Upcoming Events | Paul Simon Public Policy Institute | SIU

Dr. Nicole Rader to visit SIU

Dr. Nicole Rader, a nationally recognized expert in criminology and criminal justice, will join the Institute on Thursday, April 17, at 6:00 p.m. CT.

She will participate in an evening conversation with Institute Director John Shaw about her research on school safety, crime perception, and the role of gender in the fear of crime. They will also discuss her latest book, Teaching Fear: How We Learn to Fear Crime and Why It Matters.

Dr. Rader is a professor and the Associate Dean for the College of Arts and Sciences at Mississippi State University. She joined the MSU faculty in 2005 after earning her Ph.D. in sociology from Southern Illinois University. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Central Methodist University and a master’s degree in criminology from Drury University.

A reception will be held before the event from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the Old Main Room of the SIU Student Center. Those interested can register here.

Understanding Our New World with Sharon Davies

Sharon Davies, President and CEO of the Charles F. Kettering Foundation, nonprofit research organization focused on advancing democracy and civic engagement, will join the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute for a virtual conversation on Thursday, April 24, at 10 a.m. CT to discuss her organization's critical work during these trying times for democracy.

The conversation is part of the Institute’s “Understanding Our New World” series. The event will be held via Zoom, and those interested can register here.

Pizza and Politics with Lindsey LaPointe

Join the Institute for an engaging conversation with Illinois State Representative Lindsey LaPointe on Monday, May 5 from 12 p.m. - 1 p.m. in the John and Nancy Jackson Lobby of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute (Forestry Building).

Elected to the Illinois House of Representatives in 2019, LaPointe represents the 19th District on Chicago’s Northwest Side. She focuses on issues including criminal justice reform, mental health, and economic security.

Before serving in the legislature, LaPointe worked as a social worker and policy advocate, dedicating her career to improving public safety and community well-being.

Enjoy a slice of local pizza while discussing policy and public service with Representative LaPointe. The conversation is part of the Institute’s “Pizza and Politics” series and is an open opportunity, primarily for students, to engage in a free-flowing discussion. Those interested in attending are asked to register here.