By KELSEY WICK
Tiger Media Network
Earlier this month, the American Democracy Project began its fall semester with a kickoff meeting in the Memorial Union. The event brought together students, faculty, and staff to hear from university leaders and project coordinators. This year’s theme is “Introducing the Creative Citizen”, designed to promote civic engagement, public dialogue, and democratic responsibility among students.
Jill Arensdorf, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, opened the event by sharing her experience at FHSU and her early involvement with the Center for Civic Leadership. She noted that FHSU joined ADP in 2003 through a partnership with the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU).
Arensdorf outlined four academic priorities that align with ADP’s goals: Engaging with the region, Supporting student success, Encouraging global citizenship, and Promoting experiential learning. She emphasized that student success includes preparing students to be active members of their communities.
David Macey, dean of the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, spoke about the current state of public discourse. He noted that civic spaces are becoming more divided and that ADP provides a space for respectful conversation. He quoted Alexis de Tocqueville and William Ellery Channing to support the importance of protecting individual rights and encouraging open dialogue.
Lori Kniffin, director of Civic Learning and Engagement, described her experience volunteering at a shelter during an alternative spring break trip to Fort Worth, Texas. She explained how the experience altered her understanding of leadership and emphasized the importance of reflection and collaboration with community partners.
Amber Nickell, assistant professor of History and internationalization coordinator, spoke about growing up in rural Colorado and how international travel helped her overcome her fear of unfamiliar places. She said that learning about other cultures helped her develop empathy and a broader view of citizenship.
Looking ahead, the American Democracy Project at FHSU will offer lectures, service projects, and events throughout the year. The goal is to help students become informed and engaged participants in civic life.
Arensdorf closed with a reminder: “Our heart is to serve our region—and our region expands across the globe.”
ADP’s first event is on Wednesday. Associate Professor of Political Science Jay Steinmetz will discuss the US Constitution and the ideological motivations and influences of its framing. The presentation will take place at 12 p.m. on Wednesday in the Memorial Union Stouffer Lounge.