College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Center for Cyclone Civics
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About Us

The Center for Cyclone Civics provides nonpartisan opportunities for education and research on civic education and free speech. It is housed in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and overseen by Dean Benjamin Withers.

Leadership

  • Headshot of Benjamin Withers

    Benjamin Withers

    Dean, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

  • Headshot of Karen Kedrowski

    Karen Kedrowski

    Co-director, Center for Cyclone Civics

    Director, Carrie Chapman Catt Center for Women and Politics

    Professor of political science

  • headshot of Kelly Shaw

    Kelly Shaw

    Co-director, Center for Cyclone Civics

    Teaching professor of political science

Steering committee

  • Benjamin Withers
  • Michael Dahlstrom
  • Arne Hallam
  • Carrie Ann Johnson
  • Alex Tuckness
  • Rob Schweers
  • Karen Kedrowski
  • Kelly Shaw

Internship program

The Center for Cyclone Civics offers paid internships to Iowa State University undergraduate students to work on the center’s activities, events, and projects.

Most internships are fall through spring of an academic year, with the possibility of renewal for the next year. Positions are typically filled in late spring for the following academic year. Students must be registered as an Iowa State University undergraduate student for at least one credit hour in the semester of employment to be eligible.

Cyclone Civics internship job description

Neutrality statement

The Center for Cyclone Civics at Iowa State University is a nonpartisan academic initiative committed to developing civic literacy, civic skills, and civic dispositions among students, staff, faculty, and community members. Our work is grounded in the belief that an informed and engaged citizenry is essential to a healthy and functioning democratic society.

The center does not advocate for or against any political party, candidate, or ideological position. Instead, we provide research, educational programming, and public engagement opportunities that encourage critical thinking, open inquiry, constructive dialogue, and respect for diverse viewpoints. Our programs aim to equip individuals with the knowledge and competencies necessary to participate meaningfully in public life, while upholding the principles of free expression, viewpoint neutrality, and intellectual rigor.

In all activities, the Center for Cyclone Civics remains dedicated to fostering a civic culture that values evidence-based reasoning, mutual respect, and the shared pursuit of the public good.