Mitch Daniels, former governor of Indiana and president emeritus of Purdue University, will visit UW–Madison on Monday, February 16th for a public presentation exploring the state of politics and policymaking, potential solutions for higher education, ways to find common ground amid divisiveness, and more.
Daniels arrives as this year’s speaker for the La Follette School of Public Affairs’ Spring Spotlight. He will sit down for a conversation with La Follette School Director Susan Yackee that takes place at 7 p.m. in the Memorial Union’s Shannon Hall.
Drawing on decades of leadership across government and higher education, he will examine the state of American politics, opportunities for bipartisan cooperation, and the future of public universities.
Known for his pragmatic approach to governance and higher education reform, Daniels has been widely recognized for advancing fiscal responsibility, innovation, and student affordability during his tenure as both governor and university president. His visit offers a unique opportunity for students and community members to engage with a leader who has shaped public policy at the state and national levels.
“Governor Daniels brings a rare combination of experience in public service and academic leadership,” Yackee says. “At a time when our nation faces deep political polarization and pressing challenges in higher education, his insights on governance, collaboration, and problem-solving will offer valuable perspective for students, faculty, and the broader community.”
Daniels has had a distinguished career in public service and higher education leadership, serving as Governor of Indiana from 2005 to 2013 and later as President of Purdue University from 2013 to 2022. His previous roles include Director of the Office of Management and Budget under President George W. Bush and senior advisor to President Ronald Reagan.
This in-person event is open to the public but pre-registration is required. It is part of the La Follette School’s Policymaker in Residence and Paul Offner speaker series.
Daniels’ visit is made possible by Ted and Mary Kellner, the Kohl Initiative, the College of Letters & Science, the Paul Offner Lecture Series, the Center for Research on the Wisconsin Economy, Center for the Study of Liberal Democracy, and the Tommy G. Thompson Center on Public Leadership.
