Students First
We will strive every day to serve our students, offering programming and opportunities that are informed by their interests and meet their personal and professional needs.
- About
- Our Mission
Our Mission & Guiding Principles
The mission of the Institute of Politics is to strengthen our democracy by inspiring, empowering and cultivating the next generation of engaged citizens, civic leaders, and public servants.
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Mission
The mission of the Institute of Politics is to strengthen our democracy by inspiring, empowering, and cultivating the next generation of engaged citizens, civic leaders, and public servants.
Since 2013, the IOP has operated as a working lab for citizenship. By hearing from expert speakers across the political spectrum, diving deeper into the issues in weekly seminars, engaging directly with contemporary practitioners, and building relationships across ideological differences, students learn the habits and skills required for democracy and become fluent in spaces of discomfort.
In the field, students serve as interns across policy, government, media, and advocacy organizations learning firsthand how the operations of civic society function.
At a moment when Americans are retreating from one another and losing faith in institutions, the IOP convenes and connects in service of strengthening democracy.
Guiding Principles
Nonpartisan
We will ensure our programming, career advice, and opportunities remain pluralistic and include exposure to diverse perspectives and political viewpoints.
Free Expression
We support the strong tradition of free and open expression at the University of Chicago. All our events and discussions will promote civil discourse and constructive dialogue.
Integrity
We will approach all our duties with honesty and mutual respect for our university colleagues and for our students. Our character will be above reproach.
Stewardship
We will be respectful of the reputation we have inherited and the resources in our care. We will devote our energies to ensuring the proper allocation of those resources toward ends that best accomplish our mission.