welcome to
democracy matters: building social capital through public dialogue.

In 1973, in response to demands that the University of Nebraska at Omaha be more responsive to the needs of an increasingly diverse and dynamic community, a commission of civic leaders created the College of Public Affairs and Community Service (CPACS). Composed of a diverse array of academic, research, and outreach programs, CPACS has a rich history of engaging students, faculty, staff, and the Omaha community in ongoing dialogues about critical issues facing contemporary society. Since its inception, the college’s values have embraced the highest ideals of public service:

• Awareness of, respect for, responsiveness to, and a reflection of the needs and contributions of a diverse populace
• Open and respectful communication
• Responsiveness to the changing challenges of contemporary living in a democratic society
• Positive contributions to the public service and the broad spectrum of academic programs
• Collaboration with internal and external constituencies
• Meaningful engagement in local, statewide, and professional communities
• Nationally recognized programs, faculty and staff
• Transparency in all of the college's administrative, academic, and community interactions

In the fall of 2008, CPACS celebrated its 35th anniversary as a college. Simultaneously, it relocated all of its Omaha based academic programs into a single facility. In celebration of these two major milestones, CPACS launched Democracy Matters: Building Social Capital Through Public Dialogue.

Last updated 9/4/2009 by mkiper@unomaha.edu.