9 a.m. to Noon

Registration, Sherman Center lobby

10 a.m.

Tribute to Sen. George McGovern
Dr. Robert Duffett, Dakota Wesleyan University president
“Change the World” by Eric Clapton
      Performed by the DWU Highlanders; Clinton Desmond, director
Polarizing Politics: Launching a Discussion
      Donald Simmons, Director, McGovern Center
Session I – Beginning with President Washington’s Farewell Address: Reflections on America’s Partisan Political Past
      Sean Flynn, Professor of History at Dakota Wesleyan University

11 a.m.

Session II – Why Can’t We Be Friends?: Partisan Hearts and Minds
 Ben Nesselhuf, chairman of the South Dakota Democratic Party, and
Tony  Post, executive director of the South Dakota Republican Party;
John E. Miller, moderator

Noon

Film presentation: “Social Media and the 2012 Election” (Courtesy C-SPAN Television)
Howard Kurtz and Lauren Ashburn talk about the role of social media during the 2012 presidential campaign and answer questions from viewers. They will also discuss media coverage and the significance of the presidential debates.
Lunch and Author Autograph Session
Presenters on today’s program will be available to autograph their books and films available on sale in the lobby of the Sherman Center.
Box lunches available
(advance payment with conference registration required)

1 p.m.

Session III – Getting Back on Track: Former Members of Congress Discuss How The Nation Can Get Beyond the Partisanship
The Honorable Gil Gutknecht (R-Minn.)
The Honorable Max Sandlin (D-Texas);
Dusty Johnson, moderator

2 p.m.

Session IV – What Role Does the Media Play Partisan Politics?
     Seth Tupper, The Daily Republic, Mitchell
     Jonathon Ellis, Argus Leader, Sioux Falls
     Denise Ross, The Daily Republic, Mitchell
     Cara Hetland, South Dakota Public Broadcasting
     Greg McCurry, moderator

3 p.m.

Session V – What Does the Future Hold?
Kara Schweitzer, moderator