News and Events
Institute of American Civics
Are Our Differences of Political Opinion Still Making Us Stronger?
OCT 24, 2022 • 6:00pm
STUDENT UNION BALLROOM
The Institute of American Civics has a unique opportunity to lead the UT Knoxville campus and the State of Tennessee in combating political polarization and encouraging civil discourse and civic engagement.
As a part of that effort, we are pleased to welcome former House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) and former U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND) to campus for a conversation about how our institutions, and our communities, can navigate passionate disagreements. Ryan and Heitkamp will discuss the challenges they see in America’s civic culture and political systems and the ways they think Americans can bridge divides.
Knoxville’s Hallerin Hill, host of Anything is Possible, will serve as moderator.
Paul Ryan was the 54th Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, in office from October 2015 to January 2019. Ryan represented Wisconsin’s First District for two decades, during his tenure he served as chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee and chairman of the House Budget Committee.
Heidi Heitkamp served as the first female senator elected from North Dakota, serving as senator from 2013 to 2019. Heitkamp previously served as North Dakota’s Attorney General and Tax Commissioner.
Location and Parking
The event will be held on Monday, October 24 from 6-7pm in the Student Union Pilot Ballroom (272A) at the University of Tennessee. Guests may park in the Vol Hall Garage on White Avenue at no charge by requesting a parking voucher from Baker Center staff at the event.
