McClure Center

McClure Center impact areas

Inspired by Senator and Louise McClure’s legacy, University of Idaho’s James A. and Louise McClure Center for Public Policy Research produces independent, neutral research with integrity and defines new standards of excellence and impact in Idaho and beyond.

Over the past 18 years, the McClure Center has heightened public discourse around policy making, published evidence-based research that contributes to a strong democracy, engaged students in learning about public policy making, and championed a collaborative approach to tough problems.

The McClure Center is based in Boise, across from the Idaho State Capitol.

Research

The McClure Center conducts and publishes research on public policy and public affairs issues that impact the state, the region and the nation.

All McClure Center publications contain no policy recommendations.

Learn about McClure Center research.

Events

McClure Center events seek to communicate information to broad audiences across the state in an accessible manner, stimulate public discourse, and inform public dialogue and policy through presentations, formal events, smaller informal events, and more. Many have strong connections with democracy, law, civics, and civil discourse.

Engage in an event near you.

Facilitation

The McClure Center convenes and collaborates with broad groups of stakeholders and rightsholders, empowering and facilitating enduring approaches to pressing challenges. We serve as a neutral facilitator.

Learn more about our facilitation work.

Science policy

The McClure Center in committed to initiatives that connect science and public policy and advance the science policy ecosystem in Idaho.

Learn more about our programs.

Student programs

Our applied learning and research experiences connect policy with journalism, research, international studies and water—in Boise, across the state and in Washington, D.C

Find student engagement opportunities.

Who we are

University of Idaho’s James A. and Louise McClure Center for Public Policy Research was launched in 2007 and has become Idaho's most trusted and preeminent public policy research entity. Based in Boise, the McClure Center addresses policy issues of importance to Idaho and the region.

McClure legacy

Jim and Louise McClure met when they joined the U of I choral group, the Vandaleers, and built a life of public service rooted in intellect, music and deep Idaho ties. Jim served in the U.S. Senate for 18 years, while Louise played a vital role in diplomacy, arts advocacy and civic leadership. Together, they championed education, policy and the public good — leaving a legacy that lives on through the McClure Center.

Learn more about Jim | Learn more about Louise

Make a gift

Support student programs and independent, nonpartisan research. Your support leads to high-quality hands-on learning experiences for students, evidence-based research and helping to address some of Idaho’s greatest challenges. Your generosity is instrumental in making the work of the McClure Center possible.

"We make the future by what we do today. University of Idaho offers a place where minds can expand, where ideas take root, and where people grow. Those of us who have enjoyed the benefits of a free and educated society have the responsibility to provide opportunities for succeeding generations."

— James A. McClure

There are many ways to give to the McClure Center for Public Policy Research. Please contact mcclurecenter@uidaho.edu or 208-364-4549 with any questions.

Make a gift