Popcorn & Easter Eggs: KU News & Spring Traditions
The Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics at the University of Kansas is gearing up for a busy spring, with a diverse lineup of events planned for the coming months. Although the institute has already announced a portion of its spring programming, a recent announcement details the second half of the schedule, offering a mix of political discussion, community engagement, and family-friendly activities.
Kansas Speaks: Bridging Policy and Public Opinion
On , the Dole Institute’s Student Advisory Board will present “Kansas Speaks: The Crossroads of Policy and Public Opinion.” This student-led program will delve into the findings of the 2023 Kansas Speaks public opinion survey, produced by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University. The survey covers a range of pressing issues for Kansans, including marijuana legalization, Medicaid expansion, abortion rights, and climate change.
The discussion will feature Alexandra Middlewood, the Kansas Speaks Policy Fellow, alongside Kansas State Representatives Christina Haswood and Nick Hoheisel, both members of the Kansas Future Caucus. The program aims to connect data-driven insights from the survey with the real-world experiences of legislators and the concerns of young people and the broader Kansas community. Allie Haggar, coordinator for the Student Advisory Board, will moderate the discussion.
A Family Tradition Continues: Easter Egg Roll with Dole
A Lawrence tradition is set to return on : the Easter Egg Roll with Dole. The event, a staple for local families, promises a morning of fun activities, including a White House-style egg roll race, an egg hunt, games, and crafts. The Dole Institute has confirmed the event is free and open to the public, and will proceed regardless of weather conditions.
Looking Back at Previous Programming
The announcement of these events builds on a spring schedule that already included the Kansas Security Conference, featuring a keynote address from retired U.S. Gen. Philip Breedlove. The Dole Lecture and the return of “The Counselors” program are as well part of the institute’s spring offerings. The Kansas Security Conference, in particular, signals the Dole Institute’s commitment to addressing critical issues of national and regional security.
The Dole Institute’s Role in Civic Engagement
The Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics, named after the long-serving Kansas Senator and former presidential candidate, has established itself as a non-partisan hub for political education and civic engagement. The institute regularly hosts events featuring prominent political figures, scholars, and community leaders, fostering dialogue and debate on critical policy issues. Its focus on student involvement, as demonstrated by the “Kansas Speaks” program, underscores its commitment to cultivating the next generation of informed and engaged citizens.
The institute’s programming reflects a broader trend of universities taking a more active role in promoting civic education and political participation. In an era of increasing political polarization and declining trust in institutions, organizations like the Dole Institute play a crucial role in providing a space for constructive dialogue and fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges facing democracy.
Beyond Politics: Community and Family Focus
While the Dole Institute is fundamentally a political institution, its programming extends beyond strictly political topics. The Easter Egg Roll with Dole, for example, is a purely community-focused event designed to bring families together. This demonstrates the institute’s understanding of its role as a community resource and its commitment to serving the broader public, not just those directly involved in politics.
The continued popularity of events like the Easter Egg Roll highlights the importance of accessible, family-friendly activities in fostering a sense of community. In a time when many families are juggling busy schedules and facing economic pressures, free events like this provide a valuable opportunity for connection and recreation.
What to Expect in the Coming Months
As the spring semester progresses, the Dole Institute is poised to host a series of events that will engage students, community members, and political leaders. The “Kansas Speaks” program promises to offer valuable insights into the views of Kansans on key policy issues, while the Easter Egg Roll will provide a fun and festive experience for families. The institute’s continued commitment to non-partisan dialogue and civic engagement positions it as a vital resource for the state of Kansas and beyond.
The Dole Institute’s website offers further details on these and other upcoming events. Interested individuals are encouraged to visit the site for more information and to register for events as needed.