Upcoming Event
250 Years of American Democracy: Reflecting on the Past, Shaping the Future
- Date:
- Time: 3 PM
- Location: Reitz Union Rion Ballroom
As the United States commemorates 250 years of democracy, this panel will explore the nation's ongoing experiment in self-government and the principles that have shaped its development. From the founding era to the present day, American democracy has evolved through periods of progress, challenge, debate, and reform. This discussion will examine the historical milestones, civic movements, institutions, and public policies that have influenced the nation's democratic journey.
Join expert panelists Gary S. Lawson, J.D., Teresa Cornacchione, Ph.D., and Adam Lebovitz, Ph.D., as well as moderator Chuck Clemons for a 60-minute conversation, followed by refreshments, giving the audience time to personally interact with the panelists. Additionally, the Office of Campus Engagement will be hosting The 250th Bash activities to celebrate the U.S.A.’s 250th Anniversary.
The panel conversation will be recorded and posted to the Office of Public Policy Events website.
This event is hosted by the Office of Public Policy Events and sponsored by the Bob Graham Center for Public Service, the Hamilton School for Classical and Civic Education, the Levin College of Law, and the Office of Campus Engagement.
Upcoming Event
2026 Primary Election Candidate Forum
- Date:
- Time: 1:30pm EDT
- Location: Pugh Hall Ocora
Meet the candidates before the August Primary at this free, nonpartisan forum featuring races for County Commission, School Board, Gainesville Mayor and more — plus a post-event reception and candidate meet-and-greet.
Join the League of Women Voters of Alachua County and the Bob Graham Center for Public Service for a nonpartisan Primary Election Candidate Forum featuring local candidates appearing on the 2026 primary ballot.
Candidates for County Commission, City Commission, School Board, Gainesville Mayor, and more have been invited.
Candidates will respond to questions developed by the League, giving voters an opportunity to learn more about their priorities, perspectives and plans for office.
Attendees can also meet candidates following the forum at a reception and candidate tabling. This event is free and open to the public. It will be streamed live via YouTube.
Additional partners include the UF Office of Public Policy Events, the Delta Sigma Theta, Gainesville Alumnae Chapter, and Zeta Phi Beta, Gainesville Alumnae Chapter.
Contact: graham-center@ufl.edu