At its heart, democracy is a collective, lived experience that requires an active, informed public. And yet, the thoughtful political discussion and civility at the center of the democratic experience seem to be endangered.
By virtue of Drake’s strengths and opportunities, we can help reclaim the American project of forming a more perfect union. Drake will stand boldly and bravely in creating a hub for democratic discourse, dialogue, and action focused on renewing a government of the people, by the people, and for the people.
Programs & Initiatives
We prioritize collaborative, innovative, and novel approaches to the project of sustaining multi-dimensional public participation and civic leadership.
Intentional event programming shapes the learning experiences of the Public Democracy Scholars and other Drake students with an interest in politics, community leadership, public service, law, policy, or social change.
For more information about the Ron and Jane Olson Institute for Public Democracy at Drake, please reach out to one of our Co-Executive Directors below.