Civics Roundtables: People & Policy

Description

A program of the Economic Development Committee

Join the Austin Young Chamber’s Economic Development Committee in a special nonpartisan roundtable event with Central Texas elected officials. This program will call on attendees to sit down with local and state officeholders for meaningful, educational conversation designed to break down barriers, demystify the political process, and provide opportunities to directly engage with elected officials. Whether you're a seasoned political veteran or an interested newbie, this event is for you. Light appetizers, one beverage, and parking are complimentary with registration.

Participants will walk away with a better understanding of: 

• The political process and the role elected officials play within it;
• Who their elected officials are and what responsibilities they have;
• How they can work with their elected representatives to make impactful change; and
• The relationships between the local, state, and federal legislative processes. 

What to Expect:

The evening will consist of a brief panel discussion and structured, small group conversations with one officeholder at each roundtable. You will move tables throughout the evening to speak with the different elected officials.

Panelists (click on names to read full bios):

• Mayor Pro-Tem Natasha Harper-Madison, City of Austin
• Rep. Eddie Rodriguez, Texas House of Representatives, District 51

Moderated by Nathan Ryan, CEO of Blue Sky Partners

Nathan Ryan is a serial entrepreneur, business and community leader. He is the CEO of Austin-based, national consulting firm Blue Sky Partners. He serves as the chair of the board of directors at the LBJ Presidential Library’s Future Forum and on the board of directors at the Austin Monitor. He has been appointed by Austin City Council to the Economic Prosperity Commission and the Urban Transportation Commission. Nathan lives in Austin, Texas, with his wife, Amanda, and dogs, Max and Rory.

Table Hosts (click on names to read full bios):

• Rep. Sheryl Cole, Texas House of Representatives District 46
• Senator Sarah Eckhardt, Texas Senate District 14
• Bruce Elfant, Travis County Tax Assessor-Collector and Voter Registrar
• Councilmember Vanessa Fuentes, Austin City Council District 2
• Councilmember Mackenzie Kelly, Austin City Council District 6
• Councilmember Michelle Ly, Round Rock City Council Place 1

Thank You To Our Host