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Public Policy Events

The Office of Public Policy Events (OPPE) at the University of Central Florida was established in accordance with Florida Statute s. 1001.93, which mandates that each state university within the State University System maintain an office dedicated to fostering open dialogue on public policy issues. The OPPE is designed to promote intellectual diversity and civic engagement through events that explore a wide range of contested public policy topics from multiple, divergent, and opposing perspectives.

At UCF, the Board of Trustees has assigned the responsibilities of the OPPE to the Office of Civil Discourse & Engagement (CDE), led by Haley Winston, who also serves as the Director of Public Policy Events. The OPPE reports directly to the Office of General Counsel and is committed to organizing at least four public policy events each academic year—two in the fall and two in the spring. These events include debates and group forums that feature speakers from within and outside the university community, representing widely held and opposing viewpoints on issues such as climate change, immigration, artificial intelligence, and more.

All OPPE events are open to students, faculty, staff, and the general public, unless attendance restrictions are necessary to meet a compelling governmental interest. The office maintains a searchable, publicly accessible calendar of events on its website and in the UCF library system, detailing event titles, speaker affiliations, and sponsoring entities. Additionally, video recordings of each event are posted online within 10 business days and remain accessible for at least five years. These recordings can be found below.

For questions, please contact Civil Discourse and Engagement | Office of Public Policy Events: cde@ucf.edu.

Upcoming Event

Public Policy Perspectives on Felon Rights

Public Policy Perspectives on Felon Rights is a UCF Office of Public Policy Events group forum that examines how legislation and public policy shape the rights of individuals with felony convictions. The discussion brings together panelists with diverse perspectives to explore sentencing policy, rights restoration, reentry, and related ethical considerations, including how laws are implemented within correctional systems. Open to UCF students, faculty, staff, and the general public, the forum is designed to foster informed, balanced dialogue on a widely debated public policy issue.  

Date, Time, and Location

Previous Events

Tuesday, November 4th at 11 AM in the Student Union, Key West Ballroom

Beyond Earth: Our Role in Space Exploration, Policy, and the Public Good

Fall 2025 PPE Forum

Beyond Earth: Our Role in Space Exploration, Policy, and the Public Good brought together experts to explore how humanity’s next frontier in space can be guided by ethics, law, and collaboration for the benefit of all. Moderated by Dr. Julie Brisset of the Florida Space Institute, the panel featured leaders in space law, commercialization, and hospitality who discussed how rapidly expanding private and international activity in space raises urgent questions about governance, equity, sustainability, and accountability. Panelists considered how economic growth beyond Earth might rival that on the planet within decades, highlighting the need for shared legal frameworks like the Artemis Accords to ensure cooperation and prevent conflict. They emphasized that space must remain accessible and inclusive, with universities like UCF playing a vital role in raising awareness, preparing future leaders, and driving innovation. Concluding on an optimistic note, the speakers envisioned a future where scientific curiosity, responsible policy, and cultural evolution allow humanity not only to survive but to thrive beyond Earth.

Special Guests:

  • Moderated by Dr. Julie Brisset– Interim Director, Florida Space Institute
  • Dr. Greg Autry– Associate Provost for Space Commercialization and Strategy, University of Central Florida
  • Dr. Philip Metzger– Director, Stephen W. Hawking Center for Microgravity Research and Education, Florida Space Institute
  • Michelle L.D. Hanlon, J.D.– Executive Director, Center for Air and Space Law, The University of Mississippi School of Law
  • Melanie McComb, J.D.– Assistant State Attorney, Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office
  • Dr. Kerri Donaldson Hanna– Associate Professor Department of Physics, University of Central Florida

View the full recording of this event on Youtube.

Wednesday, September 17th at 12 PM Live Oak Ballroom

Constitution Day: To Ratify or Not to Ratify? Revisiting the U.S. Constitution Debate UCF Main Campus

Fall 2025 PPE Forum

Constitution Day: To Ratify or Not to Ratify? Revisiting the U.S. Constitution Debate brought together scholars and practitioners to reexamine the foundational arguments surrounding the adoption of the U.S. Constitution and its enduring impact on American democracy. Moderated by Dr. Steve Masyada of the Lou Frey Institute, the panel explored the ideological tensions between Federalists and Anti-Federalists, the evolution of constitutional interpretation, and the modern relevance of those early debates. Panelists offered perspectives spanning law, history, media, and public service, reflecting on how the Constitution continues to shape contemporary questions of power, representation, and civic responsibility. The discussion highlighted the Constitution not as a static document, but as a living framework demanding ongoing public engagement and thoughtful critique.

Special guests:

  • Moderated by Steve Masyada – COS Faculty Fellow for Assessment Director, Florida Joint Center for Citizenship and The Lou Frey Institute
  • Jeffrey Schwartz –Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Constitutional Law and Criminal Procedure, Cooley Law School
  • John Sacher – Professor, UCF Department of History
  • David Head – Lecturer, UCF Department of History
  • Christopher Heath – Adjunct Professor of Media Law, UCF
  • Emily Pontiff – Business Development Analyst, Lockheed Martin

View the full recording of this event on Youtube.

Friday, April 18th at 12 PM Student Union, Key West Ballroom

UCF Home Front: Navigating Florida’s Housing Crisis and the Future of Our Communities

Spring 2025 PPE Forum

A diverse panel of experts, practitioners, and community members came together to explore the complex challenges behind housing affordability and stability. The discussion highlighted how policy decisions, economic pressures, and environmental factors intersect to shape access to housing. Participants emphasized the need for market and policy reforms, greater tenant protections, and stronger support systems for vulnerable populations. Personal stories underscored the human impact of housing insecurity, while speakers called for collaborative, long-term solutions that promote sustainable, inclusive, and equitable communities.

Special guests:

  • Moderated by Dr. Stacey Maloret, UCF
  • Senator Jeff Brandes – Former Florida State Senator
  • Dr. Fernando Rivera – Professor of Sociology and Director of the Puerto Rico Research Hub, UCF
  • Pedro Maler – Orlando-based real-estate attorney
  • Jax Rogero – Administrative Assistant II, UCF
  • Mike Kepner– Director of the Office of Military and Veteran Student Success, UCF

View the full recording of this event on Youtube.

Friday, March 28 at 12 PM on the UCF Downtown Campus, Dr. Phillips Academic Commons 161

Should We End Birthright Citizenship in the USA?

Spring 2025 PPE Forum

This discussion explored the complex legal, ethical, and societal dimensions of birthright citizenship in the United States. Panelists examined how the 14th Amendment has historically defined national belonging and the implications of recent efforts to reinterpret or limit it. The conversation highlighted differing legal philosophies, from strict originalism to evolving interpretations of constitutional intent, and how these views shape contemporary debates about immigration, identity, and equality. Beyond legalities, the panel emphasized the human and cultural impact of potential changes—underscoring how citizenship policies influence notions of inclusion, opportunity, and what it means to belong in a diverse and democratic society.

Special guests:

  • Moderated by Steve Mort, WUCF NewsNight
  • Patricia Donahan – Attorney, Office of Student Legal Services, UCF
  • Denise Fernandez – Immigration attorney and UCF alumna

View the full recording of this event on Youtube.

Thursday, November 21st at 12 PM Student Union, Cape Florida Ballroom

The Role of Immigration in Florida’s Economy and Society

Fall 2024 PPE Forum

This discussion brought together academic, legal, and community perspectives to explore how immigration shapes economic and social life. The panel examined the interconnected roles of immigrant labor, legal frameworks, and nonprofit support systems in sustaining local economies and communities. Speakers emphasized that immigration is not only an economic issue but also one of human experience, touching on workers’ rights, access to education, and community integration. They highlighted the importance of collaboration among policymakers, educators, and community organizations to ensure fair treatment, equitable opportunities, and cultural inclusion for all residents.

Special guests:

  • Moderated by Dr. Haley Winston – Director of Civil Discourse and Engagement, UCF
  • Dr. Irene Pons – Faculty member in the Department of Legal Studies, UCF
  • Rene Gómez – Representative from the Farmworker Association of Florida
  • Dr. Maritza Concha – Lecturer, School of Public Administration, UCF

View the full recording of this event on Youtube.

Friday, September 13th at 1 PM Student Union, Key West Ballroom

Florida Constitutional Amendments Process: Focus on Amendment 3 Marijuana Legalization Initiative

Fall 2024 PPE Forum

The event is a public forum hosted at the University of Central Florida discussing Florida’s Amendment 3, which proposes the legalization of recreational marijuana for adults. Panelists from advocacy, veteran, and educational backgrounds examine the constitutional amendment process, the social, economic, and public health impacts of legalization, and its implications for racial justice, veterans’ health, and youth voter engagement. They emphasize the importance of civic participation, education, and community advocacy in shaping state laws, noting how misinformation and voter apathy—especially among young and marginalized populations—affect reform efforts. The event concludes with a call to action for attendees to stay informed, mobilize others to vote, and recognize their collective power in influencing Florida’s future policies.

Special guests:

  • Moderated by D’Bria Bradhsaw, Esq. – Florida State Coordinator, Campus Vote Project
  • Geveryl Robinson – Assistant Professor of Instruction, USF
  • Justin Jones – Field Manager, Equal Ground
  • Wayne Fogel – Veteran advocate

View the full recording of this event on Youtube.

Wednesday, April 17th at 1:30 PM in the Student Union, Cape Florida Ballroom

AI Transformations: Navigating the Future of Work and Career Pathways

Spring 2024 PPE Forum

The event presents a panel discussion on how artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of work, skills, and career development. Speakers explore the transformative potential of AI across industries, emphasizing both opportunities—like innovation, efficiency, and new job creation—and challenges such as displacement, ethical considerations, and inequitable access to technology. The conversation highlights the need for lifelong learning, adaptability, and interdisciplinary collaboration to remain competitive in an AI-driven economy. Panelists also stress the importance of educational reform and public-private partnerships in preparing future workers, ensuring that technological progress supports inclusivity, creativity, and meaningful human contribution in the evolving labor landscape.

Special guests:

  • Moderated by Steve Mort, WUCF NewsNight
  • Dr. Stephen Kuebler – Professor of Chemistry and Optics, UCF
  • Louis A. Mitchell III – VP Full Stack Engineer, BNY Mellon
  • Dr. Amanda Pacheco – Instructional Specialist, UCF
  • Melissa Stires – Founding Partner and Chief Global Growth Officer, Mia (Mission Impact Academy)

View the full recording of this event on Youtube.

Thursday, March 28th at 1:30 PM in the Student Union, Key West

Filtered Realities: Exploring Social Media Censorship, Privacy, and Algorithm Bias

Spring 2024 PPE Forum

This panel discussion examines the complex relationship between social media, education, and digital governance. Moderated by Dr. Haley Winston, the event brings together experts from technology, media, and business to explore issues such as online censorship, youth privacy legislation, algorithmic bias, and data transparency. Panelists debate the balance between protecting minors and upholding First Amendment rights, the role of parental responsibility in digital safety, and the implications of biased algorithms for underrepresented groups. They emphasize the importance of media literacy, ethical technology development, and collaboration among educators, policymakers, and industry leaders to foster a more equitable and informed digital society.

Special guests:

  • Moderated by Dr. Haley Winston – Director of Civil Discourse and Engagement, UCF
  • Dr. Laine Powell – Founder and Executive Director of Collegiate Pathways, Inc. and Vice President of Ace Applications LLC.
  • Dr. Kimberly Voss – Tenured Professor, UCF Nicholson School for Communication and Media
  • Dr. Amanda Pacheco – Instructional Specialist, UCF
  • Ms. Trish Murphy – Founder of Marketing Smarty Pants and State Board Chair for the Florida Association of Veteran Owned Businesses.

View the full recording of this event on Youtube.

Wednesday, November 15, 2023 at 6 PM in the Student Union, Pegasus Ballroom

A.I. The Great Debate: Who is in Control?

Fall 2023 PPE Forum

This panel discussion explores the ethical, political, and social dimensions of artificial intelligence. Moderated by Dr. Edwanna Andrews, the panelists represent diverse disciplines—philosophy, political science, art, and cybersecurity—and discuss how AI reshapes power dynamics, human agency, creativity, and governance. The conversation addresses concerns about data control, algorithmic accountability, and the moral responsibilities of developers and users alike. While opinions vary, the discussion collectively emphasizes the urgent need for transparency, regulation, and interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure AI development aligns with human values and democratic principles.

Special guests:

  • Moderated by Dr. Edwanna Andrews – Assistant Vice President, UCF Ginsburg Center for Inclusion and Community Engagement
  • Dr. Houman Sadri – Associate Professor of Political Science and Director of the Diplomacy Program, UCF.
  • Dr. Sandra Neel Smith – Associate Lecturer in the Department of Philosophy, UCF
  • Dr. Keri Watson – Associate Professor of Art History, UCF
  • Mr. Rashaad Bajwa – CEO, Integris

View the full recording of this event on Youtube.

Tuesday, September 26, 2023 6 PM in the Student Union, Pegasus Ballroom

The Balance Between Free Speech and Hate Speech

Fall 2023 PPE Forum

This panel discussion examines the complex tension between protecting free expression and addressing harmful or discriminatory speech. The event gathers experts from sociology, law, communication, and cultural studies to discuss how free speech operates in public spaces, classrooms, and online environments. The conversation highlights the difficulty of defining hate speech within constitutional boundaries, the social impacts of language, and the ethical responsibilities tied to expression. Overall, the panel emphasizes the importance of open dialogue, media literacy, and empathy as tools to preserve free speech while mitigating its potential to perpetuate harm and division.

Special guests:

  • Moderated by Justin Andrade – Director of Civil Discourse and Engagement, UCF (former)
  • Dr. Jonathan Cox – Assistant Professor of Sociology, UCF
  • Dr. Kimberly Voss – Professor in the Nicholson School of Communication and Media, UCF
  • Dr. Barry Mauer – Associate Professor of English, UCF
  • Ms. Laurie Beck – Attorney and civil rights advocate

View the full recording of this event on Youtube.