USI Political Science, Public Administration and Philosophy Department hosts series of election year events

The University of Southern Indiana Political Science, Public Administration and Philosophy Department in the College of Liberal Arts will host a series of events on campus, including a Presidential Debate Watch Party and a post-election analysis and discussion around the 2024 presidential election. All events are open to the public at no charge and are funded through a Strengthening Campus and Community Election Engagement Grant from the Community-Engaged Alliance.  

"We are excited about hosting these events on the USI campus during the Fall Semester," says Dr. Matt Hanka, Professor of Political Science. "With Indiana's voter turnout among the lowest in the nation and Vanderburgh County's voter turnout among the lowest in Indiana, these events are more important than ever to foster greater civic responsibility and engagement in the political process for our students and the USI community."    

From 7 to 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 10 in WA 1 (Forum 1), the Presidential Debate Watch Party will feature a discussion on critical thinking, civil discourse and civic engagement. The discussion will start after 7 p.m., and the debate will follow at 8 p.m. Pizza and refreshments will be provided.    

From 6 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, October 24 in Kleymeyer Hall in the Liberal Arts Center, the department will host a watch party for Indiana’s gubernatorial debate hosted by the Indiana Debate Commission.  

From 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, November 7 in Kleymeyer Hall, the department will host a post-election analysis and discussion with Dr. Matt Hanka, Professor of Political Science, and Dr. Nick LaRowe, Associate Professor of Political Science and Pre-Law Coordinator.  

Additionally, the department is holding a week-long voter registration drive from Monday through Friday, September 16-20, and an annual reading of the U.S. Constitution in the University Center Courtyard from noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday, September 17. 

The Political Science, Public Administration and Philosophy Department's mission is to educate students on local and national issues, help them become active and engaged citizens, acquire practical experience and develop connections in the community and region and learn how to critically assess contemporary political events and identify practical solutions to social problems.

For more information, contact Hanka at mjhanka@usi.edu, or visit the Political Science, Public Administration and Philosophy Department website.