Hosted by the Center for Economic and Civic Learning (CECL) in partnership with the School of Art, the Conference on Civic Studies and Democracy invites proposals for panels, papers, and interactive workshops that engage with civic renewal through artistic expression, educational practice, and democratic participation.
- Theme: Character, Creativity, and Community
- Dates: September 25–27, 2025
- Location: Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana
- Proposal Deadline: July 15, 2025
Keynote and Program Highlights: We are proud to welcome Michael Greer, President and CEO of ArtsFund, as the keynote speaker. Greer will deliver the Fred Meyer Lecture in Cultural Policy and Arts Advocacy on the evening of Thursday, September 25, followed by a community reception and panel discussion.
Conference topics include, but are not limited to:
- The role of art, education, and community in democratic character formation
- Civic engagement and civic education
- Aesthetics, artistic practice, and creativity in public life
- Civic and character education in schools and neighborhoods
- Case studies on the arts as tools of civic expression and social change
- Digital platforms and civic identity
- Interdisciplinary and cross-sector approaches to civic renewal
Schedule at a Glance
Thursday, September 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, September 26 | 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
- Concurrent Sessions and Interactive Workshops
- Location: Ball State University – Student Center
Saturday, September 27 | 9:00 AM–1:00 PM
- Final Panels and Community Engagement Sessions
- Location: Ball State University – Student Center