The Chiesman Center for Democracy at the University of South Dakota is pleased to announce its annual Democracy Conference, taking place on Thursday, March 27 from 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at the Freedom Forum in the Al Neuharth building.   This year’s conference will focus on “Confidence in Electi ons,” exploring research and public service projects that aim to improve democratic participation and civic education. The event is free to attend, but registration is required to accommodate attendees for seating, refreshments and a complimentary lunch.   The keynote address will be delivered by Lisa Bryant, Ph.D., a 2024-2026 Andrew Carnegie fellow and professor of political science at California State University-Fresno. Bryant will present her lecture titled “Skepticism, Trust, and Confidence in Elections.”   The conference will also feature an interactive discussion and question hour with state legislators, presentations by faculty and students of Chiesman-supported research and talks from various civic leaders in higher education, the media and community-based organizations.   The Chiesman Center will also share an update on various programming and activities, including state-wide polling efforts with South Dakota News Watch, Kids Voting, National Voter Registration Day panel, and Engage South Dakota, a community conversation effort also in collaboration with SD News Watch. The center will also share plans for future programming and initiatives.   “We are excited to bring together scholars, policymakers and community members to engage in meaningful discussions about the future of our democracy,” said Julia Hellwege, Ph.D., Chiesman Center director.   Hellwege also noted her enthusiasm for and increased efforts to encourage civic participation among young people and collaborations and initiatives for college students across the state.   The Chiesman Center’s work is supported by two undergraduate research assistants: Waverly Patterson and Max Mickelson.   Patterson highlighted the importance of this year’s conference. “I’m excited for this year’s conference, especially to hear from Dr. Bryant about trust and confidence in elections,” Patterson said. “It’s a great opportunity to learn from her research and engage in meaningful discussions with South Dakota legislators about the issues that impact our state and us as students.”   Mickelson also shared his excitement for the conference. “It will be very interesting to hear how the state legislators and Dr. Bryant discuss confidence in elections, given the numerous election-related bills in the legislature this session,” Mickelson said.   View a detailed agenda, flyer for the event and registration link. ...read more read less