Fostering excellence in public service

At Washburn Law, we are dedicated to preparing students for impactful careers in public service. Our center stands as a beacon for students, alumni, and professionals, offering a unique blend of practical training, scholarly engagement and opportunities to connect with leaders in law and government. Through our comprehensive programs, we ensure that our students are not only ready to meet the demands of the legal profession but are also equipped to lead and innovate in the public sector.

Building leaders in law and public policy

The Robert J. Dole Center for Law and Government at Washburn Law is a hub for advancing the study and practice of law in the public sector. Our center is dedicated to three core goals: offering skills-based training, presenting dynamic programming, and fostering new scholarly opportunities. Through a diverse range of offerings, we bring together students, faculty, and professionals to collaborate and advance the field of government law. Our frequent events and initiatives create a vibrant community where those passionate about public service can thrive.
A professor meets with a student outside of classroom.

Programs & symposia

Our programs and symposia are at the heart of the Center’s mission to engage and educate. We host a variety of events that benefit students, alumni and the broader legal community. Recent topics have included pressing issues such as virtual lawyering, the reality of the American Dream and the future of labor and employment law. These events not only provide cutting-edge knowledge but also foster critical discussions that shape the future of law and government.

The Center’s most recent symposium, “AI’s Constitutional Moment: Rights, Federalism and Separation of Powers,” explored the intersections of artificial intelligence with constitutional rights and government power, featuring keynote speaker Michele E. Gilman and panels on individual constitutional rights and national and state power. 

Focused training for tomorrow's leaders

Washburn Law's Law and Government program
we are committed to supporting students passionate about law and government. Our Law & Government program offers a specialized curriculum, including a certificate in law and government, tailored externships and active student organizations such as the American Constitution Society and the Federal Bar Association. Our location in Topeka, the state capital, provides unparalleled access to legislative offices, state agencies and the Kansas Supreme Court, ensuring rich, hands-on learning experiences. This proximity allows students to engage directly with the legislative and judicial processes, fostering a deep understanding and practical readiness for careers in public service. Whether through coursework, externships or networking opportunities, we ensure our students are well-prepared to make significant contributions to the field of law and government.
Two students work together at table in student commons.

Experience the judiciary up close

Court visits to Washburn Law

Washburn Law is privileged to host visits from the Kansas Court of Appeals and the United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. These visits offer our students a unique opportunity to observe real oral arguments and gain insights into the judicial process. Additionally, the Kansas Supreme Court’s inaugural hearing in our new building marked a significant milestone, providing students with firsthand experience of high-level court proceedings. These interactions are invaluable for students, offering a direct connection to the workings of the judiciary and enhancing their practical understanding of the law.

Center director David Rubenstein

David Rubenstein

Professor of Law