June 12, 2026
SIU’s Simon Institute director to discuss ‘Ike’ and JFK at Eisenhower Presidential Library
CARBONDALE, Ill. — John Shaw, director of Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s Paul Simon Public Policy Institute, will discuss the presidencies of Dwight D. Eisenhower and John F. Kennedy on Tuesday, June 30, as part of a special program at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum in Abilene, Kansas.
Shaw will speak about the two iconic presidents in the context of his book, “Rising Star, Setting Sun: Dwight D. Eisenhower and John F. Kennedy and the Presidential Transition That Changed America.” The book chronicles the 10 weeks between Kennedy’s election on Nov. 8, 1960, and his inauguration on Jan. 20, 1961, and depicts the end of the Eisenhower era and the beginning of the Kennedy administration.
Shaw will be one of four authors to discuss their books at the Eisenhower library in 2026 as part of a special “Ike’s Book Club” program.
“It will be a great privilege to speak at the Eisenhower library as it was to speak at the Kennedy library several years ago. These are important research institutions for scholars and their museums help all of us better understand American history, which is so important as we prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence," Shaw said.
Shaw is recognized as an expert in presidential transitions and the Eisenhower and Kennedy years. Several years ago, he gave a presentation at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library about his book, “JFK In the Senate: Pathway to the Presidency.” And in January 2025, he discussed presidential transitions in “A Presidential Transition for the Ages,” with the White House Historical Association, a presentation that later aired on C-SPAN 2.
The Eisenhower Library is one of 16 Presidential libraries operated by the National Archives and Records Administration. Presidential libraries promote understanding of the presidency and the American experience. They preserve and provide access to historical materials, support research, and create interactive programs and exhibits that educate and inspire, Shaw said.