August 08, 2023
SIU’s Paul Simon Institute to host Illinois political expert Jim Nowlan
CARBONDALE, Ill. – Jim Nowlan, a former member of the Illinois General Assembly, state agency director and retired professor, will join the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute on Aug. 16 for a virtual conversation on his new book, “Politics: The Starter Kit, How to Succeed in Politics and Government.”
Nowlan and John Shaw, institute director, will discuss Nowlan’s new book as well as two of his earlier books, “Illinois Politics” and “Fixing Illinois.”
The virtual discussion via Zoom is at 10 a.m. The online program is free and open to the public, but registration is required. The conversation is part of the institute’s Illinois Authors series of discussions with the writers who bring the Prairie State to life. Visit paulsimoninstitute.org/events to register.
“Jim Nowlan possesses a unique blend of wisdom, practicality, idealism and sheer decency,” Shaw said. “He has had a deeply impressive and varied career. We are eager to explore his practical advice for students who are considering careers in politics.”
Nowlan has more than 50 years’ involvement with Illinois politics that includes more than 600 columns, many about the challenges facing the state. He served four years as a state representative in the Illinois House and was the Republican candidate for lieutenant governor with then-Gov. Richard Ogilvie in 1972. Nowlan’s career also included working as a campaign manager for moderate Republican U.S. Senate and presidential candidates, newspaper publisher and columnist.
Nowlan earned his bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees – all in political science – from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He taught at both the University of Illinois and Knox College.
Attendees are encouraged to submit questions for Nowlan on the registration form or email questions to paulsimoninstitute@siu.edu.
More information, a list of the institute’s upcoming events and past speakers and events are available.