Democracy and Public Policy Research Network at BGSU continues to build momentum statewide, welcoming former Ohio governors to campus

First-ever leadership luncheon will feature former Ohio Govs. Richard Celeste and Bob Taft

In the six months since its founding, the Democracy and Public Policy Research Network in the Department of Political Science at Bowling Green State University has moved quickly to establish itself as a leading, nonpartisan voice informing policymakers in Ohio and beyond. The network also provides BGSU students with real-world, hands-on experiential learning opportunities and creative activities, including faculty-guided research projects, speaking engagements and workshops.

Conducting three public opinion polls, launching a student-run podcast and supporting a new initiative designed to promote civil dialogue around various issues, the Democracy and Public Policy Research Network looks to hold its inaugural leadership luncheon, featuring former Ohio Govs. Richard Celeste and Bob Taft.

“The luncheon provides us with an opportunity to reflect on our accomplishments through student experiences, faculty research and public engagement,” said Dr. Robert Alexander, professor of political science and founding director of the network. “Having such distinguished public servants share their experiences with the BGSU community speaks to our desire to be a force for the public good through rational civil discourse at the highest levels.”

Scheduled for Tuesday, April 1, the free event will feature a bipartisan conversation with Celeste and Taft, highlighting the important role leadership and civility can play during challenging times and the value of robust, civic dialogue when conflicts arise.

Current network advisory board chair and former state legislator and Ohio Department of Higher Education chancellor Randy Gardner will facilitate the conversation with Celeste and Taft. Gardner previously worked with the former governors while serving in the Ohio House and Senate.

“It is a tremendous honor to have Ohio governors who served a collective 16 years join us at our inaugural leadership luncheon,” Gardner said. “Our organization is quickly becoming a respected program elevating civil discourse and promoting democracy and the public good.”

The inaugural luncheon advances the network’s mission of promoting civic literacy through research, discussions and events that foster deeper understanding of the importance of community engagement.

For more information and to register, visit BGSU.edu/DEPOluncheon. Registration closes on March 25.