Visiting Fellows discuss structural democracy with SAB members

November 3, 2024 - Features

by Jacob McCarty | Discussion Groups Coordinator

Dole Visiting Fellows J.D. Rackey and Micheal Thorning educate members of the Dole Institute Student Advisory Board about the Bipartisan Policy Center’s mission and their work in structural democracy. Photo by Kenna McNally.

In late October, experts from the Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) visited the Dole Institute to host two exciting events, fostering meaningful discussions about government efficiency and bipartisan collaboration. Their visit continues the Dole Institute and Bipartisan Policy Center’s ongoing programmatic partnership, which began last fall.

Ahead of their public event, they hosted a private workshop for members of the Dole Institute Student Advisory Board. It began with an engaging presentation from the BPC’s Micheal Thorning, Director of Structural Democracy, and J.D. Rackey, Senior Policy Analyst, for Structural Democracy. They highlighted their ongoing efforts in creating bipartisan efforts in Congress, focusing on initiatives to strengthen collaboration among staff and elected officials between parties.

Members of the Student Advisory Board discuss possible ideas with BPC Visiting Fellow J.D Rackey in a break-out session. Photo by Kenna McNally.

Following the presentation, attendees enjoyed a dinner where students had the unique opportunity to seek advice from the speakers and ask questions about their work. During the discussion, the focus was primarily on what to do during post-graduation and the opportunities that are available with various degrees.

Later in the evening, students participated in a hands-on activity that put them in charge of creating innovative solutions that will build on the collaboration and bipartisan efforts being made in Congress. Guided by Thorning and Rackey, students got the chance to propose their creative ideas, such as the development of an app to track legislation, the use of AI to create transparency on bills, and the creation of another department dedicated to promoting bipartisanship.

Dole Institute Student Advisory Board members had the opportunity to network with guests from the Bipartisan Policy Center, including John Richter, who oversees the organization’s Congress Project. Photo by Kenna McNally.

The following morning, Thorning and Rackey returned for a public program that focused on governmental efficiency. Each provided an in-depth presentation on their current programs and different strategies that are being utilized, while also answering questions from students and members of the community.

Michael Thorning and J.D. Rackey answer questions from students and community members during their public program on October 30. Photo by Jackson DeAndrea.

Both events were highly engaging, sparking meaningful conversations among participants and those who watched online. Reflecting on my experience, I am grateful to have been a part of these programs and learn about what the BPC is doing with Congress. Learning about their current campaigns and projects was both inspiring and motivating. I was left feeling optimistic about the future of bipartisan cooperation and governmental efficiency.

If you are interested in getting involved with the Student Advisory Board, please email dolesab@ku.edu and learn more online at doleinstitute.org.

Jacob McCarty serves as one of the Discussion Group Coordinators. In this position, he helps to promote the events, provides assistance to guests, and make sure the programs run smoothly. He is currently a sophomore studying Political Science, Public Administration, and Leadership Studies. Jacob is also an active member in his community, being an advocate for a wide range of issues.

About the Dole Institute
The Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics, a vibrant forum for civil discourse, civic engagement, and idea exchange across the political spectrum, features historical archives, exhibits, and public programs for all ages. Inspired by the public service of native Kansan, veteran, legislator, and statesman Senator Bob Dole and his wife Senator Elizabeth Dole, visitor galleries feature changing exhibits, the Kansas Veterans Virtual Memory Wall, architectural-scale stained glass American flag, and September 11 memorial.