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.

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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

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Event Status
Scheduled
Tuesday November 18, 2025, 12:15 pm - 1:15 pm
LBJ - SRH 3.122
Join us for a moderated conversation with Nathan Johnson, Texas State Senator and current Democratic candidate for Attorney General, as he shares his vision for the future of justice and governance in Texas. The discussion will explore his policy priorities, campaign goals, and perspectives on the evolving political landscape.
Tony Gonzales.png
Event Status
Scheduled
Monday December 1, 2025, 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
LBJ - Bass Lecture Hall
Join us for an engaging discussion about public service and the pressing political issues shaping our nation today. Congressman Gonzales, who represents Texas’s 23rd District and served in the U.S. Navy with deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan, will share insights from his career in public life and his perspective on what’s happening in Washington, D.C. and Texas.
Event Status
Scheduled
Monday December 1, 2025, 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
LBJ - Bass Lecture Hall
Join us for a warm and uplifting networking reception honoring the life and legacy of Lt. General Norm Lezy, whose leadership and service continue to inspire generations. This gathering offers a special opportunity to celebrate his impact while connecting with colleagues, friends, and community members.
Mihaela Plesa.png
Event Status
Scheduled
Tuesday December 2, 2025, 12:15 pm - 1:45 pm
SRH 3.B10
Join us for this engaging conversation with St. Rep. Plesa (D- Plano), who will share her experiences running and winning in a competitive district, offering a case study in elections, strategy, and public service.
Beto O'Rourke.png
Event Status
Scheduled
Monday December 8, 2025, 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
LBJ - Bass Lecture Hall
Join us for a dynamic conversation featuring the former congressman about the current state of the Democratic Party, the outlook for Texas politics heading into 2026, and the pressing issues shaping our state and nation today.
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.