Greater Boston Debate Series
More than ever, state and local governments have a critical role in shaping laws and policies that directly impact communities and residents. This past year, the ability and responsibility of state and local governments to address emergent needs have risen to the forefront. From economic devastation to racial justice movements, state and local governments maintain a unique role in achieving and sustaining progress on a long-term basis. How do we ensure equitable policies and laws for all our residents? Join us to engage in productive and possibly messy dialogues about how to affect change on issues including criminal justice reform, transportation, housing, and education.
The Rappaport Center for Law and Public Policy at Boston College Law School and the Rappaport Institute for Greater Boston at Harvard Kennedy School enrich the Greater Boston communities by galvanizing the region’s scholars, students, policymakers, and thought leaders to engage in dynamic conversations and research on critical public policy issues. Recognizing that communities consist of diverse residents and perspectives, problems and solutions need to be addressed in a multi-dimensional way. The Center and Institute are launching this annual debate series to create a forum for meaningful dialogues.
About the Center
The Rappaport Center for Law and Public Policy at Boston College Law School convenes policy makers and thought leaders to engage in vibrant discussions on critical public policy issues through the Rappaport Distinguished Public Policy Series. The discussions include forums, conferences, and symposia to address societal issues with leaders from government, business, academia, and the nonprofit world.
To inspire future public policy leaders, the Rappaport Center also runs the Rappaport Fellows Program which provides funded summer internships for 12 exceptional law students from Boston College Law School, Boston University School of Law, Harvard University Law School, Northeastern University School of Law, Suffolk University Law School, New England Law | Boston, the University of Massachusetts School of Law, and Western New England University School of Law. These law students are offered opportunities to experience the complexities and rewards of public policy work and public service at the highest levels of state and local government. The program includes coveted summer internships, during which students work with top policy makers participate in experiential learning opportunities and are provided mentorship by the Center’s staff, civic leaders, and respected attorneys.
About the Institute
The Rappaport Institute for Greater Boston strives to improve the governance of Greater Boston by strengthening connections among the region's scholars, students, and civic leaders. A university-wide entity housed at the Harvard Kennedy School, the Institute pursues this mission by promoting emerging leaders, producing new ideas, and stimulating informed discussion. The Institute was founded and funded by the Phyllis and Jerome Lyle Rappaport Foundation which promotes emerging leaders in Greater Boston.
