Description
As we reflect on the United States' 250th anniversary and explore today’s deep political division and growing social fragmentation, helping young people build civic understanding, connection, and a sense of agency feels increasingly urgent — and increasingly difficult.
But what if every graduating high school senior in America spent a week in a part of the country completely different from the place they call home?
Across the country, bold ideas are emerging, including American Exchange Project, the nation's first domestic exchange program. Join us for a conversation about what it takes to create meaningful civic experiences and rites of passage — from the earliest years through adulthood — that prepare every young person for lifelong democratic engagement. Together, we’ll explore innovative approaches to helping young people bridge differences, understand the diverse communities that make up our country, and see themselves as active participants in our shared democratic future.
Welcome: Martin West, Academic Dean and Henry Lee Shattuck Professor of Education, Harvard Graduate School of Education
Moderator: Rob Watson, Executive Director, The EdRedesign Lab, and Lecturer on Education, Harvard Graduate School of Education
Speakers:
- Danielle Allen, James Bryant Conant University Professor, Harvard University; Director, Allen Lab for Democracy Renovation, Harvard Kennedy School; and Founding Director, Democratic Knowledge Project, Harvard Graduate School of Education
- Allonah Ashworth, Alum, American Exchange Project; Prairie View A&M University, B.A. May 2026
- David McCullough III, Co-founder and CEO, American Exchange Project
- Jessica Osei, Alum, American Exchange Project; Towson University, expected B.S. May 2028
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