The Mary Louise Smith Chair in Women and Politics brings nationally renowned political leaders, scholars and activists to Iowa State University to enrich the experiences of students and educate citizens about the role of women in the political process.
Each year, the Women Impacting ISU calendar recognizes twelve current students, faculty and staff who have distinguished themselves through their service and accomplishments at Iowa State University.
Ready to Run® Iowa is a nonpartisan campaign training program designed to recruit and train women in Iowa to run for elective office, prepare for appointive office, or become involved in public life as leaders in their communities.
The Manatt-Phelps Lecture in Political Science, a lecture series through the Department of Political Science, brings to campus prominent practitioners and scholars to address the ISU community on issues of significance to the United States and to Iowa.
Upcoming Events
All events are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted.
2023 Ready to Run Iowa
Feb. 24 (virtual)
9-11:30 a.m.: Getting Involved in Iowa Politics
1-3:30 p.m.: Deciding to Run
March 24 (virtual)
9-11:30 a.m.: Campaign Fundraising
1-3:30 p.m.: Launching Your Campaign
April 21 (in-person at ISU)
9-11:30 a.m.: Communicating Your Campaign Message
1-3:30 p.m.: Traditional and Social Media Best Practices
Registration required for all workshops. The February and March workshops are free. For the April workshops, the registration fee of $25 per workshop includes lunch and refreshments. Fee waived for Iowa State University students.
“50 years of Title IX: Reflections and Lasting Impacts on Women’s Sports”
April 15 from 2-4 p.m.
Ames Public Library (515 Douglas Ave)
A panel of past and present Iowa State women will share their stories of the impact of Title IX on their own participation in sports as athletes and as administrators. The Catt Center is a co-sponsor of this event.