Character, Aesthetics, and Community

Ball State University | September 25–27, 2025

About the Conference
The Center for Economic and Civic Learning (CECL) at Ball State University presents the 2025 Conference on Civic Studies and Democracy, an event exploring the intersection of character education, artistic expression, and civic identity. Hosted in partnership with the School of Art, this conference connects educators, scholars, artists, and civic leaders committed to civic renewal through creativity and community engagement.

Schedule Overview
Thursday, September 25 | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Opening Reception
• Fred Meyer Lecture in Cultural Policy and Arts Advocacy
Keynote: Michael Greer, President & CEO, ArtsFund

Friday, September 26 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Concurrent sessions and workshops on topics including civic education, character development, and creativity in democratic life.

Saturday, September 27 | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• Final panels and community dialogues focused on actionable strategies for civic engagement.

Call for Proposals
Proposals are invited from disciplines such as political science, education, philosophy, sociology, and the arts. Submissions should explore intersections of character, community, and creativity in civic life.

• Submission Deadline: May 28, 2025
• Format: Lecture, workshop, panel, or interactive session (20–90 minutes)
• Details: Title, presenters, session description, A/V needs, duration

Suggested Topics Include:
– Civic education and community engagement
– Aesthetic dimensions of democratic life
– Public art, monuments, and civic memory
– Digital platforms and civic identity
– Education institutions and moral formation
– Design of public space and civic discourse