Guest Speakers

The Philip A. Hart and William G. Milliken Endowed Speaker Series for Integrity in Politics will encourage a more civil approach to politics, by inviting individuals to speak on campus who have demonstrated a commitment to encouraging positive change in American politics and policy-making. This series will assist Central Michigan University in its efforts to prepare students to be future leaders.

The endowment's advisory board seeks keynote speakers whose work embodies the ideals of leaders like Senator Philip A. Hart and Governor William G. Milliken. The board selects individuals who promote the greater good of the communities and people they serve through a spirit of reason, cooperation and inclusiveness.

Although the series is national in focus, special consideration may be given to speakers with ties or expertise in issues of significance to Michigan and the Midwest.

Past Speakers

David Hollister and Ray Tadgerson 

October 20, 2016

David Hollister, who served as Lansing's mayor from 1993 to 2003, and Raymond Tadgerson, a professional engineer and former CEO and president of Capital Consultants, discussed how skilled leadership helped convince General Motors to construct two new Lansing manufacturing facilities during a recession. They shared their experiences and perspectives on how similar coalitions can be forged to tackle pressing community problems.

General Colin Powell 

January 24, 2013

General Colin Powell served as the 65th United States Secretary of State under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2005 and is a retired four-star general in the United States Army. General Powell discussed how to remain focused, take responsibility and work toward improving processes, organizations and people.

Congressman Bart Stupak

September 26, 2011

Congressman Bart Stupak discussed leadership and integrity in politics. Stupak served as U.S. representative from Michigan's First Congressional District from 1993 to 2011. In 2010 he played an important role in passing the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (health care reform act) while also facing death threats and political backlash.

Senator Carl Levin

November 22, 2009

U.S. Senator Carl Levin served as the inaugural speaker for the Philip A. Hart and William G. Milliken Endowed Speaker Series for Integrity in Politics. Former Michigan Governor William G. Milliken and two sons of the late Senator Philip Hart attended the presentation. Levin, who served as a U.S. senator from Michigan from 1979 to 2015, discussed "Keeping an Ethical Course In a Political Storm."