Higher education association lobbying: grassroots outreach as a signal of constituent opinion

Bennett, Stacy

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/34402 Copy

Description

Title

Higher education association lobbying: grassroots outreach as a signal of constituent opinion

Author(s)

Bennett, Stacy

Issue Date

2012-09-18T21:15:11Z

Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)

Delaney, Jennifer A.

Doctoral Committee Chair(s)

Delaney, Jennifer A.

Committee Member(s)

• Baber, Lorenzo D.
• Ikenberry, Stanley O.
• Trent, William T.

Department of Study

Educ Policy, Orgzn & Leadrshp

Discipline

Ed Organization and Leadership

Degree Granting Institution

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Degree Name

Ph.D.

Degree Level

Dissertation

Keyword(s)

• higher education lobbying
• lobbying tactics
• membership mobilization
• signaling theory, grassroots

Abstract

This study sought to gain a better understanding of lobbying by the major DC-based higher education associations. To understand this phenomenon, this study looked at the lobbying tactics used by the associations and how they decide on what lobbying tactics to use. A qualitative, multiple case study approach was used with a sample comprised of association representatives and Congressional staffers. Overall, associations used a variety of tactics, but the for-profit association used more tactics and used all tactics more intensely compared to the non- profit associations. Particular focus was given to the tactic of membership mobilization using a signaling theory framework. Signaling theory explained why membership mobilization is an effective tactic because it signals to legislators that constituents care about an issue and could cause re-election consequences.

Graduation Semester

2012-08

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http://hdl.handle.net/2142/34402

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2012 Stacy Bennett

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