SE Valley Times

Arizona State University has announced the launch of the ASU Institute of Politics, a nonpartisan initiative aimed at equipping students with the necessary skills and experiences for leadership roles in public service. This initiative is part of the Office of the Executive Vice President and University Provost and will be led by Ambassador Jeff Flake as its founding director.

Flake, a former U.S. senator, congressman, and ambassador to Turkey, brings extensive experience to this role. His recent achievements include playing a significant role in Sweden's accession to NATO, an effort that earned him knighthood from the king of Sweden.

“I am honored to join ASU at this critical time in our nation’s political evolution,” Flake stated. “The ASU Institute of Politics will serve as a bridge between the world-class academics at ASU and real-world public service.”

Flake also emphasized that access to influential figures should not be limited to Ivy League institutions alone. He remarked, “ASU is one of the most forward-looking universities in the world... The ASU Institute of Politics will enrich their education with mentoring, internships and exposure to some of the most consequential political minds in the United States.”

The institute aims for nonpartisan engagement by offering programs accessible to students from all academic backgrounds. These programs include expert speaker events, career mentoring from accomplished public servants, internships with government offices, and civic engagement opportunities.

A notable feature is the Dialogues for Democracy forum co-sponsored by ASU’s Center for Free Speech. The series will host various speakers such as David Axelrod and Mark Cuban. Upcoming guests include pollsters John Anzalone and Tony Fabrizio; President Michael M. Crow; former ACLU President Nadine Strossen; economist Larry H. Summers; former diplomat Susan Rice; NBA champion coach Steve Kerr; and former national security advisor Robert O’Brien.

Nancy Gonzales, executive vice president and university provost, highlighted the potential impact of this initiative: “Our goal is to create a community... where constructive dialogue is encouraged.” She added that it provides students with access to influential networks while encouraging critical thinking about diverse political perspectives.

In fall 2025, the institute plans to introduce its fellows program featuring distinguished public servants on campus for mentorship opportunities.

For more details on programs and events at the ASU Institute of Politics, visit iop.asu.edu.