Ambassador Carrin F. Patman (JD ’82) and Jim V. Derrek (JD ’70)

Welcome to The Patman Center for Civic and Political Engagement

Who we are
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We shape future civic leaders

Become a Patman Scholar
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We advance democracy through education and training

Discover our courses
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We champion research that helps our democracy thrive

Inaugural Patman Student Research Award
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Patman Scholar


Patman Scholars

Patman Scholars show exemplary promise to become civic leaders and receive a scholarship that supports experiential learning opportunities and internships.

Become a Patman Scholar
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Civic and Leadership Learning

Students will learn from active political professionals, elected officials, and civic leaders to build practical skills and increase democratic participation.

Discover courses
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Senior Fellows

Patman Scholars are paired with Senior Fellows who serve as mentors, helping them navigate a career in civic leadership.

San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg speaking

 

Speaker Series

Every semester, The Patman Center invites the public to attend our speaker series. Speaker series are completely free and open to everyone. 

Upcoming Events
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Alumni Giving Back

We are grateful to Ambassador Carrin F. Patman and James V. Derrick, Jr. for their support of The Patman Center. Their investment in students embraces the opportunity to strengthen America’s democracy through civic and political engagement. What starts here changes the world.

Learn more about our Founders

News

A group photo of PPIA participants

The Patman Center cohosts PPIA Public Service Weekend at The LBJ School

July 25, 2024
This past weekend, undergraduates and post-graduates traveled to The LBJ School of Public Affairs to participate in PPIA’s Public Service Weekend. The attendees of this weekend attend panels, network with one another, and complete a project by the end of the weekend. The theme of the weekend was Emerging Public Policy Issues in Texas and the American South.
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Andreana Faucette and Paulina Licon win The Patman Center's Research Award for Advancing Democracy

June 13, 2024
University of Texas at Austin undergraduate students Andreana Faucette and Paulina Licon have been awarded The Patman Center's Research Award for Renewing Democracy. This award recognizes outstanding thinking that helps our democracy thrive.
Photo of LBJ students standing in front of the American Flag

Students Go To Washington D.C. To Study Federal Policymaking

June 6, 2024
This May, LBJ students visited Washington D.C. for a Maymester course at The Patman Center called “Effective Advocacy for Federal Policymaking.” The course was taught by Professor Emily Bhandari. Students had the exciting opportunity to interview speakers and visited famed governmental institutions and world class advocacy groups.
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