Upcoming Events | Paul Simon Public Policy Institute | SIU

 Renewing Illinois Summit 

The Paul Simon Public Policy Institute at Southern Illinois University Carbondale is preparing for one of our signature programs, the Renewing Illinois Summit, on the SIU campus.

We are developing a terrific program for university students from across Illinois who are interested in public policy.

Summit Dates: October 24th and 25th.

The theme of the Summit will be "Higher Education In Illinois: Preparing For a Tsunami of Change." Provocative speakers, background briefings, and stimulating interactive exercises will help us explore the challenges facing higher education in Illinois. Students who attend the Summit will be able to interact with the speakers and other students from Illinois colleges and universities. Together, we will work to envision and begin to build a new golden age of higher education in the Prairie State.

Former Governor Jim Edgar will deliver the opening remarks on Thursday, October 24. The following morning, Institute Director John Shaw will host a one-on-one discussion with SIU System President Dan Mahony about the challenges facing higher education in Illinois.

If you have any questions, please contact the Institute at paulsimoninstitute@siu.edu.

Please register your students by October 17, 2024.

Register to attend the Renewing Illinois Summit.

Understanding Our New World | Kai Bird

Kai Bird, one of the United States' leading biographers and a Pulitzer Prize recipient, will join the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute on Wednesday, October 30th, at 10 am CT for a discussion on the statesmanship of former President Jimmy Carter.

Bird will discuss with Institute director John Shaw his biography of Carter, “The Outlier: The Unfinished Presidency of Jimmy Carter,” as well as several of his other books.

Bird is the author of seven books, including five biographies. He is the co-author of “American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer” which won the Pulitzer Prize in 2006. The book was the basis for the award-winning film, “Oppenheimer.”

Register for October 30th.

John and Nancy Jackson Lobby Naming Celebration

Join us on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at 1 p.m. as we honor the incredible legacy of John and Nancy Jackson with the dedication of the John and Nancy Jackson Lobby at the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute!

For over 50 years, John and Nancy Jackson have shown unwavering dedication to Southern Illinois University and the Carbondale community. Nancy, a passionate elementary school teacher, led the Book in Every Home campaign at SIU Carbondale, promoting literacy while also volunteering for numerous local causes. John had a distinguished career as a Political Science professor and administrator, serving as Interim Chancellor, Provost, and Dean, and made significant contributions to the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute. In 2002, they were named Carbondale Citizens of the Year. Their impact on education, leadership, and public service continues to inspire.

The public is invited to celebrate their legacy with the naming of the John and Nancy Jackson Lobby, followed by a reception with light refreshments.