Award-winning author and political commentator Steve Roberts will discuss "How Washington Works -- or Doesn't" on Thursday, Feb. 20, at 7 p.m. in the Recital Hall of the Thomas W. and Robin W. Edwards College of Humanities and Fine Arts. The event, which is sponsored by HTC, is free and open to the public.

Roberts, a journalist for nearly 50 years, will probe controversial issues and trends facing President Barack Obama and the nation. The discussion will cover issues such as where Americans live and how that influences how they vote; he'll also delve into the rising role played by outside pressure groups and media outlets that emphasize conflict over conciliation and reward the loudest voices with money and attention.

Roberts has written four books, most notably "My Fathers' Houses" and "From This Day Forward." He has received many awards for covering politics, including the Dirksen award and the Aspen Institute Public Service Sector Award.

Roberts, who is married to author and political analyst Cokie Roberts, earned a bachelor's degree in government from Harvard University. He was a senior writer at U.S. News & World Report and continues to contribute articles. He is frequently featured on National Public Radio and CNN and has appeared on "Hardball with Chris Matthews" on MSNBC. Since 1997, he has taught journalism and political communication at George Washington University's School of Media and Public Affairs.

The Recital Hall is Room 152 of the Edwards College at 133 Chanticleer Drive W. on the Conway campus. Parking is available around the Edwards building and at the adjacent Brittain Hall.

Call Steven Bleicher, associate dean of the Edwards College, at 843-349-6472 for more information.