The Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics

Upcoming Events  

World Leaders in Wartime: Augustus the Strong, Elector of Saxony

December 04, 2024

Featured Exhibitions  

ERA in the Heartland: Ratification and Reconsideration in Kansas, 1973-1980

Recent News  

Dole and Kennedy Institutes announce funding from Election Trust Initiative supporting collaborative project

November 19, 2024

FEATURED EVENTS

Dec
04
3PM

World Leaders in Wartime: Augustus the Strong, Elector of Saxony

Event Category:

Dec
11
2PM

The 2024 Post Election Conference: National Panel

Event Category:

Bolstering Elections Initiative

The Dole Institute of Politics has partnered with the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate to evaluate why the study of our election systems is so difficult as compared to other government services and highlight models for success at the local level.

Kansas Veterans Virtual Memory Wall

Everyone has a story to tell. Share yours today. The Dole Institute proudly continues Senator Bob Dole’s commitment to honoring Kansas veterans past and present with the Kansas Veterans Virtual Memory Wall. Guests can explore our permanent installation and expanded online database of over thousands of veterans who served our country in World War II and conflicts since. Submit a veteran profile today and explore the Dole Institute’s full database.

Explore a legacy

Museum & Galleries

Our family-friendly museum galleries feature the world’s largest stained-glass American flag, Kansas Veterans Memory Wall, a permanent exhibit on the life and leadership of Senator Bob Dole, and special exhibits in the Elizabeth Dole Gallery & Reading Room.

“For greatness lies not in what office you hold, but in how honest you are, in how you face adversity, and in your willingness to stand fast in hard places.”

Bob Dole

Civic Education & Engagement

The Dole Institute offers students of all ages and their teachers opportunities to grow their understanding of our country’s history and the democratic process, and opportunities to engage with politics and government at all levels. Become a leader in your community and make a difference.

The Dole Archives

The Robert and Elizabeth Dole Archives and Special Collections is one of the largest Congressional archives in the country, documenting the lives and careers of Senators Bob and Elizabeth Dole. Manuscripts, photographs, film, objects, and other unique materials document a wide range of topics central to the political, social, and cultural history of 20th century America and beyond.

Student Advisory Board

Open to all students at the University of Kansas, the Dole Institute Student Advisory Board brings members of the Jayhawk community together who share common interests in community service, government, and politics. Together, they broaden our understanding of the U.S. and the world at large through discussions and events on all topics that intersect politics.

“What empowerment is all about [is] finding something which infuses you with a sense of mission, with a passion for your life's work. I don't believe there is one path for women or one nature to fulfill. Real fulfillment, real empowerment is often different than we imagine and better than we plan.”

Elizabeth Dole

The Dole Legacies

Robert J. Dole

Robert “Bob” Joseph Dole found strength in a modest Midwestern background to overcome devastating war wounds and become a towering figure in American politics.

Elizabeth H. Dole

Elizabeth Hanford Dole aspired to public service from a young age. A trailblazing figure for women in leadership, she broke barriers in politics and government throughout her own career and mentored new generations.

The Dole Institute is committed to universal accessibility in all programs and resources. We are in the process of making all of our web projects fully accessible. An accessible version of the material represented on this site will be made available upon request. Please contact us at doleinstitute@ku.edu to request the material be made available in an accessible format, or for general assistance.