Alisha C. Holland, Associate Professor of Government at Harvard University, studies the comparative political economy of development with a focus on Latin America. She will speak on "Inhibitory Institutions: The Bureaucratic Politics of Public Goods Quality” in a talk hosted in the Politics department, jointly sponsored with the Karsh Institute of Democracy LEAD working group.

Dean Solomon told students in a Democracy and Public Service course to be open to all methods of influencing their communities. “There is never just one bucket to draw from. For me, it’s important that action is aligned with my values.” He joined Melody Barnes of the UVA Karsh Institute of Democracy in teaching the course, a core requirement for UVA’s Public Service Pathways program.

In part 2 of our coverage of Batten School events that were part of the Democracy 360 Summit on Grounds this month, faculty experts engaged in panel discussions on Congress, economics and climate policy. 

In part 1 of our coverage of Batten School events that were part of the Democracy 360 Summit on Grounds this month, two-time world champion debater Bo Seo discussed the topic of his latest book, "How to Disagree Better."

In Episode 2 of "Grounds to Listen," Dean Solomon engages two-time world debating champion Bo Seo on how to have good arguments. 

At this week's Batten Hour, former Rep. Bob Inglis (R-SC) reflected on the dynamic politics of climate change, and the less often discussed intersection of conservative principles and environmental stewardship.

In a significant expansion in 2026, the Batten school will occupy more than 17,000 square feet of the new Karsh Institute for Democracy building with faculty offices, research centers and other operations, while retaining its home base at Garrett Hall on Central Grounds. 

"You can't pour from an empty cup." This is true for us all. For individuals working in healthcare, education, law enforcement, and many other fields, it can feel like the cup is broken. Brian N. Williams, Associate Professor of Public Policy in the Batten School, and PEGLLLLab Research Assistants Chloe Alpert, Zach Harris, and Scott Rykala will co-moderate a panel and discussion with professionals from these fields.

Craig Volden is a professor of public policy and politics at the University of Virginia, with appointments in the Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy and the Department of Politics. He studies the politics of public policy, with a focus on what policy choices arise within legislative institutions and within American federalism. He is founder and co-director of the Center for Effective Lawmaking.