"The inauguration and swearing-in ceremony is such a symbolic tradition for our country," said Mike Smith, president of The Washington Center. "Every four years Americans tune in to the coverage of the inauguration and a lucky few watch from the parade route. The Washington Center gives students that opportunity for a front row seat, while at the same time learning about the transition of political power from today's political leaders and journalists."

Students will hear inauguration staff, political leaders and White House news correspondents share personal stories of presidential campaigns, elections and national policy. Historians and renowned professors will host interactive discussions on political appointments, congressional confirmations and policy agendas. Attend few of the speakers include:

Ken Walsh, Chief White House Correspondent, U.S. News & World ReportScott Horsley, White House Correspondent, National Public RadioJanet Hook, Political Reporter, The Wall Street JournalSteve Scully, Senior Executive Producer/ Host, C-SPANBrian Lamb, Founder, C-SPANOwen Ullman, Editor, USA TodayTavis Smiley, Host, The Tavis Smiley Show, PBSBen LaBolt, Senior Advisor, Presidential Inaugural Committee Frank Fahrenkoph, Co-Chair, Commission on Presidential Debates Michael McCurry, Co- Chair, Commission on Presidential DebatesEugene Kang, Special Projects Coordinator/Confidential Asst. to the Office of the President Grover Norquist, President, Americans for Tax ReformRodell Mollineau, President, American Bridge 21st CenturyDon Ritchie, United States Senate Historian              

For more information on Inside Washington 2013 academic seminars, please visit www.twc.edu/inauguration.

About The Washington Center

The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars is an independent, nonprofit organization that serves hundreds of colleges and universities in the United States and other countries by providing selected students challenging opportunities to work and learn in Washington, D.C., for academic credit. The largest program of its kind, The Washington Center has more than 50,000 alumni who have become leaders in numerous professions and nations around the world. It was established in 1975. For more information visit: www.twc.edu.

SOURCE The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars