2026 Civic Leadership Institute
2026 Civic Leadership Institute:
Revisiting the Founding Principles at 250 Years of the American Experiment
The Civic Leadership Institute (CLI) is an in-person program at ASU's Tempe Campus.
Students will engage with master teachers, scholars, and each other to learn more about our founding documents.
The founding principles and civic virtues provide a framework for understanding how to best work together in our communities. Explore the fundamental American principles in the U.S. Declaration of Independence and Constitution—such as liberty, equality, constitutionalism, and democracy—and connect them to community engagement and responsible citizenship.
There is no attendance fee, and participants who complete the course will receive a certificate of completion.
Daily lunch and snacks are provided.
Please note this is a day camp, there is no overnight accommodations provided.
Eligibility + Application Information
The Civic Leadership Institute is designed for high school students interested in American civics, government, and history who are committed to their communities and have the academic potential to succeed in a rigorous, college-like environment. Eligible applicants will be rising high school freshman, sophomores, juniors, or seniors with a minimum of 2.75 GPAs. Statewide representation (geographic diversity) is also a consideration in student selection. Applicants will be selected based on academic achievement, drawn from these materials, and including the following criteria:
Ensure you have a copy of your unofficial transcripts and a letter of recommendation before starting your application, as both are required.
One of the following is required:
- Academic achievement evidenced by cumulative GPA and success in relevant coursework (e.g., American History or Government) - minimum grade of B in all high school history or government classes taken to date.
- A letter of recommendation is required with your application if you have less than a B in history or government.
And
A statement of interest should be no more than 250 words. Please tell us why you want to attend the Civic Leadership Institute and what you hope to get from the experience.
Applications will open January 5, 2026. Check back!
"I really believe I majorly benefitted from getting taught by actual professors, and being able to divide into groups to discuss different topics helped me obtain a far more complex understanding of different perspectives."
-Christina, 2023 Participant