Austin Community College’s Center for Public Policy and Political Studies will host its annual fundraiser luncheon Thursday, May 23, from noon to 1 p.m. at the Hilton Austin (500 E. 4^th St).

Tom Pauken

This year’s keynote speaker is Tom Pauken, former chair of the Texas Workforce Commission, which works closely with ACC to ensure students are being trained to fill the needs of the workforce. Pauken also served on President Ronald Reagan’s White House staff and was director of the ACTION agency.

“This event is a great way to be an advocate for the center and to meet the students who benefit from the center’s many activities,” says Peck Young, CPPPS director. “Every net dollar raised will support the growth of CPPPS in the coming years.”

During the fundraiser, State Rep. Donna Howard will receive the 2013 “Building Tomorrow’s Leaders Award” for her efforts to support the interests of Texas college students and higher education institutions.

CPPPS, the nation’s first nonprofit public policy center at a community college, encourages students’ political and civic engagement through programs, internships, and conferences.

To purchase fundraiser tickets or for more information, visit austincc.edu/CPPPS or contact Maxine Kaplan at 223.7050 ([email protected]).