As part of International Education Week 2026, PSU will join other Oregon colleges and universities for a trip to the Oregon State Capitol Building in Salem on Wednesday, November 18.

PSU will join participants from other Oregon colleges and universities, with 15 spots available to PSU participants. Spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so we encourage early registration! We are aiming for a balanced mix of international students and study abroad participants.

REGISTER FOR EVENT

Planned activities include:

• A mock congressional hearing, with students taking roles to discuss a bill.
• A self-guided Capitol tour.
• A state-level policy meeting.
• A federal staffer panel, with staff from Sen. Jeff Merkley’s and Rep. Andrea Salinas’s offices confirmed and participation from Sen. Ron Wyden’s office likely.

 
Day-of details:

• Departure: Downtown Portland (exact time & location TBD)
• Arrival in Salem: Between 9:00 and 9:30 a.m. Groups must enter Capitol security together.
• Gathering space: Willamette University will serve as our home base.
• Transportation and parking: PSU transportation details are being coordinated. Limited van parking is available at Willamette, with garage and metered street parking near the Capitol.
• Food: Light breakfast items are planned. Lunch is on your own; participants should budget approximately $20–$30.
• Attire: Business casual or school-appropriate clothing is recommended.

Some Capitol areas may be inaccessible due to holiday decorating and carpet replacement, so tour plans may change. Additional details will be shared with participants before the trip.