Four state legislators visited UT Dallas this semester to share with students their insights on running political campaigns in Texas.

The undergraduate course, Campaigns and Elections taught by Dr. Greg Thielemann, was offered through the School of Economic, Political, and Policy Sciences.  

Senator Florence Shapiro

Sen. Florence Shapiro of Plano teaches Dr. Greg Thielemann’s class on Campaigns and Elections during her visit to campus.

During their campus visits, legislators also had the opportunity to tour campus and meet with President David E. Daniel and Vice President for Public Affairs Amanda Rockow.  Guest legislators included:

  • Rep. Rafael Anchia of Dallas.
  • Rep. Eric Johnson of Dallas.
  • Sen. Florence Shapiro of Plano.
  • Rep. Van Taylor of Plano.

Students learned firsthand from these experts about the intricacies of coordinating campaigns, raising funds, and motivating volunteers.  The information shared was especially timely given the uniqueness of this election season because of redistricting.  Primary elections in Texas will take place on May 29 with runoff elections on July 31.

“We were so fortunate to have such a high quality line-up of speakers this term,” remarked Dr. Thielemann.  

“We were so fortunate to have such a high quality line-up of speakers this term. The students appreciate these members giving up their time to visit UT Dallas.”

Dr. Greg Thielemann

“The students appreciate these members giving up their time to visit UT Dallas. These local legislators have created wonderful opportunities for our campus in the Legislature, and we are fortunate to count them as friends,” Thielemann said.

Vice President Rockow also commented, “These visits give us a great opportunity to showcase our campus and our students.  It makes all the difference in the world when we can share in person the vibrancy of this University and of our students. These legislators want to be a part of the success of UT Dallas.”

For more information, please contact Amanda Rockow, Vice President for Public Affairs, at 972-883-2107.

Representative Rafael Anchia and President David E. Daniel

Rep. Rafael Anchia (left) of Dallas meets with UT Dallas President David E. Daniel on his campus tour.

 

Representative Eric Johnson

Rep. Eric Johnson teaches a session of  Dr. Greg Thielemann’s undergraduate Campaigns and Elections class.

 

Representative Van Taylor (right) talking to VP of Public Affair Amanda Rockow

Plano Rep. Van Taylor (right) confers with UT Dallas VP for Public Affairs Amanda Rockow during his visit to campus.