Friday, February 2

• Panel Discussion 2:30 p.m

“Sports in a Democratic Society”

What is the role of sports in a democratic society, and how does democratic society influence how sport is experienced and delivered?

Panelists:

• Craig Benzel ’86, director of marketing and corporate sales for the Green Bay Packers
• Uri Berliner, sports director for National Public Radio
• Pamela Noakes, executive director of the National Association for Girls and Women in Sport

Moderator:

• Kent Timm ’81, Ph.D., DPT, Clinic Director, Bay City Sport and Spine

This panel will consider the larger role of sports in the civic life of our democratic community. In what ways does or should the conduct of collegiate and professional sports reflect and/or influence the conduct of our public discourse and behavior? Do educational institutions have a particular responsibility to ensure that their athletic programs embody and promote democratic values? Can education provide ethical leadership or at least help the public to define and develop it? To what extent are professional sports deserving of governmental support for new stadiums, etc.? Do athletics provide an important outlet for “tribal,” i.e. local and regional, pride or animosity? Is there a role for ethical leadership in the conduct of sports?