We are all aware that more recent discussions about American democracy have revealed extremely polarized views, and far more attention is being paid to candidates that are running for elected seats in offices.

While this is especially true for career politicians that run for federal and high-level state offices, like Governor, it is also true for less prominent but nonetheless critical state and local offices, like school board member, city council member, higher education Regent, etc.

In this panel, we will explore what motivates regular citizens to put their hat in the ring for elections—especially with many of these positions requiring so much time and no pay. Joining us are three School of Public Affairs faculty members, with no prior political experience, who ran for local positions over the last year. In addition, they will be joined by other panelists familiar with this electoral environment.

This webinar will be recorded for those unable to attend.

Panelists:

Jeff Baker (MPA '97)
Commissioner
Arapahoe County

George Brauchler
President
Advance Colorado Academy

Callie Rennison, PhD
Professor
CU Denver School of Public Affairs
Regent
University of Colorado

Kristen Seidel
Political Director
Emerge Colorado

Danielle Varda, PhD
Associate Professor
CU Denver School of Public Affairs
Member of the Jefferson County Board of Education, District 1

Moderator:

John Ronquillo, PhD
Assistant Professor
CU Denver School of Public Affairs