Events

Intentional 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.

National Civility Summit for Local Government

In partnership with the National League of Cities and the Iowa League of Cities, the Center for Public Democracy at Drake University will host the first annual National Civility Summit for Local Government on Wednesday December 7, 2022.

Join us online for a candid discussion on the civility and leadership challenges impacting communities.

Municipal government is closest to the people, literally and figuratively. Local government officials are connectors and leaders in their community and often the most accessible to the constituents they serve. Local leaders are the best conduit to carry the message of civility forward. The National Civility Summit for Municipal Government will provide local government officials, elected and appointed, with the tools and best practices needed to lead an engaged and participatory government.

Register Now

Democracy in Action: Summer Institute

Beginning in summer 2023, the Center for Public Democracy will convene an intensive democracy-in-action experience focused on a contemporary issue capturing the public’s imagination. Public Democracy Scholars will work with faculty and staff from within the Center to plan, develop, and implement this signature event (contributing to their Democratic Practice hours). These summer institutes, “Talking Politics, Practicing Democracy,” bring together civic leaders, policy makers, journalists, scientists, activists, scholars and citizens. The summer institute will also include leadership training for high school students who will actively engage in the institute with summit participants.

In our first year, the theme will be: Talking Politics, Practicing Democracy: What’s Happening in Rural America?

Coming Summer 2023: Civic Leadership Academy for High School Students

More information about this event will be added to this page as it becomes available.