A Civic Rite of Passage for Every Young Person?

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?

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.

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

This event hosted by the Harvard Graduate School of Education and is co-sponsored by the Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation.

Event Attendance & Registration

Askwith Education Forums are accessible, free, and open to the public unless otherwise noted. Registration is required. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early for seating, to engage with the community, and to enjoy light refreshments before the Forum.

Virtual registrants will receive a Zoom link the day before the event.

An invitation to speak at the Harvard Graduate School of Education does not imply an endorsement of the speaker’s views or values by HGSE, Harvard University, or members of its community.

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