Just in time for 2024 elections, USC opens a major public policy center in Washington

The new institute will be housed in the USC Capital Campus in the Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, D.C. In a major expansion of its Washington footprint, USC is opening a public policy institute — just in time for the 2024 elections — where students can immerse themselves in learning about the national and political issues that will affect their lives. “More than that, universities have a responsibility to take the incredible work of our faculty, staff and programs and use it for public good.” The opening of the Leonard D. Schaeffer Institute for Public Policy & Government, set for July 1, comes one year after USC opened its Capital Campus in the city’s Dupont Circle neighborhood. The institute’s announcement is being made during the 2024 election year, which Folt said is important for students to have firsthand experience in a place where “great thinkers are working with policymakers to address national issues” and debate them. At a time when science is under attack, the institute will delve into nonpartisan, evidence-based policy issues, Goldman said, while helping forge a new understanding about how government works.