An Understanding of Political Participation

Since 1981, Ball State University has hosted the BOWEN INSTITUTE ON POLITICAL PARTICIPATION.  This non-partisan Institute was established to honor the leadership and personal integrity of Dr. Otis Bowen, former speaker of the Indiana House, Governor of Indiana from 1973-1981, and former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services under President Reagan.  The Institute allows participants the opportunity to deepen their understanding and knowledge of politics and political involvement through interaction with state and national political leaders and members of the media.

Otis R. Bowen, M.D. is Indiana's first governor to serve two consecutive four-year terms and has served his community and his state in numerous capacities.   He began public service in Marshall County when he was elected county coroner.  He then served seven terms in the state House of Representatives, where he was   minority leader and speaker.  In 1985, after his governorship, Otis R. Bowen was confirmed as secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.  He has served on the faculty of the Indiana School of Medicine and is a member of several community and state-wide organizations.

The Bowen Institute on Political Participation is an intensive two-day seminar.  The Institute seeks to sharpen skills and deepen the understanding of politics and political participation.  Each session is tailored to the questions and concerns of the participants who learn first hand about political motivation, governmental communication, campaign techniques, and ethics in public service.  Citizens from all parts of Indiana are nominated by government, business, labor, community, and civic organizations to take part in the institute; enrollment is limited.

The seminar sessions feature nationally prominent political advisers and public officials, as well as Indiana officials and professors from various universities.

Who Should Participate in The Bowen Institute?

• We seek individuals from all walks of life who have displayed an interest in politics and government but as yet have not participated in politics to any significant extent.

• The Bowen Institute is designed to allow participants to interact with some of our state's most important political leaders, media reporters and analysts.

• Participants receive the Bowen Institute Notebook full of useful information on Indiana government and politics and will enjoy breakfasts, luncheons and breaks allowing for more time with other participants and speakers.