He will teach and speak on campus, continue two ongoing book projects, convene conversations with local and national leaders on issues facing U.S. cities and advance the archives as a resource for community leaders, researchers and students.
“Former Mayor Ballard’s role continues a University of Indianapolis tradition of working closely with city leaders,” said UIndy President Robert L. Manuel. “He’s been a vital partner in UIndy’s efforts to enhance the quality of life in our own neighborhood and throughout Indianapolis.”
UIndy’s history of mayoral collaboration has deep roots. All four of Ballard’s immediate predecessors – Richard Lugar, William Hudnut, Stephen Goldsmith and Bart Peterson – have served on the university’s board of trustees and entrusted their official papers and other materials to the archives.
Lugar taught at UIndy before running for the U.S. Senate, and his annual symposium for Indiana high school students at the university will mark its 40th anniversary this year.