As a public-service organization, IGPA strives to create space for public engagement in government. IGPA works in collaboration with various partners to engage the public in education and dialogue. IGPA strives to serve the public by providing regular forums and lectures, training programs, and learning opportunities. For example, IGPA partners with other units within the University of Illinois to produce the Bazzani Lecture, an annual high-profile address and discussion about important policy issues such as higher education and immigration.

IGPA also provides programming for students. The institute partners with the Conference of Women Legislators of the Illinois General Assembly to produce NEWLeadership Illinois, a week-long residential program for college women designed to increase women’s representation in public life, including elected office. To learn more about IGPA’s public engagement initiatives, please explore the program pages: