U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer will deliver the Spring 2024 Susan Resneck Pierce Lecture in Public Affairs and the Arts on Wednesday, Feb. 21 at 7 p.m.

Throughout his career, Rep. Kilmer has worked toward advancing the regional economy, supporting the middle class, making higher education accessible to all, and advocating for our armed forces and veterans. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee, Interior and Environment Subcommittee, Defense Subcommittee, and the Energy and Water Development Subcommittee. Most notable, perhaps, is his service as the Chair of the Bi-partisan Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress, also known as the "Fix Congress Committee," toward building relationships and interactions across the aisle.

During his lecture, Rep. Kilmer will share how his bill, the Building Civic Bridges Act, echoes his own approach to governance and how all of us can reach across the aisle for the betterment of our communities. This act empowers communities to address divisive issues by giving them the tools and skills they need to overcome these challenges and bring people together.

Tickets: Ticket sales are now closed.

Day of Logistics

• Parking: Visitor parking is available throughout campus. Please consult the campus map for more information. Parking Lot P4 will be closed for the event. However, Parking Lot P13 will be open for event parking starting at 6 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis. Be sure to present your confirmation email or ticket QR code to the parking attendant upon arrival.
• Ticketing: If you plan to attend the event, tickets are required. Please bring a digital or printed copy of your ticket. You cannot use your university ID to enter the event.
• Event Entry: Guests are permitted to bring a single small, clear bag no larger than 14” wide, 14” high, and 6” deep. Alternatively, small clutches, purses, or wallets not exceeding 4.5” by 6.5” are also allowed. Larger bags, backpacks, coolers, and similar items are strictly prohibited. Additionally, no food, drinks, signs, or amplification devices are allowed in the venue.
• Safety: For the safety of all attendees, everyone will be required to go through metal detector wands upon entering Schneebeck Concert Hall.

More about the Susan Resneck Pierce Lecture:
Established in 2002 in honor of President Emerita Susan Resneck Pierce, this lecture series brings intellectuals, writers, and artists of prominence in public affairs and the arts to Puget Sound. Many thanks to the Pierce Lectures in the Arts and Public Affairs Advisory Groups faculty members Lea Fortmann, Lisa Johnson, and Sam Liao for their creative and thoughtful work in selecting engaging speakers to enrich our campus community and the wider Tacoma community.