[2] The institute sponsors the Dole Lecture, which is given in April and features a prominent national figure addressing some aspect of contemporary politics or policy.

Steve McAllister, the former dean of the University of Kansas School of Law, served as interim director from October 2003 to September 2004, prior to the arrival of Lacy.

[12] Lacy took a temporary leave of absence from the institute to work on the presidential campaign of former Senator Fred Thompson and returned to his role as director in the spring of 2008.

[13] The Exterior of the building features a path leading to the main entrance which is paved with commemorative bricks, many of which are dedicated in memory of World War II veterans.

Other external features include Polly's Pond and the Kansas State Seal.The Darby Gallery is the main lobby of the Dole Institute.

The room hosts an independent exhibit featuring the 1976 presidential election and serves as a forum for many of the smaller events at the Dole Institute.

Their events have featured prominent national journalists like Alex Burns, David Weigel, Josh Dawsey, Nicholas Fandos, Seung Min Kim, and Dave Wasserman.

Other guests have included Kathleen Sebelius, Matthew Dowd, Lee Epstein, Jeff Roe, Johanna Maska, Newt Gingrich, Derek Schmidt and many more.

The recipient must demonstrate their commitment to public service by supporting and growing student culture; embracing opportunities to bridge education with future goals; and participating in civic engagement.