Creating public good: BGSU hosts elected officials and policymakers for engaging, nonpartisan discussion on democracy

The University’s annual Day of Dialogue empowered attendees to work toward changing the culture of nonpartisan democratic engagement

Bowling Green State University on Thursday hosted a day-long event featuring engaging, nonpartisan panel discussions with several Ohio elected officials, policymakers and learning community members in a collective effort to support a healthy democracy through public discourse.

The University’s annual Day of Dialogue invited speakers to share diverse perspectives and engage in civil debate, sparking thoughtful conversations on how to change the culture of nonpartisan democratic engagement in the United States.

Former Ohio Attorney General Betty Montgomery ‘70 and former Ohio Department of Higher Education Chancellor Randy Gardner ’81, ’87 were among the many distinguished guests at the event.

The event began with members of the Ohio House of Representatives discussing bipartisan collaboration in a panel moderated by Bowling Green Mayor Mike Aspacher. Panelists included Ohio Rep. Haraz N. Ghanbari, Ohio Rep. Michele Grim, Ohio Rep. Joe Miller '91 and Ohio Rep. DJ Swearingen '09.

BGSU student leaders tackled student leadership and political involvement during a panel moderated by Dr. Jacob Clemens, senior director of the C. Raymond Marvin Center for Student Leadership and Civic Engagement.

Later in the day, BGSU Trustee Willa Ebersole ‘90, CEO of Ebersole Advocates, and Ohio Sen. Theresa Gavarone discussed representation in politics. Another panel focused on individual engagement in politics.

Started in 2020, BGSU Day of Dialogue programming provides learning community members an opportunity to discuss their role as contributors to a public university for the public good.