The Institute and the Svoboda Center are the focal point for public affairs, community engagement, and citizenship preparedness on the St. Olaf campus.
The Institute
Established at St. Olaf College in 2014, the Institute encourages inquiry and debate on important political and social issues. By exploring diverse ideas about politics, markets, and society, The Institute aims to challenge presuppositions, question easy answers, and foster constructive dialogue among those with differing values and contending points of view.
The Svoboda Center
The Svoboda Center, established in 2025, aims to foster the College’s civic leadership and responsible community engagement with the local community through many opportunities such as civically engaged courses, internships, volunteering, and research opportunities.
Featured News
IFC to host fall speaker series on strengthening democracy
Institute for Freedom and Community launches new Svoboda Center for Civic Engagement
The Legacy of Legendary Visitors
St. Olaf to host national science communication leaders for conference on campus
Institute to host spring speaker series on democracy and dialogue
St. Olaf recognized as a 2024 Most Engaged Campus for college student voting
Secretary of State Simon visits St. Olaf to present award for top student voting rate
