MARQUETTE, Mich. — Sen. Carl Levin will give a presentation at Northern Michigan University titled “Public Service: The Heart of Democracy.” The event begins at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, March 20, in Reynolds Recital Hall. It is free and open to the public.

Levin was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1978 and has been re-elected five times. He is widely regarded as one of the nation’s most respected leaders, being named to TIME magazine’s top 10 best senators list in 2006. He is at the forefront of policy making on national security, a powerful voice for equality and justice and a fighter for economic fairness. He currently serves as chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.

Levin has said his top priority is the economic well-being of Michigan families. He has been a consistent voice for support of American manufacturing by being one of the Senate’s strongest advocates for policies that would help American manufacturers compete globally.

Another signature issue is protecting Michigan’s diverse natural environment. As co-chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force, he has fought to protect Michigan’s signature natural resource. His work has included support for Great Lakes harbors; efforts to increase funding for Great Lakes environmental restoration; and preservation of the natural, historical and cultural legacy of the lakes, including historic lighthouses. He has played a leading role in helping found the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary and Keweenaw National Historic Park and in legislation to preserve Michigan wilderness areas.

The senator will visit campus as part of the NMU President’s Critical Issues Conversations series. “We are honored to have Sen. Levin speak at NMU,” said NMU President David Haynes.  “Having one of America’s most respected senators and leaders visit campus is a great opportunity for our students and the Marquette community. Sen. Levin’s expertise in public policy-making, international affairs and military affairs is renowned. We are fortunate and excited to have him before he completes his final term as a U.S. Senator.”