Writing for the Public Good: Essays from David R. Colburn and Senator Bob Grahm, edited by Steven Noll

Writing for the Public Good presents a selection of over 100 important opinion pieces from David R. Colburn (1942-2019) and Senator Bob Graham, two of the most influential public figures in recent Florida history. Spanning 30 years and addressing a wide variety of topics that continue to be relevant today, these essays show the key role of Florida in modern American life and politics and illustrate the power of civic engagement in tackling issues facing the nation.            
 
Exemplifying public writing that connects with and informs readers everywhere, these pieces appeared as op-eds in outlets including the Miami Herald, the Tampa Bay Times, the Tampa Tribune, the Orlando Sentinel, the New York Times, the Washington Post, Politico, and Time. With style, intelligence, and thoughtfulness, Colburn and Graham examine subjects including the economy, race relations, public education, the environment, national intelligence, and international affairs. They look to history to give context to the social problems of today, and they point forward to constructive solutions that center on the role of citizen activism.
 
Together, these essays chart the history of modern Florida, reflecting the state’s rise to a Sunbelt powerhouse that is often at the center of national conversations. Colburn and Graham challenge readers to consider and discuss different perspectives on current issues and, above all, to respond. Readers will come away with renewed hope that their actions can make a difference to improve society and will be inspired to work for a better tomorrow.  
 
Steven Noll is master lecturer in history and affiliate faculty member of the Bob Graham Center for Public Service at the University of Florida. He is coauthor of Ditch of Dreams: The Cross Florida Barge Canal and the Struggle for Florida’s Future. David R. Colburn served in many roles at the University of Florida, including as provost and senior vice president, professor of history, and director of the Bob Graham Center for Public Service. He is the author of From Yellow Dog Democrats to Red State Republicans: Florida and Its Politics since 1940. Senator Bob Graham (1936–2024) served the state of Florida for nearly four decades as first a state legislator, then governor, and finally a three-term U.S. Senator. In 2006 he created the Bob Graham Center for Public Service at the University of Florida to continue his legacy of leadership and train the next generation of Sunshine State leaders.