THE SPACE TO ENGAGE
The Center for Politics and the People was established to promote constructive political debate and inform citizens concerned with good governance. Together, students and faculty plan year-round events that reflect the rich diversity of political thought. By fostering civic engagement and encouraging constructive debate, we create a space for students and the larger community to engage with public affairs.
OUR PLACE IN POLITICS
Ripon, Wisconsin, is the perfect stage for political engagement. The Republican Party was born here, as was women’s suffrage leader Carrie Chapman Catt. The National Forensics League was founded at Ripon College. Our alumni go on to hold positions in government, shape politics and form public policy at all levels. If you are passionate about public affairs, Ripon is a storied place to be.
Mission Statement
The Center for Politics and the People at Ripon College was created to promote constructive political debate, analyze public policy and foster the engagement of citizens and their government. Inspired by the principles of the American founders and the legacies of our great leaders, The Center will create a forum for dialogue, research, analysis and dissemination of ideas about local, state, national and international issues. Policymakers, academics, experts, candidates and politicians will present and defend their ideas and solutions for the benefit of the country, people and community. Students will learn how to pursue careers in politics and government. The electorate will find scholarly, accessible and relevant research that connects political thought and effective governance.
My interactions with those at events sponsored by the Center have shown me that politics is something that everyone, no matter education or background, can participate in.
Preston Reese-Grimm
Class of 2026
Every event exposed me to different perspectives on a variety of issues in the political sphere. I have grown as a political science student, a leader, and a person.
Angelica Martorello
Class of 2026
I started attending the Center of People and Politics events as a first-year student and now am on the Student Advisory Board. It gives me a place to learn more about issues in politics with those around me who are also interested.
Alivia Roeglin
Class of 2025
Internship Fellowship
The Center for Politics and People offers $2,000 Internship Fellowships to Ripon students with internships in public affairs. The award is intended to help cover costs like missed income, gas money and rental assistance while completing the internship. It is not meant to cover all expenses.
Five fellowships are typically granted each year on a rolling basis depending on available funding.
We invite Ripon students in good standing to apply. To qualify, your internship must align with the mission of the Center. Academic achievement, along with how the internship will contribute to your career goals (see Process), will also be considered.
While your internship does not need to be secured at the time of application, stipend funds will only be disbursed once a signed agreement with your internship site is provided. This agreement must be shared with the Center directors immediately.
With your application, you’ll need to provide a brief essay explaining:
- A description of the internship
- How your internship will help you pursue a career in public affairs
- Any other pertinent information you’d like to share
Contact the Director of the Center for an application. The application and essay must be submitted to the Director of the Center. Once received, a decision will be made within two weeks.
CONTACT AND ADVISORY BOARDS
Center Director
Henrik Schatzinger
Professor of Political Science, Chair of Political Science Department
Email
2024-25 Board Members
Our student board members provide input on the Center’s programming and events.
- Noah Hinkfuss ’26
- Angie Martorello ’26
- Preston Reese-Grimm ’26
- Alivia Roeglin ’25
External Advisory Board Members
- Judge Jon Wilcox ’58
- Bob Welch ’92
- Rick Lewandowski ’75
- Robb Kahl ’94
- Bill MacLeod ’73
upcoming EVENTS
Over the years, the Center has hosted events with elected officials, policymakers, academic experts, high-level campaign operatives, and citizens from across the political spectrum. Many of these events are open to the community.
Book Talk: The Conservative Environmentalist with Author Benji Backer
The Center for Politics and the People is hosting environmental activist Benji Backer to discuss his new book, “The Conservative Environmentalist.” Benji is the founder and executive chairman of the American Conservation Coalition, the largest right-of-center environmental organization in the country. In his book, Benji provides a new strategy to care for our planet through […]
The Global US and the War on Gaza: America, Israel, and the Politics of Religious Dissent
The Center for Politics and the People is bringing Elizabeth Shakman Hurd, Northwestern Professor of Political Science and Professor and Chair of Religious Studies to Ripon College to discuss the intersection of religion and politics. Drawing on a chapter from Hurd’s new book, Heaven Has a Wall: Religion, Borders, and the Global United States, this […]
Nov. 12, 2024: After the Election: Now What?
Watch a recording of the event here.
Oct. 25, 2024: Panel Discussion on the 2024 Election
Sept. 26, 2024: Asylum and the Changing Face of Immigration
Watch a recording of the event here.
Sept. 5, 2024: Pow-litical Comics: From Ripon to the RNC
Watch a recording of the event here.
Apr. 11, 2024: Debate on student free speech
Mar. 21, 2024: “The State of Women’s Health in Wisconsin”
Watch a recording of the event here.
Feb. 15, 2024: “The Devil’s Element: Phosphorus and a World Out of Balance.”
Watch a recording of the event here.
DO MORE YOUR WAY
Become the extraordinary individual you are meant to be at Ripon.