Mission Statement
The Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics is a bipartisan research, teaching and experiential learning institute dedicated to increasing understanding of the political process with special emphasis on political parties, grassroots activity, civility and ethics, and hands-on learning through internships and events.
Ray C. Bliss
Republican National Committee Chair, 1965-1969
In 1986, the University of Akron established the Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics to promote citizen knowledge and participation in the political process, values in which Bliss strongly believed. The Bliss Institute also recognizes Bliss' long association with The University of Akron. Ray Bliss earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University in 1935 as well as an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree in 1968. He served on The University of Akron Board of Trustees for nine-and-a-half years, and was chairman at the time of his death in 1981. See full biography.
Throughout my first year as director, I have had the pleasure of meeting many Bliss Institute alumni in Akron and Columbus. I enjoy hearing your stories and celebrating your accomplishments.
I have developed an annual report to let you know of all the activities undertaken in my inaugural year. As this report reveals, I stepped into a directorship of a thriving, active Institute. I could not have undertaken so much, while also making plans to add a new layer of citizenship-focused initiatives to the Bliss Institute's portfolio, without the enthusiastic support of the faculty, staff, and alumni affiliated with the Bliss Institute.
I hope you will take a few minutes to read the report linked below and help us celebrate our accomplishments.
Contact us for more information:
Ray C Bliss Institute of Applied Politics
The University of Akron
Akron, OH 44325-1914
330-972-5182 - phone
330-972-5479 - fax
bliss@uakron.edu