A bipartisan research, teaching and experiential learning institute dedicated to increasing understanding of the political process with special emphasis on political parties, grassroots activity, civility and ethics, and hands-on learning through internships and events.
The University of Akron's Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics will sponsor the eighth quadrennial “State of the Parties” conference on American political parties on November 4 – 5, 2021. The purpose of the conference is to assess changes in American political parties resulting from the 2020 presidential campaign and election. The conference will bring together scholars and practitioners for this purpose, and the best papers will be included in the 9th edition of The State of the Parties, scheduled to be published in 2022.
Papers on any aspect of contemporary American political parties are welcome, including political polarization; regional voting patterns; national, state and local party organizations; presidential primaries and campaigns; the role of money and other resources in the 2020 campaigns; and the role of parties and partisanship in the federal, state, and local governments.
Scholars interested in presenting a paper should submit a one-page proposal by March 1, 2021 to the Bliss Institute at bliss@uakron.edu. Please feel free to share this information with interested colleagues and students.
Setting standards, providing resources, and working to create a culture of civility in the Greater Akron community.
Learn more
Alumnus Jason Huff (MA '04), Senior Policy Advisor to the Tennessee House Democratic Causcus, discusses his career path and shares advice for students.
Graduate Student Kevin Cohen shares his internship experience with the Tim Ryan for Congress Campaign.
Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics
The University of Akron
Olin 325
Akron, OH 44325-1914
Office: 330-972-5182
Fax: 330-972-5479
Email: bliss@uakron.edu
