EVENTS & PROGRAMS

Discover and engage with leaders and experts

Throughout the year, the Dole Institute welcomes national and local leaders and field experts to Lawrence for free, engaging public programming. Here, you can explore our full catalog of past events, learn more about our signature programs and awards, and explore who's coming soon to the Institute.

Former Kansas governors Kathleen Sebelius (D) and Mike Hayden (R) speak about the changes in Kansas politics and their experiences at various levels of state government.

Dole Forum

Throughout the year, the Dole Institute hosts leaders and experts for contemporary discussions through our Dole Forum programs. These programs are a major part of our educational programming for students at the University of Kansas and the broader community.

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Scott O'Connor, the eldest son of former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, speaks about his mother's legacy at the 2024 Dole Leadership Prize.

The Dole Leadership Prize

Annually, the Dole Institute awards an individual or nonprofit who’s public service inspires others with The Dole Leadership Prize. Additionally, the prize includes a $25,000 award to support their efforts.

Acclaimed journalist and KU alumnus Bill Kurtis is honored at the 2024 Dole Lecture.

The Dole Lecture

Each spring, the Dole Institute commemorates the date on which Senator Bob Dole was critically wounded while serving in Italy during World War II. To honor Senator Dole’s courageous recovery and commitment to serve the nation, we welcome a guest to the Institute who embodies the commitments Senator Dole held throughout his career in public service.

Sharon McMahon speaks about her leadership in communication and education at the 2025 Elizabeth Dole Women in Leadership Lecture.

The Elizabeth Dole Women in Leadership Lecture

Named after former U.S. Senator Elizabeth Dole, the Elizabeth Dole Women in Leadership Lecture honors her long career in public service by featuring women who break barriers, make significant contributions to their fields, and reach positions of leadership. Dole served as commissioner of the Federal Trade Commission, Secretary of Transportation, Secretary of Labor, President of the American Red Cross, and U.S. Senator representing the state of North Carolina.

Former Representatives Cheri Bustos (D) IL-17 and Luke Messer (R) ID-6 address audience questions on bipartisan policymaking on Capitol Hill. Photo by Kenna McNally.

Discussion Groups

Each semester, the Dole Institute selects local or national practitioners to serve as a Dole Fellow. As part of their appointment, Fellows craft a series of programs designed to build appreciation for civic or political involvement with students at the University of Kansas and the surrounding community.

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Moderator Diana Carlin speaks with FLARE's Myra Gutin during a program on influential moments in the history of the First Lady.

Presidential Lecture Series

Featuring nationally recognized public servants, historians, strategists, journalists, political operatives, and more, the Presidential Lecture Series highlights the specific aspects of political leadership in the United States, especially that of the presidency.

Former NBC News chief political analyst Chuck Todd speaks at the 2024 Post Election Conference's National Panel.

The Post Election Conference

Biennially, the Dole Institute convenes state and national strategists, pollsters, journalists, and campaign officials to analyze how and why the elections were won and lost, and what they will mean for the next two years.

Dole Forum
Dole Leadership Prize
Dole Lecture
Elizabeth Dole Women in Leadership Lecture
Presidential Lecture Series
Discussion Groups
The Post Election Conference

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.