BGSU students lead national poll on America's 250th anniversary through Democracy and Public Policy Network

Led by faculty and powered by students, the Democracy and Public Policy Network is advancing civic research and student success

By Branden Ferguson

Established in 2024, the Democracy and Public Policy Network at Bowling Green State University is quickly gaining national recognition for its research while providing students with hands-on experience in public policy, civic engagement and data analysis.

Led by founding director Robert Alexander, Ph.D., the Network recently reached a major milestone by publishing its first national poll. The project reflects the University's commitment to student success, innovation and advancing the public good.

“From the beginning, we wanted to get our students involved in the process,” Alexander said. “While the Democracy and Public Policy Network aims to have a substantial public impact, it is our students who find themselves on the frontlines of the Network’s work.”

Student leadership drives national research

Political science and economics student Maeve Watercutter is one of the students powering the Democracy and Public Policy Network’s success. She produces videos, manages communications and recently helped lead the development of the Network’s national poll by drafting poll questions.

“I was thrilled with the opportunity, as I had only read poll results in academic journals,” Watercutter said. “To be on the other side of data collection and putting together this poll has allowed me to apply what I’ve learned in the classroom to real-world research.”

Through her work, Watercutter has gained experience in polling, communications, interviewing public officials and translating complex data into accessible insights.

“The Network has been both door-opening and eye-opening for me," Watercutter said. "Whether hosting or producing podcasts, writing poll questions or interviewing political leaders, I’m surprised by what I can accomplish as a BGSU undergrad. Here, I am not just growing professionally. I’m contributing to the public good.”

National poll focuses on America’s 250th anniversary

Supported by a $620,000 U.S. Department of Education grant for K-12 civics education, the Network’s national poll examines public knowledge and attitudes about American history, civics and the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States.

According to Alexander, few national surveys explore how Americans view this milestone or the nation’s founding principles – things he and his team hope to utilize as part of the CIVICS 250 Scholars program.

“Over the next three years, we will work with teacher cohorts to strengthen civics education,” Alexander said. “Data from this recent poll will form part of a digital toolkit for teachers and researchers.”

Turning the data into public impact

With the poll now released, students continue to play a key role in analyzing and communicating the findings. Watercutter recently collaborated with Alexander to write an op-ed based on the results. The article was picked up by RealClear Politics and is now available to the public.

“This is an opportunity to transform complex data into a clear, engaging story for the public," Watercutter said. “This is my chance to gain additional hands-on experience and turn lengthy spreadsheets into an accessible and informative story for the public.”

Alexander emphasized that the ability to communicate research effectively is one of the most valuable skills students can develop.

“In today’s information environment, breaking through the noise is challenging,” Alexander said. “It’s a privilege to contribute to public dialogue and help inform thousands – or even millions – of people. I’m excited to share this experience with our students.”