Word: iops
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This idea has been resisted on the grounds that it might cause the IOP to lose its “identity.” But the Institute’s failure to inspire wide scale minority involvement clearly calls for a new strategy. The most recent initiative to establish ties with several black student groups, for example, will not get off the ground if the IOP continues to assert full control over its old “identity.” Fulfilling such a role need not diminish the IOP’s own priorities and programs; it would merely...
...sense of community” that so many students seek out. The executive leadership should draw on the success of the Fellows program, where numerous dinners and endless loitering in the corridors have led to the existence of a quasi-social community. Establishing events such as the IOP poker night and adding a happy hour and common room could supply the social aspect that students are looking...
Besides these sorts of social events, the most important way to draw and keep student interest is to provide real political debate. The problem is not a lack of differing views amongst IOP-goers but rather the lack of a specific forum for expressing them. This can give the Institute the feel of a cosy Democratic club. The success of events that challenge the majority view, such as Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney’s visit to Adam Nagourney’s study group, is a testament to the need for more open political argument...
...this kind of rigorous debate that should be at the very heart of what the IOP does. The Institute should foster an atmosphere of dynamic political discussion, where students’ core beliefs are challenged and assumptions and prejudices are threatened. This is what political engagement means...
...President needs to be willing to open the IOP to a reform of priorities, not just structure. It is important not to disparage every aspect of the IOP. Parts of it are running with great success, but the Institute lacks a diverse community of students regularly engaging in real political debate. Encouraging this, more than a how-to guide on the slippery slog into office, would really inspire students to public service...