Join the Student Advisory Board

Lead, Network, Get Involved, Give Back

The Dole Institute Student Advisory Board is a group of KU students united by common interests in community service, government, and politics. Together, we broaden our understanding of the U.S. and the world at large through discussions and events on all topics that intersect politics. We also support our local community, promote the importance of voting and being politically involved, and value the chance to speak our minds. In addition, we work with the Dole Institute staff to plan events and bring speakers we want to see at KU.

At the Dole Institute, we’re in the driver’s seat of our futures. We also get a FRONT ROW SEAT to meet some of the world’s top leaders and professionals. Things you might enjoy as an active SAB member:

  • Opportunities to meet and greet guests (like President Bill Clinton, President George H.W. Bush, Secretary of State Madeline Albright, World Bank economist John Page, Pulitzer-prize winning journalist, Bob Woodard, and others!)
  • The opportunity to socialize, get involved & give back! The Dole Institute’s SAB is comprised of many different students with different majors! Don’t think you have to study political science to come around here; if you’re interested in politics or leadership at all, this is the place for you! SAB members plan social activities, as well as get involved in community service activities
  • Invitations to dine with the guest speakers, community members, KU faculty, students from other organizations, and Dole Institute staff
  • Networking! Many SAB members make connections with experts at the Dole Institute for internships and jobs in their respective fields
  • Financial assistance through our Internship Assistance Program, Hemenway Public Service Award, Robert J. Dole Service to Country Award, and Elizabeth Dole Award, where active SAB members are given first priority during the selection process.
  • The opportunity to bond and receive guidance from engaged members of the Friends of the Dole Institute through the Friends Mentoring Program. Friends are professionals and experts in their own right and many are also KU alums. SAB members who sign up are matched with a Friend who has volunteered to be a Mentor.
  • Priority when applying for one of the Dole Institute’s paid student positions

Membership

All KU students are welcome to join. There is no application process or cost to join. If you believe in the importance of community involvement, want to cultivate your leadership skills, and meet like-minded friends, we’re the group for you! You can join at any time during the semester by attending a meeting and introducing yourself to our SAB student coordinator.

Ready to join or learn more? Email DoleSAB@ku.edu or join one of our next meetings:

  • Monday, March 4, 5:30 p.m.
    • Dole Institute of Politics
  • Tuesday, April 2, 5:30 p.m.
    • Dole Institute of Politics

What We Do

When you join the Student Advisory Board – the more you put in, the more you get out!  There are so many different ways to get involved, learn, and connect with people here at KU, across the country, and even across the world.  Explore here to find out what’s right for you!

Pizza and Politics

Pizza and Politics is a laid-back, students-only program featuring local professionals and free pizza! Pizza and Politics unites KU students with experts in various fields from voting rights to environmental policy to economics, so there’s something for everyone! At these informal events, students get an in-depth look at relevant issues, and they are encouraged to ask questions and interact with the guests. Come late or leave early, just don’t miss out! Join us at one of our next meetings:

  • Monday, March 4, 6:00 p.m.
    • Dole Institute of Politics
  • Tuesday, April 2, 6:00 p.m.
    • Dole Institute of Politics
  • Friday, April 12, 12:00 p.m.
    • Centennial Room in the Kansas Union

Discussion Groups

Some of our most refreshing events are weekly discussion groups at the Dole Institute. Hosted by Dole Fellows, each weekly discussion focuses on a specific topic or issue and features an expert in that field. These events are oriented toward KU students but are also open to the public.

These small discussion groups provide hands-on knowledge and direct interaction with experts. Join us at one of our next discussion groups:

  • Tuesday, Feb. 20, 4:00 p.m.
    • Dole Institute of Politics
  • Tuesday, Feb. 27, 4:00 p.m.
    • Dole Institute of Politics
  • Tuesday, March 19, 4:00 p.m.
    • Dole Institute of Politics

Annual SAB Program 

Discover the intersection of policy and public opinion at the Spring Student Advisory Board Program moderated by SAB Coordinator Allie Haggar featuring a panel of Kansas Speaks Contributor Dr. Alexandra Middlewood, as well as Rep. Christina Haswood and Rep. Nick Hoheisel, two legislative members of the Kansas Future Caucus, representing both Republican and Democrat perspectives. Join us for a discussion on key insights from the 2023 Kansas Speaks public opinion survey, addressing issues such as marijuana legalization, Medicaid expansion, abortion rights, climate change, and more. This event will explore crucial topics affecting young people and the wider community in Kansas, combining data-driven insights from the survey with real-world experiences and legislative perspectives.

Volunteer

We like to put on a good show! SAB members help in the planning and production of all Dole Institute events. Members are expected to staff events by giving a welcome, greeting guests, working audience Q&A sessions, helping with book signings and more! Sign up to volunteer at an upcoming event today!

 


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.