Hobby School of Public Affairs
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Hobby School of Public Affairs

Welcome back to campus and the start of a new academic year

The Hobby School enters the fall semester with strong momentum as construction on our new academic building progresses, marking a significant milestone as we celebrate our 10th year as a school. As election season unfolds, our students will have unique opportunities to engage with the issues shaping our region and state.

The Elizabeth D. Rockwell Center on Ethics and Leadership will bring prominent voices to campus for conversations on democracy, the changing media landscape and civic life, while launching its first community festival in the historic Third Ward neighborhood featuring performances, interactive sessions, vendors and community resources.

The future of Harris County takes center stage Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. as Harris County Judge candidates Letitia Plummer and Orlando Sanchez face off in a televised debate presented by Houston Public Media in partnership with the Hobby School of Public Affairs, Houston Chronicle and N+Univision 45 Houston. Simulcast in English and Spanish, the debate will air live on PBS TV Channel 8, News 88.7 radio, N+Univision 45 Houston’s digital platforms and other streaming channels.

Houston remains a dynamic and influential region to study public policy and public administration. Through programs such as the Civic Houston Internship Program, now celebrating its 30th year, the Next Generation Leadership Academy and initiatives such as the Civic Engagement Boot Camp, our students gain the knowledge, skills and hands-on experience to address real-world challenges and make a difference in their communities.

Our faculty and researchers continue to inform public policy discussions through media appearances, community partnerships and applied research. The Space City Panel reports, election surveys and Richard Murray’s “Letter from Texas” newsletter provide insights into the perspectives of residents and trends shaping our communities and state.

I look forward to welcoming students to our classrooms and engaging with those at the heart of the Hobby School’s mission. Whether you are starting your first semester or continuing your academic journey, I encourage you to take advantage of every opportunity to learn and connect.

 

Man with silver hair in a beige plaid jacket and a red shirtJim Granato, Ph.D.
Dean
Hobby School of Public Affairs
University of Houston