About the Institute

Mission

The USC Schwarzenegger Institute for State and Global Policy is committed to advancing post-partisanship, where leaders put people over political parties and work together to find the best ideas and solutions to benefit the people they serve. The Institute seeks to influence public policy and public debate in finding solutions to the serious challenges we face.

The Importance of Post-Partisanship

The USC Schwarzenegger Institute strongly believes that our country is at its best when we put what’s best for the people over what’s best for politics.

The Power of People and Innovation

The USC Schwarzenegger Institute understands that great innovation and great solutions rarely come from government, but rather from individuals, entrepreneurs, and the community. The Schwarzenegger Institute is dedicated to seeking out these people, organizations, businesses, entrepreneurs, and ideas.

Guiding Principles

Whether at the Institute’s symposiums and summits, or in the academic research conducted to support the Institute, the following principles will guide its work in seeking solutions to the important public policy issues of the day:

  • Science and evidence have an important role to play in finding solutions
  • Local solutions are often the best means to solve global problems
  • Great innovation and great solutions rarely come from government, but rather from individuals, entrepreneurs, and the community
  • Future leaders, including students and young people, must help shape the solutions for our future

Policy Areas

While the Institute focuses on a variety of critical policy areas, Governor Schwarzenegger’s state and global leadership in addressing climate change reflects his recognition of this being one of the defining issues of our generation. The Institute is proud to continue this important work, as well as engage in the following policy areas: