Lookout Staff

May 11, 2012 -- Santa Monica College offered its first public policy classes this semester, making it the only community college in the state to offer an Associate in Arts and Certificate of Achievement in Public Policy.

The Public Policy A.A. and Certificate of Achievement -- which have been approval by the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s office -- complement the work of the Santa Monica College Public Policy Institute led by former State Sen. Sheila Kuehl, which will present its 1st Annual Spring Symposium May 15 to 17.

"The institute provides educational opportunities that open the doors of government to students with an interest in participating in the development, analysis, and implementation of public policies beginning with their inception to their enactment," college officials said.

Next week's symposium, titled “Education and the Pursuit of Happiness," will explore whether there is any real relationship between education and happiness in life.

The symposium will feature speakers, panel discussions and a film screening covering a broad range of topics that wrestle with the question. All events are free and open to the public.

"Aside from its academic component, the institute reaches students and the public through free nonpartisan community programs exploring key economic, social and political issues," college officials said.

For more information about the Public Policy Institute and/or the newly established Associate in Arts Degree or Certificate of Achievement, contact Dr. Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein, PPI Associate Director, at PPI@smc.edu, or by calling 310.434.3541.

For information on the symposium and other public programs, call 310.434.3429.

Members of the public can support the Public Policy Institute by contacting the SMC Foundation at 310.434.4215 or donating online at: http://foundation.smc.edu/ppigiving.