The Elizabeth D. Rockwell Center on Ethics and Leadership at the Hobby School of Public Affairs sponsors thought-provoking lectures, conferences and educational events that foster cross-disciplinary dialogue about the ethical dimensions of policy issues and leadership challenges.

The Future of American Democracy Lecture Series presented by the Elizabeth D. Rockwell Center on Ethics and Leadership  

Join the Elizabeth D. Rockwell Center on Ethics and Leadership for a fall lecture series examining the state of democracy and political climate in the U.S. during a presidential election year. The Future of American Democracy lectures will cover how key issues and polarization impact communities in Texas and across the country and what challenges undermine democracy, with prominent speakers committed to reenergizing and strengthening political participation and democratic institutions. The events are free and open to the university and surrounding communities, but spacing is limited. Registration is required.  

America in Crisis and Renewal with George Packer 

American journalist and acclaimed author George Packer starts the series on Sept. 12 at 4 p.m. in the Rockwell Pavilion at the M.D. Anderson Library. Packer will discuss his latest book, "Last Best Hope: America in Crisis and Renewal," which seeks to understand the current moment and offers a path forward for overcoming the country's fractures, injustices and divisions. 

Our America with Julián Castro 

Former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Julián Castro will discuss the state of politics and democracy in America on Oct. 3 at 4 p.m. in the Rockwell Pavilion at the M.D. Anderson Library. Drawing on his experiences as a former presidential candidate, cabinet member in the Obama administration and mayor of San Antonio, he will define his vision for the future of our country. 

The State of American Democracy with Adam Kinzinger  

Former U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger will recount his time in Congress and share his hopeful vision for the country's future on Nov. 13 at 4 p.m. in the Rockwell Pavilion at the M.D. Anderson Library. The former Illinois congressman was one of two Republicans to serve on the House Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the U.S. Capitol. Kinzinger will discuss his feelings of dissent as he stood against his party and detail his perspective on a democracy under siege.