Dole Institute introduces new afternoon series


LAWRENCE — The Dole Institute of Politics at the University of Kansas has announced the launch of its new Director’s Series. Programs are selected based on diverse political topics that are of particular interest to the institute’s director. 

Each program in the series will take place at 3 p.m. and include a closing reception where attendees can meet and converse with guest speakers.

“Feedback has indicated the public really enjoys our afternoon programming,” said Bill Lacy, Dole Institute director. “This is the perfect opportunity to continue the interview style of our evening programs and incorporate some fascinating topics that reflect my personal interests in politics and a variety of other subjects, and topics that are in keeping with our balanced programming.”

The Director’s Series will kick off this semester with a novel about U.S. presidential campaigning, followed by a discussion on conflict inside the GOP, a book about President Reagan’s leadership and an interview with the Environmental Protection Agency Region 7 administrator.

All public programs at the Dole Institute are free and open to the public.

The spring 2015 Director’s Series programs:

“Advance Man” with author Steven Jacques
3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26, at the Dole Institute 
The Director’s Series kicks off with the first Fellow at the Dole Institute, Steven Jacques, and his new novel, “Advance Man,” which goes behind the scenes of a fictional presidential race to show a challenging, secretive, yet very public 72 hours of American political campaigning from the point of view of the lead advance man. This event includes a book sale and signing.

"GOP Division: The Fight Between Libertarians and Social Conservatives" with Ben Domenech
3 p.m. March 26, at the Dole Institute
Ben Domenech is the editor of the online publication The Federalist. He will provide a fascinating look at a growing problem in the GOP that will manifest itself clearly in the 2016 Republican presidential primaries. 

“The Reagan Enigma: 1964-1980” with author Thomas Reed
3 p.m. April 7 at the Dole Institute
Reed ran the president's first California gubernatorial campaign, and his book provides insight into the evolution of a leader.

An Afternoon with Karl Brooks
3 p.m. April 16 at the Dole Institute
Karl Brooks is a friend of the institute and former KU faculty member in history who currently serves in the Obama administration as EPA Region 7 Administrator. Brooks will discuss current efforts at the EPA and what is on the horizon. 

The Dole Institute of Politics is dedicated to promoting public service, civic engagement and politics. It is located on KU’s west campus and, in addition to being home to the Robert J. Dole Archive & Special Collections, offers free public programming with world-renowned guest speakers on a variety of topics that intersect politics, as well as research and educational opportunities for professionals and students of all ages.

 More information on all programs, as well as ongoing additions to the schedule, can be found on the Dole Institute’s website or by calling 785-864-4900.

Thu, 02/19/2015

author

Melanie Coen

Media Contacts

Melanie Coen

Dole Institute of Politics

785-864-1156