08 – Launching Cyclone Civics: Teaching Democracy in Action
At a Glance
Time
Two weeks:
Tuesday, Sept. 15 – Sept. 22, 2026
5:30 – 7 p.m. CT
Cost
$40.00
Location
Beran Room, Sixty Forward
(205 S. Walnut Ave.)
Class limit: 72
Course Description
This dynamic short course highlights the vision and impact of the Center for Cyclone Civics. Founded within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the Center champions nonpartisan civic education and cutting-edge research on free speech while tackling critical gaps in civic knowledge and engagement. Led by Co-Directors Kelly Shaw and Karen Kedrowski, participants will build civic literacy, sharpen practical skills, and cultivate the habits essential for meaningful political participation.
Instructors
Karen M. Kedrowski has been the director of the Carrie Chapman Catt Center for Women and Politics and a professor of political science at Iowa State University since 2019 and has served as co-director of Iowa State’s Center for Cyclone Civics since 2025.
Kelly B. Shaw has been a teaching professor at Iowa State University since 2011. He was named Associate Director for Cyclone Civics in 2024 and Co-Director of the Center for Cyclone Civics in 2025. He teaches courses in public policy and public administration, comparative politics, and American and state politics.