Innovative Approaches for Local Leaders at Upcoming Civility Summit
In a time of mounting economic, social, and political pressures, leaders in municipal government are gearing up for the 2026 National Civility Summit for Local Government, organized by Drake University. The event is brought together by The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center alongside The Ron and Jane Olson Institute for Public Democracy, the Iowa League of Cities, and the Greater Des Moines Partnership.
Scheduled for Wednesday, February 11, the virtual summit titled “Adaptability in a Changing Environment” will run from 1:00 to 4:00 PM CT. Registration is open for elected officials and local government staff, including representatives from cities, school boards, and counties, who are eager to discover effective strategies for sustaining local stability and public trust.
Executive Director Scott Raecker of the Robert D. and Billie Ray Center emphasized, “Civility is so much more than politeness and decency—it is about finding pathways to resolve challenging issues through effective civic action.” Attendees will be equipped with tools to navigate emotionally charged situations with a focus on respectful, solutions-oriented dialogue.
Summit Highlights
Participants will gain valuable insights from seasoned municipal leaders through a keynote address and interactive sessions designed to foster trust in divisive contexts. Featured speakers include:
- Clarence Anthony, CEO & Executive Director of the National League of Cities, will deliver the keynote, “Leading Through Change,” reflecting on the significance of civic leadership in adapting to municipal government challenges.
- Bill Gates, Director of the Mechanics of Democracy Laboratory and Professor of Practice at Arizona State University’s Watts College, will discuss election integrity and maintaining trust in local government.
- Tiffany Tauscheck, President & CEO of the Greater Des Moines Partnership, will focus on the role of public-private partnerships and the importance of civility.
- Mickey Shields, Deputy Director of the Iowa League of Cities, will offer tools for maintaining professionalism during high-conflict community situations.
- Tabitha Choquette, Director of Programs at The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center, will present a civility framework that distinguishes controllable from uncontrollable leadership aspects.
Registration Details: Secure your virtual seat by visiting this link. The summit will be accessible via Zoom, and attendees will receive post-event resources.
For More Information: Visit https://www.drake.edu/institute-for-public-democracy/events/
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