IGPA has joined forces with partners from NPR Illinois, Illinois Public Media, Columbia College, the Chicago Sun-Times and the University of Illinois Springfield Center for State Policy and Leadership to collaborate on an event series called “Undebates: A Three-Part Public Discussion Series on Hot Topics in the Presidential Election” that we hope will foster passionate but rational discussion of important issues in Illinois during the 2024 election season. We intend to bring together respected journalists and scholars to engage in thoughtful conversations that will hopefully foster a more informed electorate.
Each event will have two sessions:
Session 1: A small group of attendees will be invited to come an hour in advance of the main panel for small group discussions from both sides of the aisle. Facilitated by the moderator.
Session 2: Main panel filled with an experienced moderator (typically a local journalist), and experts on the topic (scholars, practitioners, journalists).
The three event series will be open to the public. Refreshments will be available free of charge for all attendees. Attendees are welcome to and encouraged to interact with the experts and ask questions.
Dates and topics below:
Driving: Enter the iHotel lot on the facility’s north side off of St. Mary’s Road across from the State Farm Center. Placing 111 St. Mary’s Road into your GPS will direct to the correct lot. Parking is free. Enter the west wing doors under the overhang. You will see signage for the event.
Bus: The iHotel is serviced by three stops via CUMTD. St. Mary’s Road at iHotel, First & St. Mary’s, or First at iHotel. Fares are $1 per ride, or free for those with a university iCard, or free if riding within the UIUC campus iZone.
Parking map at this link: https://www.uis.edu/sites/default/files/2021-01/2020_MasterVisitorParking_Map.pdf. Guests should use lots G or J on either side of the Union (building 13 on the map).
Transit Instructions: https://www.uis.edu/visit/travel-accommodations
“Park 1” outdoor lot at 525 South Wabash (adjacent to Columbia’s campus building, 33 East Ida B. Wells). RATES: 2 hours $8, 6 hours $12, 10 hours $15. 312-922-4128.
Any questions? Contact Alyssa Cooper, Senior Coordinator, Institute of Government & Public Affairs, acoope7@illinois.edu, 217-333-3438.