Davenport Institute for Public Engagement and Civic Leadership
The Davenport Institute for Public Engagement and Civic Leadership works with local governments, non-profit organizations, and residents to both promote and support constructive and broad-based civic involvement in decisions that affect people where they live and work.
Special Feature: Resident Engagement During COVID-19
Latest Publication: Local Governments Can Innovate and They Have
Our Mission
To help build stronger communities in California by promoting public participation in local governance.
Our Vision
To be a champion of public engagement as a 21st century leadership skill for local governments and residents to succeed together.
Training
The Davenport Institute offers to help local and regional leaders improve their public engagement skills.
Thought Leadership
We offer a variety of resources to help design, deliver, and promote inclusive, authentic, and effective public engagement.
Convening
Our home at the Pepperdine School of Public Policy gives us a unique platform to bring together partners committed to civic leadership and public participation in local government.
Engaging students
As part of the Pepperdine School of Public Policy, the Davenport Institute is committed to providing graduate students with access to the best practices in local government innovation and engagement. The relationship between citizens and governments is changing fundamentally, and we seek to equip School of Public Policy Students with the skills and tools that will make them effective leaders in the 21st century.
- Find out more about Davenport Institute programming for students
- Find out more about the Pepperdine School of Public Policy
Testimonials
Greater public participation and trust in local government fosters more effective local representative democracy in California. Public engagement is a game changer for the good and the Davenport Institute is leading this change."
City Manager of Santa Monica (retired) Member, Davenport Institute Advisory Council