The Ones Revitalizing Democracy

RON AND JANE OLSON INSTITUTE for Public Democracy

By virtue of Drake’s unique strengths and opportunities, we are helping reclaim the American project of forming a more perfect union. The Olson Institute for Public Democracy is a hub for democratic discourse, dialogue, and action focused on renewing a government of the people, by the people, and for the people.

Points of Celebration:

$5 million naming gift from Ron and Jane Olson
20 Public Democracy Scholars to date
Established the Patty and Jim Cownie Practitioner in Residence position
Founded the Pettengill Civic Leadership Academy

Power of the People

America’s democracy requires the participation of informed and engaged citizens. Drake is leveraging its resources to foster democratic practice, promote civility, and prepare the next generation of community leaders.

Building on an Existing Foundation

Drake Law School’s Constitutional Law Center is one of just four centers throughout the nation established and funded by Congress to foster study of the U.S. Constitution and its roots, formation, principles, and development.

Two law students sitting in the Drake Law School’s Constitutional Law Center

The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center is a global leader in applied research and programming in the areas of civility, character development, and ethical leadership.

Ribbon cutting with Robert D. and Billie Ray at the Robert D. and Billie Ray Center

Drake Law School’s Legislative Practice Center combines coursework with legislative internships—providing students the unparalleled opportunity to draft bills, lobby legislators, and attend subcommittee meetings.

Two law students at Drake Law School’s Legislative Practice Center doing a mock trial

The Harkin Institute for Public Policy and Citizen Engagement serves as a nonpartisan collaborative space for policy makers, community members, and students to tackle today’s most pressing, complex, and vital issues.

Senator Tom Harkin sitting on a couch with a guest at the Harkin Center

The School of Journalism and Mass Communication champions the First Amendment’s role as a guardian of democracy by promoting a robust, independent press.

Students at a School of Journalism and Mass Communication class

FOR THE ONES WHO WILL

Shape Our Country’s Futures

The Public Democracy Scholars program makes Drake the school of choice for politically minded high school students. It prepares students to be civic leaders through dedicated coursework and immersive engagement.

“I was first interested in the Public Democracy Scholars program because I wanted to make a difference and continue to learn,” says Raya Hoppe, a second-year scholar. “We are in a critical time for politics, and civil discourse is necessary. The Olson Institute for Public Democracy provides a space to have an open-minded conversation and to learn from local, state, and national politicians.“

Feel the Momentum of The Ones

Share the excitement of Drake’s progress toward its audacious goal.

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who share the vision.

By elevating Drake together, we will secure a more vibrant future for those who follow our footsteps. Join the ones who will transform Drake’s vision into a reality by adding your support to the campaign for the brave & bold.

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