Seminar on Combating Gun Violence Through Policy and Prevention

Overview

This two-day seminar from the James A. Baker III Policy Leadership Program is offered through the Baker Institute Firearm Injury Prevention and Safety (FIPS) program, which is focused on firearm policy in the United States.

Participants will explore the history of firearm policy, common methods of analysis employed by researchers and policymakers to assess the issue, levers of change that can influence firearm legislation, and how to deploy high-impact strategies to effect positive outcomes.

With instruction from leading experts from Houston and across the U.S., participants will gain a deeper understanding of firearm policy, the ability to conduct a stakeholder analysis around gun violence prevention and safety policies, and skills to engage media across various platforms.

Session Date: June 4–5, 2025

Enrollment Deadlines:
Early registration: May 10, 2025
Regular registration: June 2, 2025

Location: Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy (hybrid option available)

Tuition:
Early registration: $500
Regular registration: $750

Program Manager: Hitkarsh Kumar

Curriculum

The History of US Firearm Policy

Through an exploration of the pivotal moments that shaped the current landscape of firearm policy, participants will analyze the constitutional, social, and political factors that have influenced gun rights throughout American history. Understanding this history is essential for framing the current debates and crafting informed, effective policy responses to gun violence in our homes, on our streets and in our schools.

Conducting Gun Policy Analysis and Shaping High-Impact, Evidence-Based Strategies

Policymakers and researchers use practical tools and methodologies for conducting policy analysis, which involves identifying key policy issues, understanding the impacts of firearm legislation, and utilizing data to assess the effectiveness of current laws. Participants will critically evaluate proposed policies and make evidence-based recommendations. Various levers of influence, including political ideologies, interest groups, public opinion, and the role of lobby organizations, will be central to our study. Participants will learn to develop actionable strategies to impact firearm policy, including the use of advocacy tactics, campaigns, and legislative action. This session will have a heavy emphasis on media strategies used in public health advocacy.

Instructors

Eric Fleegler, M.D., M.P.H.
Senior Research Investigator, Massachusetts General Hospital Gun Violence Prevention Center

Christopher F. Kulesza, Ph.D.
Scholar in Child Health Policy, Baker Institute

Sandra McKay, M.D.
Huffington Fellow in Child Health Policy, Baker Institute

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the program?

Participants will meet from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm for an intensive two-day seminar. Catered lunch will be provided.

What will I work on throughout the program?

Participants will examine the history of firearm policy and the factors that influence firearm legislation, learn how to conduct policy analysis, and become equipped with media strategies to effect change.

Who should register?

The ideal participant for this seminar is a practitioner, researcher, advocate, nonprofit professional, or decision-maker with significant experience in firearm injury prevention. This may include public and mental health practitioners, educators, physicians, law enforcement, or suicide prevention advocates.

Please include contact information and your area of interest on the registration form. There is no registration fee.

What are the program benefits?

Participants who complete the program will earn:

A certificate of completion demonstrating satisfactory fulfillment of program requirements and skills.*
Significant networking, research, and collaboration opportunities with Baker Institute experts and affiliated partners, as well as other participants.
Media skills applicable beyond firearm policy.

*Participation in the Seminar on Combating Gun Violence Through Policy and Prevention does not satisfy credits needed for a Rice University academic degree program.