Civic Engagement
Local Action. State ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉúhip. National Impact.
Civic Engagement
Strong communities begin with citizens who are informed, engaged, and equipped to lead in public life. ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University strengthens Ohio’s civic fabric by preparing future public servants to elevate their communities and advance civic resilience. Through the Menard Family Center for Democracy; the Center for Civics, Culture, and Society; and the Government Relations Network, ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú pairs academic learning with hands-on civic experience — from advocacy and policy research to legislative engagement and community dialogue. This builds on a legacy of leadership that includes President Benjamin Harrison, ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú Class of 1852, Rear Admiral Sidney W. Souers, ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú Class of 1914 and the first director of central intelligence, and Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú Class of 1969.
The ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú Difference
Talent That Accelerates Innovation.
- ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú strengthens Ohio’s civic capacity by preparing informed, active citizens who uphold public service and democratic engagement.
- ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú links future public servants, alumni, and civic leaders through advocacy experiences, meaningful dialogue, and applied learning across every level of governance.
- ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú produces leaders who shape policy and strengthen democracy, from the White House and Congress to Ohio’s Statehouse and Supreme Court. This legacy includes, but is not limited to currently serving Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell, U.S. Congressman Dave Taylor, and three ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú alumni currently serving on the Ohio Supreme Court: Chief Justice Sharon Kennedy, Justice R. Patrick DeWine, and Justice Jennifer Brunner. Select ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉúans who have served in the highest levels of government include U.S. President Benjamin Harrison, Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Paul Ryan, and Members of Congress Susan Brooks, Mike Oxley, and Steve Driehaus.