Virtual event to examine political learning on campus

Redbirds participate in the Red Blue Experience in November 2019, discussing various perspectives on important political issues.

What structures, norms, human characteristics, and political forces affect campus climates for political learning and engagement in democracy?

Dr. Lance Lippert

Dr. Lance Lippert, a professor in the School of Communication, addressed that question in a 2019 research study on the political climate at Illinois State University. The research was part of a larger, nationwide study of campus political climates through AASCU’s American Democracy Project.

Lippert will present his results during “Political Learning on Campus: An ISU Study,” a virtual event hosted by the Center for Community Engagement and Service Learning (CESL). The free event will take place Thursday, September 10, from 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Following Lippert’s presentation, a panel of university administrators, faculty, and students will comment on the findings and share their thoughts on the University’s political climate. Attendees will also be invited to join break-out discussions to further explore experiences and strategies.

While politics are currently at the forefront of the national news, the study and virtual event were not planned because of the 2020 presidential election. “It’s actually a coincidence that we are discussing this topic during an election year,” said Harriett Steinbach, M.S. ’05, assistant director of CESL. “While it is certainly good timing, political conversations and education should be happening all the time. This important work directly touches on the University’s core value of civic engagement, and it will be ongoing.”

This is a free event, but registration is required. Please register through the online registration form. The event link will be sent to registrants on the morning of the event.