Making democracy work

A healthy democracy depends on an informed populace and effective governance that earns public trust and gives communities the resources they need to shape decisions. At the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions, this vision advances our mission to create spaces where everyone thrives.

Six principles direct our efforts on strengthening research, education and community partnerships essential to making democracy work. Guided by these values, our four schools — Community Resources and Development, Criminology and Criminal Justice, Public Affairs and Social Work — and more than 30 centers focused on research, executive education and direct service, bring together expertise to address today’s challenges and strengthen public service for the future.

Our commitment to national service reinforces our goal to connect people to their communities and cultivate civic leaders.

Six principles inform our efforts to address the challenges facing democratic systems today while preparing leaders to fortify democracy for generations to come.

Strengthening responsive governments

Democracy is rooted in effective governments and public servants committed to accountability, service and the common good. These Watts College centers help public agencies improve performance through evidence-based policies, better leadership and innovation:

Encouraging civic participation and bolstering election integrity

Public confidence in government enhances participation, which is foundational to a healthy democracy. The following centers connect with citizens, public officials and community partners to encourage trust and engagement:

Developing character-driven leaders

Watts College prepares ethical leaders with the knowledge, skills and commitment to respond to current and future challenges. The following centers and initiatives bolster the mission to train principled public servants:

Managing information and technology

Technology, data and innovation are reshaping how modern democracies govern and deliver public services. These centers explore the intersection of democratic governance and technology:

Building more resilient communities

Effective democratic governments help communities prepare for and mitigate disasters and provide the financial, human and knowledge resources needed to recover. These Watts College centers work to strengthen community resilience and preparedness:

Advancing safety and justice

Citizens’ opportunity to participate in elections and engage with governments increases when justice systems are fair, effective and focused on prevention. These Watts College units work to strengthen public safety and prevent violence:

National service

National service helps students put democratic values into practice. As a home for AmeriCorps initiatives, Watts College connects students, community members and partner organizations with opportunities to address critical needs while promoting a deeper understanding of how to serve others.