The Center for Economic and Civic Learning (CECL) at Ball State, in partnership with the School of Art, is pleased to announce that registration is now open for the 2025 Conference on Civic Studies and Democracy, to be held September 25–27, 2025.
This year’s theme—“Character, Creativity, and Community: The Interplay Between Community, Art, Politics, and Civic Identity”—will guide a dynamic three-day program exploring the ways in which moral formation, artistic expression, and civic life intersect in shaping engaged democratic communities.
We are honored to welcome Michael Greer, President and CEO of ArtsFund, as our keynote speaker. A nationally respected advocate for the arts and cultural policy, Greer will deliver the Fred Meyer Lecture in Cultural Policy and Arts Advocacy on Thursday, September 25. His keynote will highlight the potential for art and community in democratic life and will be followed by a panel discussion and opening reception.
Conference Dates: September 25–27, 2025
- Thursday, September 25: 5:00–8:00 PM – Fred Meyer Lecture in Cultural Policy and Arts Advocacy
- Friday, September 26: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM – Concurrent Sessions & Workshops
- Saturday, September 27: 9:00 AM–1:00 PM – Final Sessions & Community Engagement
Register Here
Call for Proposals: Proposals are now being accepted for sessions that engage this year’s theme and the broader goals of civic renewal through character education, art, and community-based democratic practice.
Key Dates:
- Proposal Submission Deadline: June 15, 2025
- Notification of Acceptance: July 7, 2025
- Conference Dates: September 25–27, 2025
Submit Proposals HERE
Possible Topics Include (but are not limited to):
- The role of art, education, or community in promoting democratic character
- Aesthetic dimensions of political life and the civic power of art
- Integration of civics and character education into schools and communities
- Historical and contemporary examples of art as democratic expression
- Public monuments, architecture, and urban design as sites of civic meaning
- The influence of digital platforms on civic identity and participation
- Cross-disciplinary approaches to civic renewal in divided communities
The conference will include concurrent sessions, interactive workshops, and community-engaged panels. Scholars, educators, artists, students, and civic leaders are invited to attend and participate.
Conference Location: Ball State Student Center in Muncie, Indiana. Lodging and travel information will be posted on the conference website soon.
Registration is now open. Visit our website or contact Dr. David J. Roof at djroof@bsu.edu for more information.
Join us in building a more creative, informed, and engaged democratic society.