Harvard Institute of Politics (IOP) was created to serve as a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy and inspire Harvard students into careers in politics and public service, much as President Kennedy was inspired during his days as a student at Harvard. The IOP also brings together the academic world with the world of politics and public affairs. All of this activity occurs on a non-partisan basis with the sole aim of promoting public service.
Following President Kennedy's death in 1963, the Kennedy Library Corporation raised more than $20 million for both the construction of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, and for the creation and endowment of an institute at Harvard for the study of politics and public affairs. More than 30 million people from around the world, including school children, contributed to the fund. In 1966, the Kennedy Library Corporation presented Harvard University with an endowment for the creation of the Institute of Politics.
On January 31, 2011, former Kentucky Secretary of State Trey Grayson became the IOP director with previous interim director John C. Culver assuming the title of director emeritus. The IOP also has a full-time staff, an advisory committee of Harvard students, and an advisory board including Caroline Kennedy, former US Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao, former Senator Chuck Hagel (R-NE), former Senator John Culver (D-IA) and Congressman William Delahunt (D-MA), former White House Chief of Staff Kenneth Duberstein, former congressman Phil Sharp (D-IN), PBS correspondent Gwen Ifill, New York Times executive Rick Berke, and former advisor to President Kennedy Milton Gwirtzman.
Among the programs offered by the IOP include internships, prominent and diverse Forum speakers, the Harvard Political Review, study groups led by visiting and resident Fellows, annual public opinion surveys focused on America's youth, and conferences intended to provide opportunities for interaction with the people who shape politics and public policy. The IOP does not offer formal courses or degree-granting programs; instead, it provides avenues for practical experience and encourages students to examine critically and think creatively about politics and public issues.
In 2003, the IOP launched the National Campaign for Political and Civic Engagement, working collaboratively with other schools and organizations across the country to engage young people. The IOP also conducts research and surveys into the political views of America's young voters. In addition, the Institute offers conferences for new members of Congress and new mayors, and, after each Presidential election since 1972, brings together top campaign officials to analyze the race in the "Campaign for President" series.
The Institute of Politics is housed within Harvard's John F. Kennedy School of Government, and is affiliated with the Kennedy Presidential Library. The three institutions work closely together.
Read more about Harvard Institute Of Politics: Mission, John F. Kennedy Jr. Forum, Harvard Public Opinion Project, Fellows & Study Groups, The Harvard Political Review
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