The Jan. 8 shooting near Tucson, Ariz., that injured U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords and cost Chief U.S. District Judge John Roll his life was a tragic reminder of the sacrifices public officials make in the name of public service. In their efforts to be accessible to their constituents, public leaders also make themselves vulnerable to those who disagree with their views or may otherwise wish to do them harm.

The Sue Shear Institute for Women in Public Life at the University of Missouri–St. Louis will hold a panel discussion on the topic at noon tomorrow (March 11) in Century Room A in the Millennium Student Center at UMSL. “Statehouse Sisters – The Risks and Rewards of a Life in Public Service: Are They Worth It?” will feature four panelists of Missouri women leaders: Sen. Maria Chappelle-Nadal, Rep. Jamilah Nasheed, Rep. Jeanette Mott Oxford and Rep. Vicki Schneider.

The discussion is free and open to the public. Call 314-516-4727 for more information.