The Dole Institute of Politics opened in 2003 as a bipartisan forum dedicated to public service – furthering the legacies of Senator Bob Dole and Senator Elizabeth Dole. Inspired by these two giants of American leadership, we are nationally recognized as a one-of-a-kind combination of political forum, research archive and museum.
For 18 years, we’ve displayed an amazing track record of supporting students, offering leadership opportunities through a Student Advisory Board that engages in community outreach, civic engagement and organizing efforts. These students connect with top-level leaders, public servants, political professionals, journalists, historians and more. We provide scholarships annually for civically minded students and create unique educational opportunities in history, policy, legislative research and American political development through our archives.
The end of 2021 marked the beginning of a new era for the Dole Institute. Sadly, in December, we said goodbye to Senator Bob Dole at his passing. We simultaneously welcomed new leadership as Audrey Coleman became Institute Director.
Senator Dole called himself “the most optimistic man in America.” We, too, believe that for the Institute, the best is yet to come. With your support in this new era, we are committed to promoting political and civic participation and bipartisanship among KU students in fresh and innovative ways.
With your support, efforts like these can continue to grow.
