Cornell Launches Civic Education Program for High School Students

A new initiative at Cornell University aims to enhance civic engagement among high school students through a grant from the Teagle Foundation. This program, titled Knowledge for Freedom, will provide students with valuable insights into civic education and pathways to higher education. The pilot will take place this summer, engaging participants from six local high schools in a two-week series of classes focused on classic texts of political thought, complemented by ongoing mentorship from Cornell students.

The program is spearheaded by Alexander Livingston, an associate professor of government in the College of Arts & Sciences, alongside Liz Millhollen, associate director of pre-college opportunity programs at the David M. Einhorn Center for Community Engagement. According to Livingston, the initiative arose from a need to address civic education during what he describes as a moment of “democratic crisis and backsliding,” a situation that he views as relevant both in the United States and globally.

Livingston emphasized the importance of equipping a new generation of scholars: “We want to help equip a new generation of scholars to think about the meaning of democracy and how to more fully become engaged citizens in public life.” The program not only focuses on academic learning but also aims to foster a deeper understanding of civic responsibilities among participants.

Students enrolled in the Cornell Upward Bound program will be the first to experience this new offering. The initiative reflects Cornell’s commitment to civic education, which is increasingly vital in today’s political landscape. By involving local high school students, the university hopes to create a ripple effect of engagement and awareness within the community.

As the summer pilot approaches, both Livingston and Millhollen are optimistic about the potential impact of the program. They believe that by instilling a sense of civic duty and critical thinking in these young individuals, they can contribute to a more informed and engaged citizenry.

With this initiative, Cornell University aims not only to educate but also to inspire future leaders who are capable of navigating the complexities of democratic participation in an evolving world. The program’s success may pave the way for broader civic education efforts in the future, underscoring the university’s role in shaping an informed public.