Announcing the GRIC/PAAC Political Management Scholarship

Published on: February 7, 2024

The Government Relations Institute of Canada (GRIC) and the Public Affairs Association of Canada (PAAC) are pleased to announce the GRIC/PAAC Political Management Scholarship for students of the Clayton H. Riddell Master of Political Management (MPM) Program at Carleton University.

This scholarship is valued at $2,000 annually to support one student from a historically, persistently, and/or systematically marginalized group who has demonstrated an interest in government relations, public affairs, and a commitment to academic achievement.

Launched in 2011, the MPM program is the only graduate program in Canada that prepares students for professional work in and around politics. MPM graduates are now working at every order of government and every region of the country, across the political spectrum, in public service, and in the private and voluntary sectors. As a leader in work-integrated learning, the program also provides opportunities for all students to complete a professional placement with a host employer. The program attracts a diverse group of students from all regions and backgrounds across Canada. 

GRIC and PAAC endorse MPM for its contributions to the sector. GRIC and PAAC members have been active in creating placement opportunities for MPM students and graduates seeking to pursue careers in government relations and public affairs. Additionally, for many years, members and students have received information about events which connect a growing network of students, respected professors, practitioners and alumni across Canada. 

Student funding, like this new award, is essential to ensuring continued access and student success in the MPM program. GRIC and PAAC are delighted to strengthen our support for students through this scholarship. 

A full list of our endorsed professional development programs can be found here. 

Quotes:

"As an association striving to increase public understanding of the role of government relations and advocacy in our public policy process, it was a natural fit to support the Masters of Political Management program and the creation of this new scholarship. Together, GRIC and PAAC are proud to support more students pursuing careers in government relations.” 
- Megan Buttle, GRIC President 

 “To support the next generation of public affairs professionals, we are honoured to be providing this scholarship that will be awarded to one student from a historically, persistently, and/or systematically marginalized group.” 
- Alexis Easton, PAAC President

“Our program was created to build the skills, knowledge, and ethics of those working in the political management field in Canada. Student funding, like this new award, is essential to ensuring continued access and student success in the MPM program. We’re delighted to build on the important relationships we have with GRIC, PAAC and their membership.” 
-Jennifer Robson, MPM Director