The 2018 Paul Offner Lecture

The Urban Institute, in collaboration with the University of Wisconsin–Madison Robert M. La Follette School of Public Affairs, hosted the 2018 Paul Offner Lecture, featuring Rebecca Blank, chancellor of the University of Wisconsin–Madison, discussing inequality and higher education.

The twentieth-century growth of the college-educated workforce fueled US economic growth, but economic growth has lagged and benefits have become more unequal in recent decades. A college education has become more important for economic success, yet the economic gap between higher- and lower-skilled workers has widened political and social divides. In opening remarks and  in conversation with Urban Institute President Sarah Rosen Wartell, Chancellor Blank will speak about how universities can be more accessible to a diverse population of students and help them acquire a college degree.

Featured Speakers

• Rebecca Blank, Chancellor, University of Wisconsin–Madison
• Sarah Rosen Wartell, President, Urban Institute
• Speaker Biographies 

As a scholar, state legislator, congressional advisor, and educator, the late Paul Offner left a special legacy of applying solid, evidence-driven research to public policy solutions, especially for society’s disadvantaged. The Urban Institute is proud to partner with the Robert M. La Follette School of Public Affairs in hosting this annual lecture series to honor Paul Offner.

Please contact [email protected] with any questions regarding this event. 

Photo by katie wheeler/Flickr