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.

Pettengill Civic Leadership Academy for High School Students

July 8-10, 2026 | Drake University

The Donna and Darnell Pettengill Civic Leadership Academy is an exclusive opportunity for high school juniors to learn from scholars, policymakers, and thought leaders.

The Academy immerses 28 select high school juniors in an intensive and rewarding leadership development program that will give students the skills to stand out as student leaders. 

Apply here.

National Civility Summit for Local Government: Adaptability in a Changing Environment

February 11, 2026 | 1:00 – 4:00 PM CST | Online

Today’s local leaders face rapidly shifting challenges—from natural disasters and population changes to evolving economic, social, and political pressures. Success requires adaptability, resilience, and a commitment to civility even in times of uncertainty.

This year’s National Civility Summit for Local Government will offer real-world strategies, practical tools, and peer insights to help you navigate change with confidence. Through keynote sessions, interactive discussions, and opportunities to connect with fellow leaders, you’ll explore approaches to addressing challenges, building trust, and strengthening your community—no matter what the future holds.

This program is ideal for mayors, city council members, administrators, clerks, chamber officials, and other local leaders committed to building stronger, more responsive communities.

Register here.

Speakers:

• Clarence Anthony, CEO & Executive Director, National League of Cities
• Bill Gates, Director of the Mechanics of Democracy Laboratory and Professor of Practice at Watts College of Public Service of Community Solutions, Arizona State University; former chairman of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors
• Tiffany Tauscheck, President & CEO, Greater Des Moines Partnership
• Marty Martin, President, Drake University
• Mickey Shields, Deputy Director, Iowa League of Cities
• Scott Raecker, Executive Director, The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center and Co-Executive Director, Ron and Jane Olson Institute for Public Democracy at Drake University
• Tabitha Choquette, Director of Programs, The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center, Drake University

Video of 2025 Speakers

Robert Palmer, General Counsel & Director of Govt. Affairs, Iowa League of Cities

• Why Civility is Important

Scott Raecker, Executive Director, The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University

• Context of Civility
• Clarity, Habits, and Mindsets Needed for Civility

 Clarence Anthony, CEO & Executive Director, National League of Cities

• Civil Discourse, Engagement, and Trust Building

2024 Speakers

• Welcome and Opening Remarks - Robert Palmer, General Counsel & Director of Govt. Affairs, Iowa League of Cities
• The Context of Civility - Scott Raecker, Executive Director, The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University
• The Role of Civility and Stability in Community Prosperity - Tiffany Tauscheck, President and CEO, Greater Des Moines Partnership
• Leadership & Civility - Secretary Tom Vilsack, US Secretary of Agriculture
• Leading in Divisive and Difficult Times - Bob Andeweg, Mayor of Urbandale, Iowa, and Scott Raecker
• Conversations with a Municipal Leader and Civility Trainer - Kelley Packer, Executive Director, Association of Idaho Cities, and Alan Kemp, Executive Director, Iowa League of Cities
• The Evolving Role of Local Leaders: Combatting Hate by Leading with Civility - Clarence Anthony, CEO & Executive Director, National League of Cities
• Why We Do What We Do - Kerrie Lauck, Director of Education, Arkansas Municipal League
• Structure of Civility - Robert Palmer
• Creating a Culture of Civility - Scott Raecker
• A Message from Drake University President, Marty Martin
• Conclusion and Closing Remarks - Scott Raecker and Robert Palmer 
• A Special Message from Stephen Benjamin, White House Senior Advisor and Director of the Office of Public Engagement

This event is hosted by: