The Center for Economic and Civic Learning (CECL), in partnership with the School of Art, invites faculty, educators, artists, scholars, and civic leaders to register for the 2025 Conference on Civic Studies and Democracy, a three-day event exploring the connections between character development, artistic expression, civic identity, and our democracy.
2025 Conference on Civic Studies and Democracy
- Theme: “Character, Creativity, and Community”
- Dates: September 25–27, 2025
- Location: Ball State University
The proposal submission deadline has been extended to July 15, 2025, giving additional time to submit your ideas for panels, papers, and workshops.
Keynote and Program Highlights
We are honored to welcome Michael Greer, President and CEO of ArtsFund, as our keynote speaker. Greer will deliver the Fred Meyer Lecture in Cultural Policy and Arts Advocacy on Thursday evening, September 25, followed by a panel discussion and opening reception.
The program will include concurrent sessions, interactive workshops, and community-engaged panels exploring:
- The role of art, education, or community in democratic character formation
- Civic engagement and civic education
- The role of art, aesthetics, or creativity in public life
- Integrating civic and character education into schools and neighborhoods
- Historical and contemporary case studies of art as democratic expression
- Digital platforms and technology in civic identity
- Cross-disciplinary approaches to civic renewal
Schedule Overview
Thursday, Sept. 25 | 5:00–7:30 PM
- Opening Reception
- Fred Meyer Lecture on Cultural Policy & Arts Advocacy
- Keynote: Michael Greer, Arts and Culture as Community Cohesion
Friday, Sept. 26 | 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
- Concurrent Sessions and Workshops
- Location: Ball State University – Student Center
Saturday, Sept. 27 | 9:00 AM–1:00 PM
Final Panel Sessions and Community Engagement
Location: Ball State University – Student Center
Submit Your Proposal HERE
To Attend Please Register HERE
For questions or additional information, please contact Dr. David J. Roof at djroof@bsu.edu.