UGA to host second annual Isakson Symposium

ATHENS — The University of Georgia’s School of Public and International Affairs has announced the second annual Johnny Isakson Symposium on Political Civility, set for Nov. 18 at 1:30 p.m. in Mahler Hall at the Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel.

This year’s symposium will feature a discussion between former U.S. Sens. Heidi Heitkamp, D-North Dakota, and Saxby Chambliss, R-Georgia, moderated by co-host, 20/20 News Magazine and award-winning ABC News correspondent Deborah Roberts.

The event honors the legacy of the late Sen. Isakson, known for his commitment to respectful dialogue and bipartisan collaboration. Isakson’s personal motto, “There are only two kinds of people in the world – friends and future friends,” reflects his belief in the power of civility and goodwill in public service.

“I am very proud that the University of Georgia continues to honor Sen. Isakson’s enduring legacy by hosting this annual symposium focused on bipartisan problem solving and civil discourse,” UGA President Jere W. Morehead said. “These topics are increasingly relevant as our students, the future leaders of our great state, begin to tackle society’s toughest challenges during an era in which reaching across the aisle is more important than ever.”

Heitkamp made history as the first female senator elected from North Dakota, serving from 2013 to 2019. During her time in the Senate, she earned a reputation for working across party lines to achieve real solutions. Heitkamp focused on improving the lives of Indigenous people and working families, combating human trafficking, ensuring affordable health care, and advocating for balanced energy policies that meet climate goals.

Her dedication to rural America continues through her work with the One Country Project, where she serves as chair. Heitkamp is also the director of the Institute of Politics at the University of Chicago and a contributor to CNBC and ABC News.

Chambliss served two terms in the U.S. Senate after four terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. Georgia Trend magazine recognized him as one of its Most Influential Georgians, noting his reputation as an “affable but straight-talking lawmaker.” Chambliss served on several key Senate committees, including the Armed Services Committee and the Agriculture Committee, where he made significant contributions to national security, agriculture and intelligence. As vice chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, he was a leading voice on terrorism and homeland security issues.

“Sens. Heitkamp and Chambliss embody public service at the highest level,” SPIA Dean Matt Auer said. “And they are exemplars of getting things done through openness and good will.”

The Johnny Isakson Symposium on Political Civility is supported by the Johnny Isakson Legacy Fund, which was established by SPIA in 2023 to promote civility and bipartisan problem-solving. The fund supports initiatives such as this annual symposium, as well as scholarships, internships, and research dedicated to fostering civility in public discourse.

To learn more and register, visit https://spia.uga.edu/news-events/signature-events/isakson/.

Special Photo: Paul Efland/UGA