OLC - Renewing American Democracy: Empowering Civic Engagement through Higher Education

Join us for an insightful webinar that delves into Complete College America’s white paper, Complete College, America: Harnessing the Power of Higher Education to Renew American Democracy. This session will explore actionable strategies for colleges and universities to prepare students for active, informed participation in civic life. We’ll discuss how faculty, staff, and administrators can enhance civic engagement through curriculum development, on-campus programming, community partnerships, and experiential learning opportunities. By fostering environments that encourage volunteerism, service, and civic-minded careers, higher education institutions can play a pivotal role in strengthening democracy.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the Interconnection: Recognize the intrinsic link between higher education and a robust democracy, emphasizing the role institutions play in promoting civic engagement.
• Actionable Strategies: Learn practical steps to integrate civic learning into curricula, develop impactful on-campus programs, and establish partnerships with community organizations to provide students with real-world civic experiences.
• Addressing Inequities: Explore methods to ensure all students, regardless of background, have access to civic learning and democratic engagement opportunities, thereby promoting equity and inclusivity.
• Holistic Education Vision: Embrace a comprehensive approach to education that combines academic learning with civic responsibility, preparing students not only for the workforce but also for active citizenship.
• Institutional Commitment: Understand the importance of institutional investment in public colleges and universities as engines of social mobility and democratic renewal, and how policy reforms can support these efforts.

Intended Audience: 

This webinar is essential for educators, administrators, policymakers, and anyone interested in the vital role of higher education in fostering an engaged and informed citizenry.