News Archives - 2008

Augsburg alumni who shaped Minnesota politics

On September 26, alumni Martin Sabo '59 and Jim Pederson '56 will lead a conversation among state legislators and others who played a critical role in reforming and transforming Minnesota's political and governmental landscape during the 1970s. Sabo and Pederson will be joined by Lyall Schwarzkopf, former Republican state legislator and former chief of staff to Governor Arne Carlson, as well as former Democratic state legislators Ray Faricy and Bill Kelly. The panel will be moderated by Gene LaHammer, former Associated Press reporter.

The panel will discuss Minnesota legislative changes from 1971 to 1978 instituted in part by Governors Wendell Anderson and Rudy Perpich. Discussion will also focus on local and national events and how Republican legislators in the 1960s influenced the changes that would take place in Minnesota in the 70s.

This colloquium is the first of a series of events sponsored by Augsburg's Sabo Center for Citizenship and Learning. The Sabo Center, led by sociology and urban studies professor Garry W. Hesser, seeks to encourage student civic engagement and leadership through instruction in the democratic process.

In addition to highlighting the contributions of Augsburg alumni to the state and the nation, Hesser hopes the series will encourage students to pursue careers in public service.

The Sabo Center for Citizenship and Learning Colloquium

"The Transformation of Minnesota Politics in the 1970's: People, Policies, and Progressivism"

2 p.m.

Hoversten Chapel, Foss Center