Past Events

Please join the Annette Strauss Institute, the School of Civic Leadership, and The Patman Center for Civic and Political Engagement for a civic dialogue dinner event at Austin F.C. Q2 Stadium. Transportation from UT campus will be provided.

Join Texas State University System Chancellor Brian McCall for an engaging conversation on the future of higher education in Texas—covering key challenges, opportunities, and the evolving role of universities in shaping the state's workforce and communities.

Campaign events are powerful tools for energizing supporters, attracting media, and building momentum. This session covers how to strategically plan, promote, and execute events that leave a lasting impact.

Join us for a dynamic conversation with Texas State Senator Sarah Eckhardt (TX-14) as she reflects on the most pressing issues she tackled during the recent legislative session, including reproductive healthcare access, strengthening local government authority and supporting public safety reforms.

Social media can amplify your message – or bury it. This session explores how to build targeted, compelling strategies that turn online engagement into real-world support. Learn what works, what doesn’t, and how to move from clicks to votes.

Join us for a conversation with Austin Mayor Kirk Watson on the challenges and opportunities facing the city today. He’ll discuss efforts to address affordability and housing, public safety and policing, and the future of transportation and mobility in a rapidly changing Austin.

Learn how campaigns are using online and text-based polling to reach voters and gather real-time insights. This session will cover modern tools and techniques that are reshaping political strategy in a digital world.

Join us for a moderated conversation with State Representative Jeff Leach (TX-67) on the politics and issues shaping Texas today. Chair of the House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee, Representative Leach will share his perspective on the state of our criminal justice system, the future of Texas' courts, and what to expect as we look ahead to the 2026 elections.

Direct mail remains one of the most trusted and targeted tools in a campaign’s arsenal. In this session, we’ll explore how to craft mail that grabs attention, resonates with voters, and drives action. From design to targeting, learn how to make your mail move the electorate.

Media coverage can boost your campaign without spending a dime. This session explores how to earn press, craft newsworthy moments, and turn coverage into lasting momentum.