Events

The Patman Center hosts thought-provoking events with speakers across the partisan spectrum and are designed to strengthen civic leadership at every level. From practical skill-building trainings to in-depth discussions with political professionals or elected officials, our programs offer valuable insights for anyone engaged in public life.

audience member taking photo of speaker with phone

Speaker Series

Throughout the semester, The Patman Center will host civic leaders at the school and give students the opportunity to learn, directly from the professionals, how to help our democracy thrive. 

Photos of our audience

View and Download Photos!

Check out photos from our LBJ Conversations with Evan Smith and Renewing Democracy Speaker Series events.

group photo with Patman center sign front and center

Undergraduate Leadership Weekend

Each year, The Patman Center hosts a transformative public service weekend for undergraduate students considering careers in public service. In July 2023, 45 undergraduates from 31 colleges participated in the four-day program to develop skills and hands-on training in public speaking, oral testimony preparation, conflict resolution, and coalition building.

silhouette of person speaking into microphone

Leadership Symposium

Each year, The Patman Center recognizes graduating Patman Scholars, welcomes incoming Patman Scholars, honors the recipient of The Patman Research Award for Advancing Democracy, and thanks its Senior Fellows for their contributions and mentorship.

The Patman Center Events

Brian McCall
Event Status
Scheduled
Monday October 20, 2025, 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
LBJ - Bass Lecture Hall
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.
University_of_Texas_at_Austin_seal
Event Status
Scheduled
Monday October 20, 2025, 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Austin F.C. Q2 Stadium
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.
RoblesJohnson
Event Status
Scheduled
Tuesday October 21, 2025, 12:15 pm - 1:45 pm
SRH 3.B10
This training will cover the core skills every campaign manager needs, from setting strategy and building a strong team structure to organizing daily operations. Participants will leave with practical tools to lead their campaign teams with confidence and clarity.
Capitol
Event Status
Scheduled
Wednesday October 22, 2025, 12:30 pm - 1:00 pm
Zoom
Discover how you can study policymaking in Washington, D.C. this May — join our Oct. 22 info session.
Brencia Berry
Event Status
Scheduled
Thursday October 23, 2025, 12:15 pm - 1:45 pm
SRH 3.B10
Join us for a hands-on training focused on the fundamentals of political strategy and the art of coalition building. Learn how to align diverse stakeholders, develop strategic plans, and build collective power to drive meaningful change. Whether you're organizing locally or leading broader campaigns, this session will equip you with tools to mobilize effectively and win together.
James Talarico.png
Event Status
Scheduled
Monday October 27, 2025, 12:15 pm - 1:15 pm
LBJ - Bass Lecture Hall
Join State Representative James Talarico, D-Austin, for a conversation on his 2026 campaign for U.S. Senate and the future of Texas politics. Cited as one of the most compelling voices in the Texas Legislature, Talarico will bring his bold ideas and clear vision for a new era of leadership in Texas.
Gina Hinojosa.png
Event Status
Scheduled
Monday October 27, 2025, 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
LBJ - Bass Lecture Hall
Join us for an engaging dialogue with a leading voice in Texas politics, current State Representative Gina Hinojosa. She recently announced her candidacy for Governor and will share her vision for the future of Texas and the path forward on key issues impacting our communities.
View all Events

Event News

A large group of Patman students

2024-2025 in Review: Memories from the Patman Center

June 11, 2025
At the close of the 2024-2025 academic year, The Patman Center proudly reflects on a year of growth, innovation, and impact.
Photo of two Patman Center students

Students On Their Experience Taking Patman Center Classes

Nov. 7, 2024
To celebrate the Patman Center’s one year anniversary, we are highlighting two LBJ students who have taken classes at The Patman Center. In the past year, The Patman Center has offered six courses at The LBJ School. Learn what its like to take a Patman Center class!
JC Dwyer headshot

Lifelong Learners On Why They Come To Patman Events

Nov. 1, 2024
The Patman Center prides itself on making civic leaders and lessons on democratic participation accessible to the public. Each week, all Patman Center events are open and free to all members of the public. Learn more about what this life-long learner gets out of attending our events.
Miles Andres

LBJ student taking Patman Center courses reflects on their impact

April 8, 2024
This month, The Patman Center is pleased to highlight one of our students, Miles Andres. He’s taking "The Politics and Issues of the Election Cycle" and "Skills for Civic Leadership", both Patman Center affiliated courses. Miles says choosing to take both classes was an easy decision.